Oldtimer Sightseeing Tour in the West and Northwest

Exploring Madeira in Style: A Detailed Look at the Oldtimer Sightseeing Tour in the West and Northwest

If you’re planning a trip to Funchal and want to see the island’s most scenic spots without the hassle of driving yourself, this Oldtimer Sightseeing Tour might catch your eye. It’s a private, eight-hour adventure that promises a leisurely ride in a charming open-roof classic car, letting you soak in Madeira’s breathtaking landscapes in comfort and style.

What immediately stands out about this tour is how personalized and flexible it seems—your group, your pace, your stops. Also, the reviews highlight the guide’s passion and knowledge, which can turn a good trip into a memorable one. But, as with any sightseeing experience, there are a few things to keep in mind—like the cost per group and some optional entrance fees—that are worth weighing before booking.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love scenic drives paired with striking views, are comfortable with a full-day outing, and appreciate a touch of nostalgia with a classic car experience. If you’re traveling with a small group and crave a private, tailored day exploring Madeira’s rugged west and northwest, this could be a great pick.

Key Points

• Personalized Private Tour: You’ll have your own group and guide, making it more intimate and flexible.
• Comfortable Classic Car: Enjoy the ride in an open-roof vintage vehicle, perfect for sightseeing and photos.
• Varied Itinerary: From charming villages to dramatic cliffs and natural pools, the tour covers Madeira’s diverse landscapes.
• Knowledgeable Guide: Expect friendly, passionate commentary that adds context to each stop.
• Flexible Stops: Some locations are optional or have entrance fees, giving you choices based on your interests.
• Ideal for Scenic Lovers: The route is packed with picture-perfect views, especially of the coast and cliffs.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day in Funchal

The tour kicks off at 9:00am with convenient hotel pickups in Funchal and Caniço, which is a real plus if you’re staying nearby. From the departure point, you’ll hop into a classic open-roof car—a real treat for photography and simply soaking up the vibe. The vehicle’s design makes it easy to enjoy Madeira’s fresh air and stunning scenery without feeling closed in.

First Stop: Câmara de Lobos

Your journey begins in the picturesque village of Câmara de Lobos, a favorite among visitors and locals alike. This charming fishing village offers colorful boats, quaint streets, and a relaxed atmosphere. Your guide will point out the highlights and share tidbits about local life, making this stop more than just a quick photo op.

We’ve read from past guests that their guides are passionate and eager to share Madeira’s stories, which adds a personal touch. You’ll spend about 40 minutes here, with free entry, so feel free to wander and soak in the local vibe.

Next: The Spectacular Cabo Girao

One of the tour’s star attractions is the Cabo Girao skywalk, standing at 589 meters above sea level. This is one of the highest sea cliffs in the world, and the views from the glass platform are breathtaking. You’ll need to pay a small entrance fee (around 3 euros per person), but the photo opportunities and sense of scale are worth it.

The guide will be with you, ensuring you get the best angles and info. While the entrance fee isn’t included, many find the experience well worth the modest cost. It’s a chance to stand on the edge of the world and marvel at Madeira’s rugged coast.

Scenic Drive from Cabo Girao to Ribeira Brava

Traveling along old, charming roads, you’ll pass through rural landscapes and quaint villages. The drive itself is a highlight, giving you a taste of Madeira’s authentic countryside.

Ribeira Brava and Coastal Views

This small town is a peaceful spot to stretch your legs, with another fantastic viewpoint overlooking the southwest coast. The 30-minute stop is free, and it offers a chance to admire the lush landscape and perhaps take some photos of the coastline’s jagged contours.

Cais da Ponta do Sol and Ponta do Sol Beach

Next, you’ll enjoy a visit to the old harbor of Ponta do Sol, a place known for its stunning beaches and warm sun. The optional coffee stop here is popular among guests, who enjoy a break overlooking the ocean. You’ll stay around an hour, giving you enough time to relax or explore briefly.

Driving through Madeira’s Old Roads and Waterfalls

The next stretch is a scenic drive through narrow, winding roads, including tunnels and waterfalls. It’s a scenic journey, and many guests comment on how the scenery changes dramatically—lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and rugged cliffs.

Calheta and Jardim do Mar

The tour continues to Calheta, known for its natural beauty and beaches, and then to Jardim do Mar, famous for surfing. Small but charming, these stops offer a sense of Madeira’s diverse coastal communities. They’re quick visits, with about 20 minutes each, but packed with visual interest.

