Planning a trip to Madeira and looking for a way to see some of the island’s best natural sights without the hassle of planning every detail? This tour from Heartbeat Madeira offers a solid combination of scenic views, relaxing spots, and local flavor, all packed into about five hours. It’s designed for cruise ship travelers who want a taste of Madeira’s wild beauty with minimal fuss—making it a convenient, value-packed option.
What really appeals to us about this experience is its focus on iconic natural scenery, especially the cable car ride to Achadas da Cruz and the natural pools at Porto Moniz. Plus, the stop at Seixal’s black sand beach offers a memorable photo opportunity—and a chance to breathe in the fresh Atlantic air. The only thing to keep in mind is that this tour requires a fair bit of walking and involves some weather-dependent activities, so it’s best suited for those who are comfortable with basic outdoor mobility and don’t mind a little unpredictability.
If you’re someone who loves exploring natural landscapes, enjoys panoramic views, and appreciates local touches like a traditional drink and coffee, this tour could be a perfect fit. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed overview of Madeira’s west coast in a small group setting.
Key Points
- Scenic cable car ride: Experience Europe’s steepest cable car with a 98% gradient, offering incredible views and a quick ride down to Achadas da Cruz.
- Natural pools at Porto Moniz: Refresh in volcanic rock pools that are both beautiful and unique to Madeira.
- Black sand beach at Seixal: Capture stunning photos of one of the island’s most Instagram-worthy spots, complete with waterfalls.
- Flexible itinerary: Stops are carefully curated but can adapt to weather or unforeseen circumstances.
- Small group size: With a maximum of 8 participants, the tour offers a more personalized experience.
- Value for money: At $57, including transportation, guide, and some local treats, this is an accessible way to see Madeira’s highlights.
A Closer Look at the Tour Experience
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Starting Point and Transportation
This tour kicks off at the Funchal cruise terminal, making it super easy if you’re arriving on a cruise. The transportation provided is a private electric vehicle—about 75 minutes of relaxing travel that sets a laid-back tone for the day. This isn’t a rushed bus tour; it’s intimate and designed to keep things cozy.
Achadas da Cruz: The Cable Car and the View
One of the highlights is the cable car ride to Achadas da Cruz. This isn’t just any cable car—it’s reputed to be the steepest in Europe, with a 98% gradient. Don’t worry if you’re nervous about heights; the ride only lasts around five minutes, but the views are incredible. We loved the way the cable car drops you into a quiet patch of earth between soaring green cliffs and the endless Atlantic. It’s a true slice of peace and natural beauty.
Once at the bottom, there’s time to soak in the scenery, snap photos, and perhaps enjoy a quick Portuguese coffee—either a Bica or Garoto. The guide is knowledgeable and friendly, often sharing tidbits about the local landscape and history. Richard, the guide in reviews, is praised for his friendliness and insights, which can really elevate the experience.
Porto Moniz: Natural Sea Pools
Next up is Porto Moniz, famous for its volcanic rock pools. These pools are naturally formed and filled with seawater, offering a safe and scenic place to swim or just paddle around. We appreciated that the guide shows you some of the more hidden, quieter pools if you’re after a bit more privacy or a less crowded experience. This stop is perfect if you want to cool off and enjoy some relaxing time by the sea.
More Great Tours NearbySeixal: Black Sand and Waterfalls
Our journey concludes at Seixal’s stunning black sand beach—a place that’s become popular on social media for its dramatic landscape, complete with waterfalls cascading into the sea. The scenery here is genuinely breathtaking, and it’s a great spot for photos or just soaking up the atmosphere. Expect about 30 minutes to walk along the beach, take pictures, and admire the waterfalls that create a fairy-tale backdrop.
Optional Refreshments and Local Flavor
A highlight for many is the stop at a local poncha bar, where you get to try Madeira’s famous local drink, Poncha. Whether you prefer it with alcohol or a soft drink, it’s a fun way to get a taste of the local culture. Plus, a coffee break with options like Bica or Garoto adds a nice touch of local flavor.
