Visiting local Vineyard With Wine Tasting & Lunch included

An Honest Look at Madeira’s Vineyards & Wine Tasting Tour

If you’re considering exploring Madeira’s famous wines, this local vineyard tour with wine tasting and lunch might just be what you’re after. From what we’ve gathered, it’s a well-reviewed experience that offers a good mix of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and delicious food and drinks.

Two things we really like about this tour are the variety of wines sampled—three whites, one rosé, and two reds—which gives you a nicely rounded tasting experience, and the stunning views you’ll enjoy, especially during the cable car ride and at the vineyards.

One potential consideration is the length of the day, which clocks in at around 8 hours. That’s quite a bit if you prefer more relaxed or shorter excursions, so this might not suit travelers who want a quick overview or have limited mobility.

This tour seems best suited for wine enthusiasts, those wanting a deeper look into Madeira’s wine culture, or travelers who enjoy combining scenic drives with food and drink experiences.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience: Combines vineyard visits, tasting, lunch, and sightseeing.
• Stunning scenery: Expect beautiful vineyard landscapes, coastlines, and a cable car ride.
• Expert guides: Multiple reviews praise knowledgeable, friendly guides who enhance the experience.
• Good value: For around $207.52, you get a full day of varied activities that include transportation, tasting, and meals.
• Flexibility: Vegetarian options are available, and hotel pickup makes it convenient.
• Group size: Usually small groups, making it more personal and engaging.

An In-Depth Look at the Madeira Wine Tour & Lunch

Starting Off in Camara de Lobos

Your day kicks off at Camara de Lobos, a charming fishing village known for its colorful boats and traditional vibe. It’s a quick stop—about 30 minutes—but a sweet introduction to Madeira’s wine-producing regions. From reviews, it’s clear that this initial stop sets the tone for the rest of the day, giving you a glimpse of the local landscape and wine-growing areas.

While not a long stop, it’s a good way to stretch your legs and soak in some authentic scenery before heading further north. No admission fee here, which is a nice bonus, and it’s perfect for quick photo ops and a bit of fresh air.

Faja dos Padres: A Hidden Gem

Next, your journey takes you to Faja dos Padres, a unique spot accessed partly by cable car. The highlight here is the walk around the property—you’re encouraged to explore its exotic fruits, lush plantations, and learn about the area’s stories.

Guests have raved about the peaceful, untouched nature of this place, with one review describing it as “a peaceful and tranquil surroundings at Faja dos Padres,” which makes it a great break from busier tourist spots. The visit lasts about an hour and a half, enough time to appreciate the scenery and perhaps snap some photos of the lush landscape.

The experience here isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s about soaking in the calm and beauty of Madeira’s less commercialized spots. The guided walk and the stories shared by staff make it more engaging than just a quick visit.

Vineyard Tour & Wine Tasting at Sao Vicente

A highlight of the tour is a guided visit to a local winery, paired with a professional enologist who shares insights into Madeira’s wine-making process. Walking through the vineyards, you’ll learn how the grapes are cultivated and what makes Madeira wine so special.

Guests have described this part as “an enjoyable experience for those who enjoy tasting and learning about its production,” noting the excellent wine and delicious traditional tapas provided. The tasting includes a selection of five different local fortified wines, giving you a broad perspective of Madeira’s wine styles.

The guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge are frequently praised, making this part of the day both educational and fun. The inclusion of a “hearty lunch prepared with the freshest local ingredients” at a Madeira Wine Estate adds a culinary dimension that many travelers find memorable. The meal is paired with more wines, which really enhances the flavors and makes the experience feel well-rounded.

Exploring Seixal’s Magnificent Coastline

Post-lunch, the journey takes you to Seixal, a stretch of coastline that offers breathtaking views. Here, you’ll see the expansive sea, vineyards at the foot of slopes, and the famous Laurel Forest at the top.

