Funchal: Valley of the Nuns tour by tuk tuk

If you’ve been eyeing a trip to Madeira and want a chance to see its famous valleys and mountain views without the hassle of big crowds or long hikes, this Valley of the Nuns tuk tuk tour might just be worth considering. It’s a compact, three-hour adventure that promises a mix of scenic vistas, local history, and a fun ride through some of the island’s most striking landscapes.

What really caught our eye about this experience is how it combines stunning viewpoints with an intimate, local feel—plus, the chance to learn a little about the island’s past from knowledgeable guides. One thing to keep in mind, though, is that it’s a short tour, so if you’re after a deep dive into Madeira’s hidden corners, you might want something longer. But for a relaxed, snapshot-style trip, it hits the spot.

This tour is well-suited for travelers who appreciate a bit of history, love scenic views, and want an easy way to explore without much walking. It’s probably best for those who enjoy small-group or private experiences and are comfortable with tuk tuk rides. It’s not designed for families with very young children or for those seeking extensive hiking or adventure, but for a casual, scenic escape, it fits nicely.

Key Points

• Beautiful viewpoints: The Eira do Serrado viewpoint offers panoramic views over the interior of the island.
• Unique transport: Riding in a tuk tuk makes this tour a fun, small-group adventure.
• Historical interest: The Nuns Valley’s story of escape from pirates adds a meaningful layer to the landscape.
• Local vegetation: You’ll see a variety of plant life that makes the scenery even more vibrant.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and reserve with flexible payment options.
• Price vs. value: At $68, it’s a reasonable way to get a quick, guided overview of Madeira’s natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Tour Itinerary in Depth

Starting Point and Pickup

The tour begins from Funchal, with a pickup included at your hotel or cruise ship. This is super convenient because it means you don’t have to worry about finding your way to a meeting point. If you’re on a cruise, there’s an option to meet directly at the terminal, though keep in mind there’s a $5 port charge payable to the local provider. The pickup process is straightforward, and being collected from your accommodation makes the early start hassle-free.

The Viewpoint at Eira do Serrado

The highlight of the tour is the stop at Eira do Serrado, perched at 1094 meters. Here, you get an unobstructed view over the parish of Curral das Freiras, a tiny mountain village famous for its dramatic setting. If the weather lines up, you might even stand above the clouds, which adds a bit of magic to the experience.

Our experience reviewers loved this part, with one describing it as “a nice walk,” pointing out that the scenery is genuinely impressive. The view is the kind that sticks with you—mountains dropping away in every direction, a patchwork of green valleys, and the sense of being on top of the world.

Descending into the Nuns Valley

After soaking in the panoramic vistas, the tuk tuk takes you down into the Nuns Valley, a remote spot surrounded by towering, almost perpendicular mountains. This tiny parish has a fascinating history—back in 1566, nuns fleeing pirate attacks sought refuge here, hiding their treasure in this secluded location. Today, the valley is a peaceful place with a small 19th-century church and some local charm.

You’ll have around 30 minutes to explore the valley itself. This gives enough time to walk around, snap some photos, and maybe sample the famous chestnut bread, which is a local delicacy. The quiet, scenic setting makes it a perfect spot for a brief but memorable visit.

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What You’ll See and Experience

• The views from Eira do Serrado are truly the star, giving you a sweeping perspective of the island’s interior.
• The valley itself offers a glimpse into Madeira’s past and present, with its small churches and agricultural vibe.
• The vegetation is varied, adding lushness and color to the landscape—perfect for nature lovers.
• Throughout the ride, your guide will share stories, points of interest, and help you capture beautiful photographs.

Ending the Tour

The tour wraps up back in Funchal, making it an easy, no-stress way to cap off your day. The entire experience lasts around 3 hours, which is just right for a quick yet immersive taste of Madeira’s mountain scenery and history.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:
– Hotel or cruise port pickup and drop-off
– Guided tuk tuk ride around the mountains and valleys
– Stops at key viewpoints and the valley for photos and exploration

Not Included:
– Drinks, snacks, and cakes (though you can certainly bring your own if you want to enjoy a picnic-style moment)
– Additional expenses outside the tour (like souvenirs or extra refreshments)
– Outside-city pickups are not included unless specified, so plan accordingly

Price and Value

At $68 per person, this tour is a decent value for anyone wanting a guided, scenic overview of Madeira’s interior. It’s not a full-day tour, but it offers a curated look at some of the most picturesque spots without the need for strenuous activity or long drives. The inclusion of hotel pickup makes it especially convenient.

How the reviews reflect the value

One reviewer called it a “nice walk,” which hints at the relaxed pace and scenic nature of the tour. Another praised the guide, Carla, for being “very open” and making everyone feel comfortable, which enhances the experience beyond just the views.

Who Will Love This Tour

If you’re someone who appreciates stunning scenery but prefers a relaxed, guided approach, this tour will suit you well. It’s particularly good for travelers who want an overview of Madeira’s interior without committing to longer or more intensive excursions.

It’s also perfect if you enjoy small, private groups or want the flexibility of booking a private tuk tuk experience. Because it’s not heavily focused on strenuous activity, it’s a good choice for those who might have mobility concerns or just want an easy-going day.

Who Might Not Find It Ideal

If you’re looking for a full-day adventure, or extensive hiking, this might feel too brief. Also, those traveling with very young children might want to double-check the suitability, as the tour involves some driving and walking around the valley.

Final Thoughts

This Valley of the Nuns tuk tuk tour offers a charming, manageable way to see some of Madeira’s most scenic mountain views and learn a bit of local history along the way. The guided experience adds a personal touch, and the flexible booking options make it a low-hassle choice for travelers wanting a snapshot of the island’s interior.

While it doesn’t cover every corner of Madeira’s beautiful landscapes, it captures enough to leave you with memorable photos and stories. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone returning to Madeira, it’s a neat option for a short, scenic escape that balances views, history, and relaxed comfort.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at your hotel or cruise ship are included, making it very convenient.

Can I join if I’m on a cruise?
Absolutely. If you’re on a cruise, you can meet the guide at the terminal. Just remember there’s a $5 port charge payable directly to the local provider.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is about 3 hours from start to finish, including stops for photos and exploration.

What’s the price for this tour?
It costs around $68 per person, which is reasonable considering the guided views and easy pace.

Is it suitable for families?
It’s not explicitly marketed for families with very young children, and the tour involves some walking and riding in tuk tuks, so check if it’s suitable for your kids.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, some water, and perhaps a light snack. The tour doesn’t include drinks or cakes.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but you can buy or bring your own if you like.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private group experience, which means more personalized attention.

What if it’s cloudy or rainy?
Weather can affect the views, especially at higher elevations. If clouds are low, you may end up above them, which can be dramatic in its own right.

How accessible is the tour?
Given the short duration and the focus on viewpoints, it’s fairly accessible, but consider mobility limitations if walking around the valley is an issue.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic excursion with friendly guides and a taste of Madeira’s mountain beauty, this tuk tuk tour could be just what you need. It’s a manageable way to experience some of the island’s best vistas and history in a friendly, intimate setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: