Nuns Valley Tour

Introducing the Nuns Valley Tour: A Slice of Madeira’s Natural Beauty

If you’re considering a day trip to explore the heart of Madeira, the Nuns Valley Tour offers a gentle, scenic journey that highlights some of the island’s most impressive vistas and charming spots. We haven’t taken this tour ourselves, but based on reviews and the itinerary, it promises a relaxed four-hour exploration packed with stunning views and local character.

What we really like about this experience is its focus on panoramic viewpoints like Pico dos Barcelos and Eira do Serrado, which give you incredible photo opportunities and a feel for Madeira’s lush landscape. Plus, the visit to Curral das Freiras, a small, secluded village surrounded by mountains, sounds like a chance to see authentic rural life and sample some delicious local chestnuts.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that no entry tickets are included, so you’ll be paying just for transportation and the guide—not for museum or site admission. This makes it a budget-friendly choice, but it also means you’ll want to be prepared to explore independently at each stop.

This tour suits travelers who love scenic drives, breathtaking views, and local culture, especially if you’re short on time but want a taste of Madeira’s natural beauty. It’s also a good pick if you’re traveling with friends or prefer small groups, as the tour caps at 16 participants.

Key Points

• Scenic viewpoints like Pico dos Barcelos and Eira do Serrado offer panoramic views perfect for photos.
• The focus on natural beauty means you’ll get a close look at Madeira’s lush, mountainous landscape.
• No entrance fees included, so it’s budget-friendly but requires self-exploration at each stop.
• The small group size (max 16 travelers) makes for a more intimate experience.
• The tour is easy to fit into a half-day, ideal for those with limited time.
• Local culture and food are experienced through the village of Curral das Freiras, known for its chestnuts.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The tour kicks off at Pico dos Barcelos, built in 1950, perched at about 355 meters. From this vantage point, you’ll get a sweeping view over Funchal’s bay and the surrounding islands, Desertas included. The vantage point is constructed for visitors, making it easy to enjoy the scenery, and the 45-minute stop gives you plenty of time to take photos or simply soak in the scenery.

Next, you’ll head to Eira do Serrado, a viewpoint that overlooks Curral das Freiras, a tiny mountain village. The 20-minute stop here is brief but sufficient to stand in awe of the green valleys and rugged peaks. It’s a free stop, so your experience will be largely about taking in the view and maybe snapping a few quick pictures.

The heart of the tour is Curral das Freiras itself. This isolated village is surrounded by tall peaks that seem to guard it, and you’ll get to observe the traditional houses, lush farmland, and the simple, rural life of locals. Travelers say the scenery here is truly captivating, especially amid the mist or clouds that often settle over the peaks. Locals grow chestnuts, which are a staple in local cuisine, and you’ll probably notice how the villagers live off their land. The 45-minute stop here allows a decent glimpse into traditional Madeira life and a chance to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

What to Expect When You Book

Transportation is included in the price, which is a big plus for those who want a hassle-free experience. With a maximum of 16 travelers, you’ll find the tour feels more personal than large bus trips, but enough people to keep the atmosphere lively. The start time at 9:00 am caters well to those wanting to make the most of the day without rushing.

Admission tickets are not included, which means you’re paying mainly for the transport and the guide’s insights. The tour is suitable for most travelers, and service animals are allowed—so if you’re traveling with a helper animal, that’s good to know.

Weather can affect the tour — the company reserves the right to change the route depending on conditions, so it’s flexible and safe. Cancelation is free up to 24 hours ahead, which offers some peace of mind if the weather isn’t cooperating.

The Value of This Experience

At just under $29 per person, this tour is quite affordable, especially considering the beautiful vistas and cultural insight it offers. Since no entry fees are included, you could consider bringing some extra cash for snacks or souvenirs at Curral das Freiras. The price is especially attractive given the time commitment—roughly four hours, a manageable half-day outing.

The reviews highlight the quality of the guide’s knowledge and personality, with one reviewer calling it an “entirely enjoyable trip” and praising the guide’s entertaining style. Travelers seem to appreciate the stunning views and the opportunity to see authentic rural Madeira, making it a good pick for those who want a relaxed, scenic overview of the island’s interior.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers and anyone wanting to see Madeira’s mountains and villages without strenuous activity. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want a meaningful glimpse of the island’s landscapes and rural life. It’s also a good choice for small groups who prefer a more personal touch.

If you’re interested in photography, the viewpoints offer plenty of opportunities for memorable shots. If you enjoy local food and culture, the visit to Curral das Freiras provides a taste of traditional life, especially with its famous chestnuts.

This tour might not be the best fit for those who prefer active adventures or in-depth cultural visits, as it’s more about viewing than exploring in detail. Also, since no entrance fees are included, it’s less suited for travelers who want to visit multiple sites with paid attractions—this is more about scenery and local ambiance.

The Sum Up: Is the Nuns Valley Tour Worth It?

In the end, the Nuns Valley Tour offers a quiet, scenic look at Madeira’s breathtaking natural scenery and traditional villages at a very reasonable price. It’s well-suited for travelers who love beautiful views and peaceful rural scenes without the hassle of complicated logistics or lengthy excursions. The small group size and the flexible nature of the tour make it a comfortable way to see some of the island’s most iconic sights.

If you’re after a memorable, picturesque experience that highlights the best of Madeira’s mountains, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially valuable if you want a relaxed pace, friendly guides, and views that will stay with you long after your trip ends.

For those who enjoy a quick but meaningful journey into Madeira’s interior, with a good chance to capture stunning photos and enjoy local charm, the Nuns Valley Tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Does the tour include entrance tickets? No, the tour does not include any entry fees. You’ll be paying just for transportation and the guide, so you might want to bring some cash if you wish to buy souvenirs or snacks at Curral das Freiras.

What is the duration of the tour? The tour lasts about four hours, starting at 9:00 am and ending back at the meeting point.

Is the tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility? Since the stops involve scenic viewpoints that are accessible for most, it should be manageable for most visitors. However, if you have specific mobility concerns, it’s best to check with the provider directly.

Can I cancel the tour if the weather is bad? Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. If weather conditions cause cancellation, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are children allowed on this tour? The information doesn’t specify age restrictions, but given the nature of the stops—mainly sightseeing—it’s generally suitable for all ages. Always check with the provider if you’re traveling with little ones.

How many people will be in the group? The maximum group size is 16 travelers, which allows for a more personalized experience compared to larger bus tours.

What should I bring? Just bring your camera, some comfortable clothes, and perhaps a light jacket if the weather is cool or windy, especially at higher viewpoints.

Is the tour family-friendly? While there’s no specific mention of children, the scenic and relaxed nature of the trip makes it suitable for most travelers, including families who enjoy sightseeing without strenuous activity.

This tour hits the sweet spot for those who want beautiful views, a taste of local culture, and a relaxed pace—all at a budget-friendly price. It’s a fine choice for anyone eager to take in Madeira’s stunning landscapes without spending the entire day on a bus or entering multiple paid attractions.