This area is perfect for a scenic drive and some relaxed sightseeing, with many reviewers mentioning the “fabulous views” and “beautiful sites along the way.” It’s a quiet, picturesque part of the island that lets you really appreciate Madeira’s natural diversity. The stop lasts about an hour, enough to soak in the scenery and maybe take a few photos.

Madeira’s Finest Fortified Wines in Camara de Lobos Again

The day ends back at Camara de Lobos, where you’ll have the chance to taste some of Madeira’s fortified wines from one of the island’s most renowned producers. These wines have earned medals and awards, and the historic wine lodge dating from 1850 is part of the charm.

Guests describe this as “not to be missed,” emphasizing the quality of the wines and the excellent setup of the modern lodge. The tasting here caps off the day, leaving you with a deeper appreciation of Madeira’s wine craftsmanship.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Reviewers frequently mention the knowledgeable guides, especially Susanna, who seems to make the experience lively, personal, and informative. The stunning views during the cable car ride and visits to vineyards are consistently praised, with many describing the scenery as “spectacular” and “breathtaking.”

The variety of wines sampled—including reds, whites, rosés, and fortified wines—means you get a good sense of Madeira’s diverse wine offerings. Coupled with a delicious, locally sourced lunch, it’s a full sensory experience that combines taste, sight, and learning.

The small group sizes (max 30 travelers) promise a more intimate experience, allowing more interaction with guides and fellow travelers. Many reviews highlight the friendly, enthusiastic guides who go above and beyond, even calling ahead to adjust reservations if needed.

Cost & Value

At around $207.52 per person, this tour provides a comprehensive package of transport, tastings, meals, and sightseeing. When you consider the included hotel pickup, cable car ride, multiple vineyard visits, and quality lunch, many would agree it’s a solid value—especially given the positive reviews and excellent ratings.

Who Should Consider This?

This experience is particularly ideal for wine lovers or those curious about Madeira’s viticulture. It also appeals to travelers who enjoy scenic drives and exploring off-the-beaten-path spots like Faja dos Padres. If you’re looking for a full-day, well-organized tour with lots of variety and expert guides, this fits the bill.

However, if you prefer shorter trips or have trouble walking or standing for extended periods, keep in mind the length and walking involved. It’s not a tour for those seeking a quick overview but for those wanting to really get a taste of Madeira’s wine culture.

Final Thoughts

This Madeira vineyard and wine tasting tour offers more than just wine—it’s about experiencing the island’s landscapes, learning from passionate guides, and savoring authentic local flavors. You’ll love the combination of scenic cable car rides, peaceful vineyard walks, and hearty, well-paired meals.

The consistent high ratings and glowing reviews speak to the quality of the experience, especially the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery. For those who want a full, immersive day — especially wine enthusiasts — this is a strong pick.

While it’s a sizable commitment in terms of time and price, most travelers seem to feel it’s worth every cent. It’s a chance to see Madeira’s countryside through a different lens—one filled with lush vineyards, breathtaking coastlines, and excellent wines. If that sounds appealing, go ahead and book this tour; it’s likely to be a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in Funchal, Canico, Camara de Lobos, Ponta do Sol, and Calheta, making logistics easier.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Can I request vegetarian options for lunch?
Yes, vegetarian options are available upon request, so let the guides know beforehand.

What wines will I taste?
You’ll sample 3 white wines, 1 rosé, 2 red wines, and 5 fortified wines, showcasing Madeira’s diverse wine styles.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The description doesn’t specify, but given its full-day nature and walking involved, it’s probably best suited for adults or older children.

What is Faja dos Padres?
It’s a peaceful, scenic spot accessible via cable car, known for its exotic fruits and quiet beauty—perfect for a relaxing walk.

How many people typically join?
Most tours have up to 30 travelers, which balances intimacy with the chance to meet fellow wine lovers.

What’s the price, and is it worth it?
At around $207.52 per person, it includes tastings, lunch, transportation, and activities. Many reviews confirm it offers good value for a full day of experiences.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if needed.

If you’re looking to combine scenic beauty, local culture, and some of Madeira’s best wines, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s a well-rounded choice for a memorable day on the island.