Funchal: Nuns Valley Short Stroll with Mountain Surroundings

If you’re exploring Madeira and love the idea of combining breathtaking scenery with some light walking, this Nuns Valley tour offers a solid option. While it’s not overly long or intense, it packs in enough highlights to make your half-day memorable. From panoramic views over Funchal to a charming village surrounded by towering mountains, this experience feels more like a relaxed escape into nature than a full-on adventure.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances scenic stops with cultural insights. Plus, the small group size (limited to 8 people) helps keep things intimate and personal, with knowledgeable guides who seem genuinely passionate. That said, the short walk to the viewpoint can be a bit hasty for some, and the bus’s capacity might be an issue if you’re tall or have mobility concerns. Overall, it’s a good fit for travelers who want a manageable but visually stunning taste of Madeira’s mountains and local villages.

If you’re after a laid-back, well-balanced trip that offers great photo ops and some local flavor without too much hassle, this tour should fit nicely into your Madeira plans.

Key Points

• Stunning panoramic views of Funchal and Nuns Valley from Pico dos Barcelos and Eira do Serrado
• Light walking with manageable hikes and easy strolls suitable for most
• Cultural insights into Curral das Freiras, including local chestnut-based cuisine
• Small group size for a more personalized experience
• Knowledgeable guides who share interesting facts about the area
• Good value considering the stops, scenery, and local food

This half-day experience is designed for those who want to see Madeira’s mountain scenery without committing to a full-day trek. It’s organized by Madeira Discoverers, with pickups included from designated meeting points. The trip lasts approximately 3 hours, making it light enough for casual travelers or those with a tight schedule but still substantial enough to enjoy the sights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Pico dos Barcelos
We loved the way this vantage point offers a full 360° view over Funchal. It’s an ideal starting spot for snapping some pictures and getting a quick overview of the city’s layout. The panoramic vista is genuinely impressive and sets the tone for what’s to come.

Next: Eira do Serrado
A short drive takes you to this high-altitude spot at 1094 meters, where you’ll get a chance for an easy walk along a mountain path. The path is well guarded and designed for most visitors, so you won’t need special gear. From here, we’re treated to spectacular views of the green valleys and steep ravines that surround the area. Several reviewers mention how breathtaking the scenery is—truly one of the highlights.

The Nuns Valley: Curral das Freiras
This is the star of the trip—a village historically used as a refuge for nuns escaping pirates since 1566. The colorful interior of the tiny church is worth a quick look, especially if you’re into local architecture. Visitors often comment on the charming atmosphere and the delicious chestnut-based cuisine, including soups, desserts, liquors, and even chestnut beer. It’s a chance to relax, enjoy some local flavors, and perhaps pick up a few souvenirs.

The Cultural and Culinary Side

Curral das Freiras isn’t just about spectacular views; it also offers a taste of Madeira’s traditional food. The chestnuts from the valley are a local specialty, and many reviews mention how the cuisine here—especially the chestnut desserts and liquors—is a highlight. It’s a good way to connect with local traditions without feeling like a tourist trap.

The Return Journey

After about 45 minutes in the village, you’ll hop back onto the bus and head back to Funchal. The entire process is smooth and well-paced, with plenty of time to soak in the scenery and chat with your guide.

According to reviews, the guide (often Norbert or Benjamin) makes a real difference in the tour. They’re praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and punctuality. Several guests appreciate the guide’s ability to share interesting facts, answer questions thoroughly, and keep the group engaged.

The bus is a key part of the experience. The reviews mention that the vehicle is comfortable, though a few note that the bus’s capacity can be tight, especially for taller travelers or those with mobility challenges. The driver is often described as safe and considerate, which is particularly important on Madeira’s narrow mountain roads.

Timing and Group Size

The tour is limited to 8 participants, which keeps it intimate and allows for a more personal experience. The schedule is flexible, with the ability to reserve and pay later, which adds to the convenience. Most travelers find the timing well-balanced, with enough stops to enjoy without feeling rushed.

While the exact price isn’t specified here, reviews suggest that this tour offers good value for the price paid. You get multiple viewpoints, a short walk, local food, and a knowledgeable guide—all packed into just three hours. Compared to longer or more crowded tours, this one appears fairly priced, especially considering the small group size and personalized approach.

If you’re into scenic views, a touch of local culture, and manageable walking, you’ll likely find this tour worth the investment. Many reviews emphasize how the guide’s storytelling enhances the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

This experience suits travelers who want a relaxed, scenic half-day in Madeira. It’s ideal if you’re interested in stunning viewpoints, local cuisine, and cultural stories but prefer to avoid strenuous hikes or long bus rides. The manageable walk to the viewpoint and the small group format make it accessible for most.

If you’re traveling with someone who appreciates photography, local food, and beautiful mountain scenery, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s especially good for those who like a personalized experience and enjoy learning from guides with local knowledge.

The Slight Caveats

Some reviews mention that the hasty short walk might feel a bit rushed, especially if you prefer more time at each stop. Others note that the bus can be tight for taller individuals or those with mobility issues. The weather can also influence visibility—on misty or rainy days, some viewpoints might be less spectacular.

If your goal is to see some of Madeira’s most iconic mountain scenery without spending an entire day on the road, this tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable option. With breathtaking views, charming villages, and a friendly guide, it gives you a taste of the island’s natural beauty and local flavor.

It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy light walking, scenic vistas, and cultural touches. The small group format means you’ll get a more personal experience, making it ideal if you value quality over quantity.

This tour provides great value, especially considering the stops, food, and insights you’ll gain. While it might be a bit rushed for some, it strikes a nice balance for most visitors seeking a manageable yet memorable Madeira adventure.

Is the walk to the viewpoint at Eira do Serrado difficult?
The walk is described as easy and well-guarded, suitable for most people. It’s a short stroll that doesn’t require special equipment.

How long do we spend at each stop?
Typically, about 15 minutes at Pico dos Barcelos, 35 minutes at Eira do Serrado, and 45 minutes in Curral das Freiras, making the overall trip around 3 hours.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
The walk is easy, and the stops are short, so it can suit most age groups. However, if mobility is limited, check with the provider about accessibility.

What language is the guide in?
The tour is conducted in English, German, Portuguese, and Afrikaans, depending on the group.

Does the tour include food?
Not a full meal, but you’ll have the chance to sample local chestnut specialties at Curral das Freiras, which many reviews highlight as a treat.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended—high heels are not allowed. Dress according to the weather, especially since mountain temperatures can vary.

Is it worth doing if the weather is misty or rainy?
Viewpoints might be less spectacular in foggy weather, but the experience can still be enjoyable, especially if you love moody mountain scenery.

How big is the group?
Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility.

What makes this tour different from other similar experiences?
Its small group size, knowledgeable guides, and focus on both scenic and cultural highlights set it apart from larger, more rushed tours.

Whether you’re after panoramic views, a taste of local cuisine, or just a peaceful half-day in Madeira’s mountains, this tour aims to deliver a well-rounded snapshot. With genuine insights and stunning scenery, it’s a quiet but rewarding way to see some of the island’s most beautiful spots.

You can check availability for your dates here: