Madeira Best of the West Day Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Madeira and want to get a solid taste of the island’s rugged coastline, charming villages, and lush forests, the Madeira Best of the West Day Tour might be just what you need. It promises a full day of exploring some of Madeira’s most iconic sights, with the convenience of hotel pickup and round-trip transport.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it packs in a lot of highlights without feeling rushed — the stops at Cabo Girao and Porto Moniz offer picture-perfect moments, while the scenic drives through Laurissilva forest and Paul da Serra add a peaceful, natural touch. Plus, the price of around $44 is pretty competitive for a full day out with a guide.

However, a word of caution: some reviews hint that the day might stretch out a little longer than necessary, especially if you’re not a fan of long bus rides or multiple stops. Also, lunch is on your own, so you’ll want to budget extra for that. If you’re someone who enjoys structured sightseeing with plenty of viewpoints and photo ops, this trip is likely to suit you well. It’s especially good if you’re visiting Madeira for the first time or don’t want to rent a car.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Ideal for first-time visitors seeking a broad overview of Madeira’s west.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple.
• Highlights the island’s natural beauty with stops at Cabo Girao, natural pools, and Laurissilva forest.
• Guided tours with knowledgeable guides who provide insightful commentary.
• Flexible for different interests: stunning views, charming villages, or a swim in natural pools.
• Good value at around $44 for a full-day experience, considering the transport and guided insights.

An In-Depth Look at the Madeira West Tour

This tour is a practical option for travelers who want to see Madeira’s west coast without the hassle of renting a car or figuring out public transport. It offers a comfortable way to cover a lot of ground in about 8 hours, with a focus on the island’s most photogenic and culturally interesting spots.

Starting the Day: Hotel Pickup and First Impressions

The experience kicks off with hotel pickup from central Funchal around 8:30 am. The group, typically kept under 55 travelers, sets out on a scenic drive along the coast. Having hotel pickup included is a huge plus—it saves time and hassle, especially if you’re unfamiliar with local transportation. The guided commentary, often in multiple languages, helps set the tone, and you can expect a friendly, professional guide to explain the significance of each stop.

Cabo Girao: A View from the Highest Cape in Europe

Your first stop is Cabo Girao, a towering sea cliff at 580 meters above sea level. The views here are truly something to behold. Standing on the observation platform, you’ll look down from Europe’s second-highest sea cliff, with the Atlantic stretching out in all directions. It’s a quick 20-minute stop, but the photo opportunities are unforgettable. The safety barriers are well maintained, and you’ll want to spend a moment capturing the sweeping vistas.

Multiple reviews mention how breathtaking this spot is. Laura, one traveler, said, “Loved the natural pools, wish we had more time there,” showing how popular the pools and viewpoints are. It’s a must-see for anyone wanting a quick but spectacular introduction to Madeira’s dramatic coastline.

Ribeira Brava and the Charm of Local Villages

Next, the group heads to Ribeira Brava, a lively village with a beautiful church of São Bento. Here, you get about 30 minutes to wander around, soak in the local atmosphere, and admire the sea views. It’s a good chance to stretch your legs and see a typical Madeiran village, with traditional architecture and small cafes.

A reviewer, Kenneth, called the guide “very knowledgeable and entertaining,” which enhances the experience here. If you’re interested in local culture or just want a taste of daily life outside the tourist areas, this stop hits the mark.

Scenic Drive Across Paul da Serra

From Ribeira Brava, the tour crosses the Paul da Serra plateau, the largest flat area on the island. The landscape here is surprisingly expansive and different from the lush coast, offering a more open view of Madeira’s volcanic terrain. The 10-minute stop gives you a chance to appreciate the vastness and perhaps snap some photos of the landscape.

Exploring the Northwest Coast: Ribeira da Janela and Porto Moniz

The drive continues through the Ribeira da Janela valley, famous for waterfalls and rugged cliffs. The scenery is lush and green, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way. The main highlight here is Porto Moniz, known for its natural swimming pools—formed from volcanic lava with crystal-clear water.

You’ll have about 1.5 hours here, which is enough to grab lunch and enjoy a swim. Several travelers mention the value of this stop, with some regret about not having more time, as Laura put it: “Loved the natural pools, wish we had more time there.” Check out local restaurants or bring your own snacks to make the most of this relaxing spot.

Seixal and Véu da Noiva Viewpoint

After Porto Moniz, the tour moves on to Seixal, a quiet village with a stunning waterfall viewpoint called Véu da Noiva. The waterfall cascades dramatically over rugged cliffs, and the view from the lookout is pretty spectacular.

Sarah, a reviewer, noted that they felt “tired and depleted” from sitting on the bus so much, but that the scenery was worth it. If you love waterfalls and scenic cliffs, this stop will surely satisfy.