Ending the Tour
After a total of about five hours, including some flexibility for weather and wait times, you’ll be back at the cruise terminal, feeling like you’ve seen a good chunk of Madeira’s stunning coastline without the hassle of organizing your own transport or entry tickets.
What We Think About the Value
For $57 per person, this tour covers quite a lot. It includes transportation, the cable car fee at Achadas da Cruz, a local guide, and some drinks and coffee—these add up if you try to do everything independently. The small group size (limited to 8 people) keeps things personal and flexible, which is a big plus.
Of course, the Porto Moniz pools and Seixal beach do have entrance fees or optional costs, but the overall experience feels very balanced for the price. You’re paying mainly for access to the highlights and the guidance to make the most of them.
Flexibility and Weather Considerations
Weather in Madeira can be unpredictable. The tour provider emphasizes that some activities, like the cable car, could be canceled or delayed due to weather or maintenance. From reviews, we learn that waiting times can happen, but guides do their best to keep everyone informed. Flexibility is built into the plan, so don’t expect a perfectly smooth ride if the weather turns bad.
Accessibility and Suitability
While the tour is great for most active travelers, it’s not suitable for children under 12, or those with mobility issues, as it involves walking and some uneven terrain. If you’re comfortable with outdoor activities, you’ll find this experience rewarding.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is ideal for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those looking for a relaxed but scenic overview of Madeira’s west coast. It’s perfect if you’re on a cruise and want a well-organized, small-group tour that hits several of the key sights without feeling rushed.
If you’re after a tour that gives you a taste of Madeira’s natural beauty, with the chance to see iconic landscapes and have some local drinks, this one fits the bill well. It’s not designed for those seeking extensive history or cultural tours, but if you want a nature-focused day, it’s a good pick.
Final Thoughts
This Madeira tour offers a practical and scenic way to explore the island’s western highlights. The standout moments—like the European steepest cable car and the natural pools at Porto Moniz—are genuinely impressive. The small group setting and inclusive touches like drinks and coffee make it a good value.
While weather and wait times are factors beyond the operator’s control, the overall experience feels carefully curated to maximize your sightseeing without the stress. It’s well-suited for adventurous travelers who don’t mind some walking, enjoy spectacular views, and want a manageable, memorable day.
If you’re seeking a balanced, honest, and scenic introduction to Madeira’s wild coast, this tour could be just what you need before heading back onto your cruise or exploring more of the island on your own.
Madeira: Achadas Cruz, Porto Moniz, Seixal for Cruise Ship
“Richard was a top-notch guide, told us a lot about the country and its people, and was super friendly. Even with my limited English, I understood m…”
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is not recommended for children under 12, mainly because of the walking involved and the cable car ride. It’s best suited for active older kids and adults.
What should I bring with me?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection like sunglasses and a hat, swimwear if you plan to swim, and possibly a change of clothes. Weather can change unexpectedly, so warm clothing might also be useful.
Are the stops flexible?
Yes, the itinerary can adapt depending on weather and other conditions, but most stops like Achadas da Cruz, Porto Moniz, and Seixal are core to the experience.
Are meals included?
No, lunch isn’t included. However, you’ll have the chance to enjoy local coffee and drinks, and there are plenty of cafes nearby each stop if you want to grab a bite.
What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 5 hours, from start at the cruise terminal back to the same point. Check availability for starting times.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, and those with mobility impairments might find the walking and terrain challenging.
What happens if the cable car is closed?
If the cable car is closed due to weather or maintenance, the guide will inform you and offer alternative viewpoints or activities, though the core experience might be affected.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your schedule shifts.
If you’re heading to Madeira and looking for a relaxing, scenic day that highlights its natural beauty, this tour hits many of the right notes. Just be sure to pack comfortably, keep an eye on the weather, and enjoy the stunning views Madeira has to offer.
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