Nun’s Valley

Exploring Nun’s Valley: A Practical Look at this Funchal Tour

If you’re considering a day trip that combines beautiful vistas with a glimpse into local life, the Nun’s Valley tour from Funchal might catch your eye. It’s a fairly straightforward outing, offering a taste of Madeira’s dramatic landscape and a peek at a small, mountain-surrounded village. We haven’t been on it ourselves, but based on reviews and the itinerary, it looks like a solid choice for travelers wanting a relaxed, scenic experience without too much fuss.

What we like about this tour is how accessible and relatively affordable it is, with a price of just over $23 per person. The two viewpoints—Pico dos Barcelos and Eira do Serrado—are highlights, providing spectacular panoramic views of Funchal and the surrounding mountains. Plus, the opportunity to visit the village of Curral das Freiras, with its unique setting and local charm, adds a cultural layer to the adventure.

One thing to keep in mind is that this is a short, 4-hour excursion. If you’re after an in-depth exploration or a more adventurous experience, this might feel a bit light. Also, since it’s a small group (max 16 travelers), the atmosphere could be cozy, but it also means the timing and flow depend on the group’s pace. The tour is well-suited for those who want a relaxed, scenic overview of the area without breaking the bank or overcommitting time.

Key Points

• Affordable and accessible: At just over $23, this tour offers good value for a half-day sightseeing experience.
• Spectacular viewpoints: The stops at Pico dos Barcelos and Eira do Serrado provide some of the best views over Funchal and the island’s mountains.
• Cultural visit: The village of Curral das Freiras gives a glimpse into local life and history, with a charming church and a tasting opportunity.
• Small group size: With a maximum of 16 travelers, expect a more intimate experience, though it might also mean less flexibility.
• Weather-dependent: The tour requires good weather; cancellations due to poor weather are possible, but you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
• No added extras: The price includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle but not WiFi, so plan accordingly.

What the Tour Looks Like in Detail

Starting Point and First Stop: Curral das Freiras

The journey kicks off with a drive into the mountains to Curral das Freiras, a small village famed for its dramatic setting. Surrounded by huge peaks, this little village sits in a volcanic crater, which some believe was formed by erosion rather than volcanic activity. The landscape here is quite striking, with steep slopes and lush greenery creating a picture-perfect backdrop for photos and quiet reflection.

It’s a place that’s not merely scenic but also historically interesting. The village’s church of Santo António is worth a quick visit, and you might get the chance to enjoy a local tasting, depending on how the tour is structured that day. The reviews mention that the village is charming but a bit crowded during the visit, which is understandable given its popularity and the small size of the area.

What you’ll love: The sense of stepping into a mountain hideaway, with views that seem almost unreal.
Downside: It can be crowded, and the tour’s short time here means you won’t have much opportunity to explore deeply.

The Viewpoints: Pico dos Barcelos and Eira do Serrado

Next, the tour takes you to the Pico dos Barcelos viewpoint, perched at 355 meters above the city. Here, the panoramas of Funchal are breathtaking—you’ll see the city’s colorful rooftops, the harbor, and the surrounding sea and mountains all at once. It’s a quick stop (about 20 minutes), but the views are worth it for that perfect photo.

From there, it’s a scenic drive across the mountains to Eira do Serrado, at an impressive 1094 meters elevation. This viewpoint overlooks the entire Curral das Freiras valley, giving you a bird’s-eye perspective of the village below. The landscape here is dramatic, with steep cliffs and lush forests. It’s an ideal spot to pause, take photos, and appreciate Madeira’s rugged terrain.

What you’ll love: The awe-inspiring vistas that capture the essence of Madeira’s mountainous beauty.
Downside: The busy nature of these viewpoints might mean you’re sharing space with other travelers, which can detract from the tranquility.

Returning to Funchal

After soaking in the sights, the tour concludes with a leisurely return to Funchal. You’ll be back in the city in time for dinner or further exploration, with plenty of photos and impressions to cherish.

The Practicalities

Transportation: A key part of the experience is the air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the journey comfortable, especially given Madeira’s sometimes warm climate. Realistically, this is a sightseeing tour rather than an adventure in transportation, so don’t expect off-road vehicles or longer drives.

Group Size: Max 16 travelers keeps things intimate, but it also means you should book in advance—most travelers are booking roughly 10 days ahead, indicating good demand.

Duration: About four hours, making it suitable for those with a tight schedule but wanting a taste of Madeira’s scenic highlights.

Cost and Value: At $23.15, it’s quite affordable for the quality of views and the convenience of a guided trip. While it doesn’t include WiFi, that’s a minor detail considering the overall value and the included transportation and viewpoints.

Weather considerations: The tour’s success depends on good weather; cloudy or rainy days could limit the views or lead to cancellations. The policy allows for free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance, so you can plan with flexibility.

What Our Reviewers Say

The one detailed review available describes the experience as “intéressant” with “Très belles vues sur la vallée.” The visitor appreciated the views and the church in the village, which was “worth a detour” and included a tasting. They noted that the trip was a bit tight in terms of space during transport, but overall, the experience was positive.

This simplicity and directness seem typical of what you can expect: scenic, enjoyable, and straightforward. The tour likely suits those who prefer a relaxed, scenic day without the fuss of longer or more adventurous excursions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to see some of Madeira’s most iconic views, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy photo opportunities and want to avoid overly strenuous outings. It’s also perfect if you prefer a small group experience, where you can get a more personal touch and plenty of chances to ask questions.

However, if you’re after a more immersive or active experience, or if weather might be an issue during your visit, you might want to consider other options. Also, those expecting a full day of sightseeing or multiple stops might find this tour a bit brief.

Final Thoughts

This Nun’s Valley tour offers a simple, scenic, and affordable way to see some of Madeira’s most breathtaking views. It’s well-suited for travelers who want to enjoy a relaxed half-day trip that combines nature, a touch of local culture, and easy transportation. The price point makes it accessible, and the viewpoints are arguably some of the best photo spots on the island.

While the tour’s short duration and limited stops mean it won’t satisfy those craving deeper exploration, it does a good job of capturing the essence of Madeira’s landscape. The experience is straightforward, reliable, and offers a nice balance of nature and culture—ideal for a quick escape from city life and a chance to breathe in the mountain air.

If you’re planning to visit Funchal and want a peaceful, scenic outing that won’t break the bank, this tour could be just the thing. Just remember to check the weather forecast and book ahead to secure your spot for a memorable view-filled afternoon.

FAQ about the Nun’s Valley Tour

Is there pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered, making it convenient to start your day without worrying about transportation to the meeting point.

How long is the tour?
The whole experience lasts approximately 4 hours, perfect for a half-day outing.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 16 travelers, so it stays intimate but might fill up quickly during peak times.

Does the tour include WiFi on board?
No, WiFi is not included, so plan accordingly if you want to stay connected.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance, with full refunds offered if canceled before that window.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the short duration and scenic stops may appeal to older children and teenagers.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended, especially since you’ll be at viewpoints and walking around the village. Don’t forget your camera!

Will the tour be canceled in bad weather?
Yes, the tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How much does the tour cost?
It costs $23.15 per person, which is quite reasonable given the views and experiences included.

All in all, this Nun’s Valley tour feels like a sensible, scenic option for those wanting a taste of Madeira’s remarkable landscape without overextending themselves. It’s ideal for travelers who value comfort, views, and a relaxed pace.