Madeira Westside Achadas da Cruz, Porto Moniz, Seixal and Fanal

Madeira Westside Tour: Achadas da Cruz, Porto Moniz, Seixal, and Fanal

If you’re eyeing a day to truly soak in Madeira’s wild, scenic beauty, this tour might just be what you’re looking for. It’s a well-curated journey through the island’s most striking spots — from the exhilarating descent in Achadas da Cruz to the mysterious, misty forests of Fanal, and the dramatic black sand beaches of Seixal.

What really caught our attention is how the experience combines adventure, like the steep cable car ride, with moments of peaceful nature that seem straight out of a storybook. Plus, the small group size keeps things intimate, letting you really enjoy each spot without feeling rushed.

On the flip side, a potential snag is that weather conditions could impact some activities, especially the cable car trip — a common concern for outdoor adventures in Madeira. But overall, this tour seems tailored for anyone eager to experience the best of Madeira’s unspoiled west side, whether you’re a nature lover or just craving some awe-inspiring scenery.

Who will love this?

Travelers craving a mix of adventure and nature, those who appreciate local culture, and anyone wanting a comprehensive taste of Madeira’s wild coast will find this tour a great fit. It’s also ideal if you want an organized way to see multiple highlights without the hassle of planning each stop yourself.

Key Points

• Unique cable car descent: Experience one of Europe’s steepest cable cars with a 98% gradient.
• Stunning natural pools: Porto Moniz offers volcanic rock formations and inviting sea pools.
• Enchanted forest: Fanal’s mystical trees, often shrouded in mist, create a fairy-tale atmosphere.
• Wild coast views: Ribeira da Janela’s striking sea rock and Seixal’s black sand beaches highlight Madeira’s volcanic landscape.
• Expert guidance: The local guide’s knowledge adds depth and fun to the day.
• Balanced itinerary: The stops allow enough time to enjoy each spot without feeling hurried.

The Itinerary in Detail

Achadas da Cruz Cable Car Descent

The adventure kicks off with what might be the most adrenaline-pumping part: a 600-meter downhill cable car ride with a gradient of 98%. This steep descent is the jewel of the tour, offering panoramic views as you glide over Madeira’s rugged cliffs. It’s not just a transport method — it’s a thrill that sets the tone for the day. The cable car is Europe’s steepest, which makes it a unique highlight.

Expect to spend about 1 hour and 30 minutes here. The experience is included in the price, and the cable car’s operation can sometimes be affected by weather or maintenance, so it’s good to be aware that it might be closed if conditions aren’t ideal.

Porto Moniz Natural Sea Pools

Next, you’ll head to Porto Moniz, famous for its volcanic rock formations that cradle natural sea pools. These pools are a fantastic place to relax, take photos, and maybe even dip in if the weather is warm enough. It’s a slice of raw, volcanic beauty — a perfect contrast to the lush forests and beaches later on.

Guests typically spend around 1 hour and 30 minutes here, and entry is free. One notable thing from reviews is how many people loved the unique setting and the chance to enjoy the refreshing waters, especially after a busy morning.

Fanal Forest: Madeira’s Fairy-tale Realm

The third stop transports you to Fanal, a forest known for its mossy, mist-covered trees that evoke fairy-tale scenes. The cool, damp air and the swirling fog create an atmosphere like no other. It’s a favorite among nature lovers and photographers. The forest walk takes about 45 minutes, and no entrance fee is required.

A reviewer gushed about how the walk in Fanal felt like stepping into a different world, especially in the mist. It’s a peaceful, almost hypnotic experience that balances the excitement of earlier stops.

Ribeira da Janela: Sea Rock and Coastal Views

The next quick stop is to the Ilheus da Ribeira da Janela — a dramatic sea rock with a window-shaped opening. It’s a perfect spot for a quick photo and to appreciate Madeira’s dramatic coastline. Just 15 minutes are allotted, but the views are striking. It’s an iconic Madeira scene that you’ll want to remember.

Seixal Black Sand Beach

Finally, we arrive at Praia do Porto do Seixal, known for its striking black volcanic sand. This beach offers a tranquil spot to unwind, snap some photos, or simply enjoy the sound of crashing waves and waterfalls nearby. It’s another brief stop, about 15 minutes, but enough for a quick walk and some pictures.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour offers a good value considering the full day of exploring. Price-wise, at $88.94 per person, it covers transportation, the cable car fee, a local guide, water, a small drink (Poncha, beer, or soft drink), and a coffee — a nice touch for warming up or refreshing after some sightseeing.

You’ll want to budget extra for lunch (not included) and Porto Moniz’s entrance fee of €3 if you choose to swim in the pools. That’s a small expense relative to the overall experience, especially given the quality of sights you’ll see.

Transport & Group Size

Travel is in an air-conditioned vehicle, and with a maximum of 8 travelers, this tour maintains a cozy, familiar feel. The small group size means better interaction with your guide, who’s often praised for their knowledge and humor.

Timing & Flexibility

The start is at 8:30 am, and the itinerary is designed to maximize exposure to each stop. The schedule sometimes shifts due to weather or traffic, and the guide might adjust the stops slightly, but overall, it’s a well-organized day.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

Many reviews highlight how knowledgeable and attentive the guide, Richard, was. One traveler said, “Richard was an excellent, attentive guide with great historical and cultural knowledge of Madeira,” and others appreciated the personalized approach. Several reviews mention how the guide managed to beat the crowds by arriving early, especially at popular spots like Porto Moniz and Fanal.

The experience seems perfect for those who love seeing varied landscapes — from the adrenaline rush of the cable car to the peaceful serenity of the forest. Several travelers pointed out that even on a day with some rain, the guide adjusted the route, showing flexibility and commitment to a good experience.

Final Thoughts

This Madeira Westside Tour offers a well-rounded, immersive look at the island’s rugged beauty. The combination of daring rides, natural pools, mystical forests, and dramatic coastlines is hard to beat. It’s especially appealing if you want a full day of sightseeing that balances adventure with tranquility.

The price is reasonable given the diversity of experiences packed into one day. Plus, the small group size and knowledgeable guide make it a more personal, engaging way to explore. If you’re into nature, scenic views, and a touch of adventure — or simply want to tick off Madeira’s top west-side highlights — this tour will serve you well.

However, be prepared for the possibility that weather could impact some activities, especially the cable car. It’s also worth noting that the tour is best suited for those aged 12 and up, as younger kids might find the steep descent a bit daunting.

In all, this experience is a fantastic way to pack a lot of Madeira’s wild coast into a single day, especially if you prefer guided tours that handle logistics for you.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for families with children?
The tour’s minimum age is 12, so it’s best suited for older children and teenagers. The steep cable car might be intimidating for younger kids.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a camera, and perhaps a light jacket for forest or coastal breezes. Water, snacks, and a hat are also handy.

How long does each stop last?
Stops vary from about 15 minutes at Ribeira da Janela and Seixal to 1.5 hours at Porto Moniz and Achadas da Cruz. The last stops in Fanal and the coast are shorter but equally scenic.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll need to budget separately or bring snacks.

What happens if the cable car is closed?
The tour notes that the cable car can be closed due to weather or maintenance. The guide may adjust the route accordingly, possibly replacing the descent with other scenic stops.

How big is the group?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, which keeps things intimate and allows for more personalized attention.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. Refunds are straightforward if you cancel in time.

If you’re after a day filled with spectacular views, a mix of adventure and calm, and expert guidance, this tour offers a genuine taste of Madeira’s wild west. It balances the thrill of the steep descent with moments of quiet awe, making it a memorable part of your island trip.