Scenic Route – Nuns Valley Tour

Planning a trip to Madeira and looking to see some of the island’s most dramatic scenery? Then this Nuns Valley Tour from Funchal might be just what you’re after. It’s a well-reviewed, budget-friendly option that offers a snapshot of Madeira’s natural beauty, complete with scenic stops and a knowledgeable guide. While it’s not a full-day adventure, the three-hour trip packs in enough stunning vistas and charming villages to make it worth considering.

What we really like about this tour is how it’s kept intimate — with a maximum group size of just 15 people, you won’t be lost in a crowd. The views from Pico dos Barcelos and Eira do Serrado are genuinely breathtaking, and the historical tidbits about Nuns Valley add an interesting layer to the scenery. On the flip side, if you’re expecting a lot of time at each stop or a detailed exploration of the village itself, you might find things a little rushed. Still, for those seeking a taste of Madeira’s rugged landscapes without breaking the bank, this tour hits the right notes.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate gorgeous viewpoints, like learning about local history, and want a fuss-free way to see Madeira’s highlights. It’s especially good if you’re short on time but still want to get a good sense of the island’s natural drama.

Key Points

• Affordable and well-reviewed at just around $26.65 per person, offering good value.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics straightforward.
• Small group size means a more personalized experience and better interaction with guides.
• Three carefully curated stops deliver some of the best views in Madeira.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights and friendly service.
• Limited time at each stop means you’ll see a lot, but not get deep into each spot.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting at Pico dos Barcelos

Your adventure kicks off at the Miradouro Pico dos Barcelos, perched 355 meters above Funchal. Here, you’ll get a panoramic view of the city and the bay — a classic Madeira vista that’s worth every minute. The viewpoint is on the edge of Funchal, so it’s a great spot to take photos. Expect around 15 minutes here. From reviews, it’s clear this is a favorite for many visitors, with one traveler describing the view as ‘magnificent.’ The only caution might be the weather, as some mention it can be showery, so packing a rain jacket isn’t a bad idea.

Eira do Serrado – The Overlook of Curral das Freiras

Next stop is Eira do Serrado, often called the ‘bird’s-eye view’ of Nuns Valley. Sitting at 1093 meters, this is where you’ll gaze down into the horseshoe-shaped valley that’s surrounded by towering peaks. It’s an eye-popping sight, especially with the terraced fields used for fruit, wine, and vegetables. The sheer cliffs and serrated peaks make for a dramatic backdrop. Expect about 30 minutes here, giving you plenty of time to soak in the views and snap photos.

One review notes, “The views have three sheer sides that cut into the serrated peaks of Madeira,” emphasizing just how jaw-dropping this spot is. It’s a spot that seems to be a favorite among travelers for its “spectacular vistas,” and many appreciate how the guide explains the geography, clarifying that Madeira’s shape was formed by rivers, not volcanoes.

The Village of Nuns Valley – Curral das Freiras

Finally, the tour takes you into the village of Nuns Valley. This small settlement was founded in the 16th century by nuns fleeing pirate attacks, giving it its name. The village itself is simple but steeped in history, with its center sitting on a little rise amid the valley. Here, you’ll get around 30 minutes — enough to walk around, enjoy a coffee, or buy some local crafts.

Guides often share stories about the village’s origins, making it more than just a scenic stop. One reviewer mentioned that the guide ‘explained a lot about the area,’ which added a nice human element to the views. And while you’re there, you’ll be able to appreciate the terraced fields and towering peaks encircling the settlement, which truly highlight Madeira’s rugged charm.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour is conducted in a comfortable air-conditioned minivan, which makes for a relaxed journey between viewpoints. Group size is limited to 15 or fewer people, creating a friendly, intimate atmosphere. Pickup and drop-off are included in Funchal and Canico, and there’s an option to upgrade for cruise port pickups, simplifying your day.

Because it’s a small-group experience, you’ll often find that the stops are longer and more relaxed compared to larger tours. Travelers frequently note that the guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to answer questions. One review praised a guide named Roy for his “lots of information about the trip,” highlighting how the personal touch can really make a difference.

Timing and Duration

At just about three hours, the tour is quick but feels well-paced. Each stop is timed to maximize your experience without feeling rushed. During reviews, multiple travelers mentioned that the stops are long enough to enjoy the scenery and take photos, yet succinct enough to keep the group moving smoothly.

Cost and Value

At roughly $26.65 per person, this tour delivers respectable value. Compared to full-day excursions or private options, it’s budget-conscious but still offers many highlights. The included hotel pickup and knowledgeable guide add to the experience, making it a no-fuss way to see Madeira’s stunning landscapes. The price may seem modest, but reviews consistently mention the “good value” and “interesting tour,” especially given the views and insights provided.

What Travelers Say

Reading through reviews, it’s clear this tour has a lot of fans. Many mention how “friendly” and “knowledgeable” the guides are, with one even saying the guide was “the best” they’ve seen. The views get rave reviews: “Stunning,” “beautiful,” “amazing scenery” — these are common phrases from happy travelers. Several reviewers appreciated the way the guide explained the geography and history, adding context to the scenery.

One traveler noted that the stops offer “a few timely moments to explore,” emphasizing that the balanced timing allowed for photos, coffee breaks, and soaking in the sights. The flexibility and intimacy of the small group are also often highlighted. A visitor remarked, “Our guide, who spoke both English and German, made us feel very comfortable,” which speaks to the well-managed experience.

However, not all reviews are glowing. A couple expressed disappointment about the limited attractions at the final village, noting there’s not much to do beyond enjoying the view and a cafe. Others mentioned that waiting in the van for pickups could be a little uncomfortable, especially on warm days, so packing water or a fan might help.

Noteworthy Tips from Reviews

• Pack a rain jacket or umbrella, especially if the weather is showery. The viewpoints are beautiful even in the drizzle.
• Bring some cash for snacks or drinks at the stops, as card payments aren’t always accepted.
• Be prepared for some winding, narrow roads if you’re driving the scenic route yourself — the tour guides do this regularly and handle it well.
• The stops at viewpoints are long enough for photographs and a quick walk, but don’t expect a deep exploration of each site.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a short but stunning introduction to Madeira’s natural beauty, this tour offers a great balance. It’s perfect for travelers who value spectacular vistas, friendly guides, and good value. The small-group setting makes it more personal, and the stops at Pico dos Barcelos, Eira do Serrado, and Nuns Valley are some of the most memorable spots on the island.

It’s especially suited for those who prefer a relaxed pace and want to avoid long, tiring excursions. If you’re on a tight schedule but still want a meaningful glimpse of Madeira’s rugged terrain, this is a solid choice. Just keep in mind that the experience is scenic and informative, but not overly immersive — it’s a quick taste rather than an in-depth exploration.

While the final village doesn’t offer much beyond the view and a café, the overall package delivers enough beauty and insight to make it worthwhile. For travelers seeking a cost-effective, well-reviewed way to enjoy Madeira’s dramatic landscapes, this tour ticks all the right boxes.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included in Funchal and Canico. There’s an option to upgrade for cruise port pickup, making it convenient if you’re docked in Madeira.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is about three hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and stops. It’s a quick but well-paced trip.

What’s the group size?
Groups are limited to 15 or fewer people, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

What should I bring?
It’s a good idea to bring a rain jacket or umbrella in case of showers, and some cash for snacks or drinks at the stops.

Are children allowed?
Children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but keep in mind the duration and the scenic nature of the stops.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

In the end, this Nuns Valley Tour is a solid pick for anyone wanting a taste of Madeira’s incredible scenery without a full-day commitment. It’s well-reviewed, good value, and offers enough stunning vistas and interesting stories to make your trip memorable.