Historical and Culinary Stops

Paul do Mar, a key fishing village, is noted for its history of tuna fishing and canning. You might find the chimney of the old factory, which is a reminder of the area’s industrious past.

Optional Lunch at Ponta do Pargo and Ponta da Vigia Viewpoint

If you’re hungry or want a break, the optional stop for lunch offers local flavors and stunning views from the cliff-top Ponta da Vigia. It’s an hour-long stop, so plan accordingly.

North Coast: Porto Moniz and Seixal

The highlight of the northern stretch is the Porto Moniz natural swimming pools—crystal-clear lava pools perfect for a quick dip or just enjoying the scenery. Many reviews mention this as a favorite part of the day, thanks to the unique opportunity to swim in natural surroundings.

Seixal Beach follows, often called one of Europe’s best beaches, with its black sand and calm waters. These stops combine fun, relaxation, and incredible scenery.

Final Stops: Sao Vicente

The last stop is Sao Vicente, a small town surrounded by lush valleys and Laurissilva forests. It’s a peaceful way to wind down the day, with about 20 minutes to explore or take photos.

What We Love About This Tour

The personalized aspect really appeals to us. Since it’s a private tour, your group can customize the stops a bit and enjoy a comfortable pace. The guided commentary is a major plus, as it adds context and storytelling, making each location more meaningful. Past guests have raved about their guides’ passion and knowledge, which can transform a sightseeing drive into an engaging experience.

The stunning views along the coast, cliffs, and waterfalls are genuinely breathtaking. Many describe Madeira’s natural beauty as unforgettable, and this tour packs in a variety of those moments. Plus, the classic car adds a nostalgic, fun vibe, especially for those who love vintage vehicles or want a more unique way to explore.

The flexibility to visit or skip certain attractions (like Cabo Girao, which has an entrance fee) means you can tailor your experience. And the inclusion of free pick-up from your hotel makes logistics simple, particularly if you’re staying in Funchal or Caniço.

What to Keep in Mind

The cost per group is around $203.62, which may seem high for some, but considering it covers a full day, private transportation, and a dedicated guide, many find the value fair. If you’re planning to visit multiple locations and enjoy personalized service, it can be a worthwhile splurge.

Some stops, like Cabo Girao, have an entrance fee, so you’ll want to budget a few extra euros. The lunch stop at Ponta do Pargo is optional but offers a chance to enjoy local flavors with a view, which many guests appreciate.

The tour is about eight hours long, so it’s a full day’s commitment, but the pace is relaxed enough to enjoy without feeling rushed. This tour is suitable for most travelers who are comfortable spending several hours on the road and walking around brief stops.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a personalized and scenic Madeira experience, this tour checks many boxes. It’s particularly good for small groups, couples, or friends who want a private day with a knowledgeable guide. If you love vintage cars or historic routes, the open-roof classic vehicle adds a special touch.

It’s also perfect if you’re interested in nature, coastal scenery, and local villages, rather than just hitting the main tourist spots. While not specifically tailored for families, older children and teenagers who enjoy scenic drives might find it engaging—especially if they love cars or outdoor adventures.

FAQs about the Oldtimer Sightseeing Tour

Is transportation included?
Yes, private transportation is included, with free hotel pickups in Funchal and Caniço.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore and relax.

Are there any entrance fees I need to pay?
Some stops, like Cabo Girao, have optional entrance fees (around 3 euros per person). Most other stops are free.

Can I customize the stops or itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with the guide, and they can adapt the stops within the itinerary.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, sunglasses, camera, and perhaps a light jacket for the coastal winds.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, older children who enjoy scenic drives and outdoor views might enjoy it.

What is the price?
It costs approximately $203.62 per group (up to 3 people), which covers the full day and private guide.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of a vintage car experience, personalized guide service, and a varied itinerary that showcases Madeira’s natural beauty and charming villages.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Oldtimer Sightseeing Tour in the West and Northwest offers a charming way to see Madeira’s most stunning scenery without the stress of self-driving. The private nature and passionate guiding make it stand out, especially if you love scenic drives combined with local insights.

It’s a solid choice for travelers who want a full day of relaxed exploration, stunning views, and cultural highlights in a vintage vehicle. While the price might seem on the higher side, many guests feel the experience’s quality and personalization justify it.

If you’re after a memorable, tailored Madeira adventure that combines comfort, scenery, and a touch of nostalgia, this tour could be just what you’re looking for. Just be prepared for a day on the road and some optional entrance fees—those small costs add up but often enhance the experience.

Enjoy your trip, and I hope you find Madeira as magical as many others do!