Final Stop: Encumeada Viewpoint and Laurissilva Forest

On the way back to Funchal, the tour makes a final stop at Encumeada, perched high in the mountains. Here, you’ll get a panoramic view of both the north and south coasts of the island. The Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is also part of the route, offering a glimpse into Madeira’s lush, endemic greenery.

Many reviews praise the driver’s commentary during these parts. Doug, who appreciated the “wonderful scenery and the driver informing about the area and its history,” hits the nail on the head. This part of the tour is less about stops and more about taking in the vast, layered landscape.

Ending the Day: Return to Funchal

Around 5 pm, the bus arrives back at your hotel, completing a full day of sightseeing. While the schedule is packed, some travelers, like Colin, felt the stops were a bit long, leading to a “dragged out” feeling. Balance might depend on your preferences—if you love to relax and take photos, you’ll appreciate the schedule; if you prefer a quicker pace, it might feel a little stretched.

What Makes This Tour Worth It

One of the biggest selling points is the combination of natural beauty and cultural sights woven into a manageable itinerary. For $44, you get transportation, a guide, and access to several of Madeira’s highlights—making it a good deal compared to booking individual tickets or trying to explore on your own.

The guides tend to be praised consistently. Luciano, in one review, was described as “friendly and professional,” making the experience engaging and informative. Their knowledge about the island’s history, geography, and local culture enriches the journey, helping you appreciate what you’re seeing.

The Value of the Stops

The stops are carefully chosen for their scenic or cultural value. Cabo Girao’s views are unforgettable and perfect for photos. Ribeira Brava offers a slice of local life, and Porto Moniz’s natural pools are among the island’s most enjoyable natural attractions. Seixal and Véu da Noiva add waterfalls and rugged cliffs, while Encumeada provides a mountain-top perspective that ties it all together.

Practicalities and Tips

• Timing: The 8-hour duration works well for most travelers, but be prepared for a full day.
• Lunch: Not included, so plan to bring snacks or budget for a meal in Porto Moniz.
• Comfort: The bus is comfortable, but the roads are narrow and winding, which can be a consideration if you’re prone to motion sickness.
• Group Size: Usually up to 55 travelers, so expect a lively, social atmosphere but still manageable.

The Real Experience from Reviews

Many travelers mention how “knowledgeable” and “funny” guides make the day memorable. One reviewer pointed out that their guide “moved from German to English commentary without hesitation,” highlighting the multilingual nature of the tour. The natural pools and viewpoints are repeatedly praised for their beauty, with several saying they would do the tour again.

Some minor negatives include the feeling of the day dragging or too much sitting on the bus, but these are balanced out by the stunning scenery and friendly guides. If you’re looking for an easy way to see Madeira’s west coast without much hassle, this tour hits the mark.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This is an excellent choice for first-time visitors who want a rundown of Madeira’s west in one day. It’s perfect if you prefer guided tours, value having transportation taken care of, and want to see key sights without planning each stop yourself.

It’s also suitable for travelers who enjoy scenic viewpoints, waterfalls, and natural pools, and don’t mind a full day of sightseeing. If you’re someone who prefers a more active or flexible day with more walking, this might feel a bit too sedentary, as most stops are short and involve minimal walking.

The tour is generally family-friendly, as long as children are comfortable on a bus for several hours and can enjoy sightseeing without needing lots of physical activity.

FAQ About Madeira Best of the West Day Tour

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have around 1.5 hours in Porto Moniz to find a restaurant or enjoy the natural pools on your own, so plan accordingly.

How long is the total bus ride?
While the exact duration of the drive isn’t specified, expect most of the day to be on the bus, with frequent stops. The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, including stops and transport.

Are the viewpoints accessible?
Yes, the main viewpoints like Cabo Girao and Véu da Noiva are accessible with safety barriers and platforms. However, some stops like the natural pools require walking or light movement.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Generally, yes, especially if the kids enjoy scenic drives and sightseeing. Keep in mind the long hours on the bus, so small children might need some extra patience.

What makes this tour a good value?
At around $44, the tour includes guide services, all taxes and fees, and hotel pickup and drop-off, which is quite reasonable given the number of sights covered.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours before the tour date, giving you some flexibility.

What’s the guide like?
Most reviews praise the guides for being knowledgeable, humorous, and attentive. Guides often speak multiple languages, enhancing the experience for diverse groups.

Final Thoughts

The Madeira Best of the West Day Tour offers a solid, straightforward way to experience some of the island’s most iconic scenery and cultural highlights, all without the stress of self-driving. It’s particularly good for first-timers, photography enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a relaxed yet rundown of Madeira’s west coast.

While it might feel a bit long for some, the breathtaking views, friendly guides, and well-chosen stops make it a worthwhile investment. Just remember to bring some snacks, wear comfortable shoes, and keep your camera ready — Madeira’s scenery is truly photogenic.

Whether you’re after spectacular cliffs, charming villages, or natural swimming pools, this tour is a dependable way to fill your day with memorable sights and experiences.