Madeira by Sidecar: 5-Hours Old Roads to Calheta Tour

Exploring Madeira by Sidecar: The 5-Hours Old Roads to Calheta Tour

If you’re considering a way to see Madeira beyond the usual city sights, a sidecar tour along the island’s old roads might just be your perfect fit. This particular experience, offered by Madeira Sidecar Tours, promises a 5-hour adventure that takes you from Funchal to the west side of the island, covering highlights like Câmara de Lobos, Cabo Girão, and the charming town of Calheta.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines the thrill of riding a classic sidecar with the chance to explore some of Madeira’s most scenic spots. The personalized aspect, where the guide can tailor stops or routes to your interests, adds a layer of flexibility that big buses just can’t match. Plus, if you enjoy mountain views and coastal scenery, this tour hits the mark. However, it’s worth noting that it’s not suitable for very young children or people with mobility issues, given the nature of the ride.

This experience is best suited for travelers who love adventure, scenic drives, and want a more intimate look at Madeira’s landscape without the crowds. If you’re after something a bit different from typical tours and don’t mind an active, open-air journey, you’ll probably find this sidecar trip a memorable highlight.

Key Points

• Personalized experience: The tour can be adjusted to your preferences, making it more flexible and engaging.
• Stunning vistas: Expect panoramic mountain and sea views, perfect for photos and quiet reflection.
• Visit authentic villages: Stops include picturesque fishing villages and local spots that feel untouched by tourism.
• Cultural and culinary highlights: You’ll have opportunities to sample local foods and drinks at strategic stops.
• Comfort and safety: Helmets and communication systems are provided, ensuring a safe and connected ride.
• Limited suitability for kids and seniors: Not ideal for children under 10, babies, or those over 70, due to the ride’s nature.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Duration

The tour kicks off in Funchal, with pick-up arranged at your hotel or a central location—making things easy and convenient. It lasts about 5 hours, which is a decent chunk of time to really soak in the sights without feeling rushed. Since availability varies, it’s best to check the starting times when booking, but generally, you’ll have options that fit most schedules.

The Route and Stops

The journey begins in the heart of Funchal, and from there, your guide takes you along the historic, old roads that wind their way westward. One of the first stops is Câmara de Lobos, a colorful fishing village often painted with vibrant boats bobbing on the water. As one reviewer put it, “a picturesque fishing village, known for its colorful boats and stunning views,” it’s a real treat for photos and a peek into authentic island life.

Next, you’ll make your way to Cabo Girão, home to one of Europe’s highest sea cliffs. The Skywalk here offers jaw-dropping views, and it’s a highlight that travelers mention frequently. Expect to be wowed by the sense of scale as you peer down into the ocean and the coastline stretching far below. It’s a popular spot, but the views are so impressive that it doesn’t feel crowded.

The coastal drive from there offers a chance to see traditional villages and terraced hillsides. These old roads are the backbone of Madeira’s defining landscape—steep, winding, and full of character. Photos here will showcase Madeira’s rugged beauty, and your guide can pause for stops at prime viewpoints or charming spots for you to take it all in.

Reaching Calheta

The final destination is Calheta, famed for its golden sandy beach—a rarity in Madeira, where most beaches are rocky—and its historic sugar cane factory. If you enjoy relaxing by the sea or exploring local history, this stop will be a pleasant conclusion to your ride.

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Returning to Funchal

The tour wraps up back in Funchal, with drop-off at your hotel or the original meeting point. The full experience offers a comprehensive look at the island’s west side, blending natural beauty with local culture.

What Do Visitors Say?

Reviewers consistently praise this tour for its stunning views and good value. Suzanne called it “unbelievably awesome,” emphasizing the variation of scenery—from mountain peaks to villages—and the opportunity to stop at cafes and stalls. One traveler, Andreas, appreciated the knowledgeable guide and the lack of tourist crowds at the viewpoints, highlighting how the tour feels more authentic.

Astrid’s review echoed this sentiment, mentioning how her guide Nuno made the experience special, and how the tour offered a rare chance to see Madeira off the beaten path. The reviews affirm that this is a trip for those who want a personalized, scenic, and memorable journey.

The Value for Money

At $283 for up to 2 people, the price might seem steep at first glance, but considering it includes professional guiding, helmet and communication gear, insurance, and a customizable route, many feel it’s justified. The ability to tailor your stops and enjoy a private group adds to the overall value.

The Downsides

The main consideration is that this trip isn’t suitable for children under 10, babies, or people over 70. The open-air nature of the sidecar, along with the winding old roads, makes it less ideal for those with mobility issues or who prefer a more relaxed, seated experience. Also, the tour doesn’t include food, drinks, or entrance fees, so plan for some additional expenses if you want to visit specific attractions or enjoy local snacks.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys adventure, scenic drives, and authentic local experiences in a small-group setting, you’ll likely savor this ride. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want to see Madeira’s less touristy side and capture great photos along the way. It’s also perfect if you’re comfortable with open-air rides and looking for a unique, personalized way to explore.

This isn’t the best choice if you’re traveling with very young children, seniors with mobility concerns, or if you prefer guided bus tours with fixed stops. It’s also not a good fit if you’re mainly after a relaxed, sit-down experience—this is all about the ride and the views.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 10 due to the nature of riding in a sidecar and the winding roads.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about 5 hours, including pick-up, driving, stops, and return.

What is included in the price?
You get a professional driver/guide, helmet and communication system, insurance, and fuel. Stops at major attractions are part of the experience.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the tour is personalized—your guide can adjust the route or stops to suit your interests.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing and shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and your camera for photos. It’s a good idea to bring a jacket in case it gets cool.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

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

Final Thoughts

The Madeira by Sidecar: 5-Hours Old Roads to Calheta Tour offers a genuinely engaging way to see the island’s rugged west side. It’s a journey that blends adventure, natural beauty, and local charm, crafted for those who want a more intimate and active exploration of Madeira. With stunning views, authentic stops, and the thrill of a sidecar ride, it’s a memorable experience—perfect for adventure-loving travelers who value personalized attention and scenic scenery over a crowded bus tour.

For anyone eager for a different perspective on Madeira, this tour delivers a good mix of excitement, stunning photo opportunities, and cultural insights—making it a standout choice for your trip. Just be sure it fits your comfort level and age restrictions, and you’ll likely walk away with unforgettable memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: