Madeira North Offbeat: Boaventura, Sao Vicente, Pta Delgada

If you’re looking to explore parts of Madeira that most visitors miss, this Madeira North Offbeat tour offers a wonderful way to see the island’s lesser-known spots. Designed to go beyond the typical tourist trail, it takes you into the heart of Madeira’s wild northern landscape, revealing secret valleys, unique landmarks, and charming villages. From the breathtaking views at Espigão to the quirky local chapel that resembles Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia, this trip feels more like a discovery expedition than a standard sightseeing tour.

What really makes this experience stand out for us are the stunning viewpoints and the insight from guides who genuinely know their way around the island. You’ll appreciate the chance to taste authentic Madeira flavors, like Poncha, and learn stories behind some of the most unusual sights. However, keep in mind that the tour is quite full and involves a fair amount of driving and walking, which might not suit everyone, especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy off-the-beaten-path adventures, scenic landscapes, and local culture. It’s perfect for those who want a full day of exploring with a knowledgeable guide, but it might be less ideal if you’re after a very leisurely or family-focused experience. Still, if you’re comfortable with moderate walking and curious about Madeira’s hidden corners, this could be just the right fit.

Key Points

• Discover lesser-known sites beyond the main tourist spots, including secret viewpoints and small villages
• Enjoy panoramic views from spots like Espigão and Encumeada that show Madeira’s wild beauty
• Visit unique landmarks such as Madeira’s version of the Sagrada Familia, built over 15 years
• Taste local flavors with a traditional Poncha and learn about Madeira’s farming and cultural traditions
• Small group size means more personal attention and a more intimate experience
• Flexible and informative guides enhance the journey with interesting stories and insights

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Madeira North Offbeat Tour

If you’re the type of traveler who loves uncovering hidden treasures and seeing a different side of an island, this offbeat tour offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, quirky architecture, and local charm. We’re going to walk you through each stop, sharing what makes them special, what to expect, and some honest thoughts based on reviews and details.

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins with convenient pickup options—either in the Funchal city center, Lido, or Caniço. This flexibility makes it easy for travelers staying in different parts of the area. The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, which includes several stops for sightseeing, photos, and short walks, making it suitable for anyone comfortable with a full day on the road.

The price is set at $74 per person, adding a solid value considering the varied stops, guide, and transportation included. The tour keeps small groups to a maximum of 8 participants, allowing for a more relaxed and personal experience, which many travelers appreciate.

The Scenic Drive and First Stops

The journey kicks off with a short 30-minute van ride from the designated meeting points. Before diving into the sights, there’s a quick stop for everyone to catch up, grab a coffee or a ‘garoto,’ and get a quick briefing on what to expect. This little warm-up sets a friendly tone and makes the day feel less rushed.

The first major stop is at the Miradouro Fajã dos Padres, which offers sweeping views of islands’ traditional farms and terraces. You’ll want your camera ready here because the landscape is full of lush greenery and agricultural charm, with a true sense of Madeira’s working countryside.

Espigão: The “End of the World”

Next, we head to Espigão, dubbed the “end of the world” by locals. It’s a panoramic spot that overlooks a deep valley, revealing Madeira’s wild, unaffected nature in all its rugged glory. It’s a place that really gets the heart pounding with its dramatic cliffs and sweeping views, perfect for snapping memorable photos or just standing in awe.

According to one reviewer, the views from Espigão are “simply beautiful,” and it’s clear why this spot leaves such a lasting impression. It’s the kind of place that reminds you how untouched and raw the island’s landscape can be.

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Madeira’s Sagrada Familia

A surprise highlight is Madeira’s own version of the Sagrada Familia, built by Mr. Macedo over 15 years. It’s a tiny chapel that bears a striking resemblance to the famous Barcelona basilica. The story behind its construction adds a layer of local charm—an earnest project by a dedicated neighbor that’s now a quirky, eye-catching landmark.

Visiting this little chapel feels like stumbling upon an art piece in the middle of nowhere. It’s a testament to Madeira’s creative spirit and the unexpected treasures tucked away in quiet corners.

Serra de Água: Hidden Valley

Continuing through Serra de Água, you’ll find yourself in a peaceful village nestled in a broad valley surrounded by towering mountains. The area hasn’t seen the crowds that flock to other parts of Madeira, so there’s a sense of untouched tranquility here. It’s a place to appreciate the quiet beauty of the island, away from the busier tourist spots.

Encumeada Viewpoint: A Panoramic Experience

Rising to 1,007 meters, the Encumeada viewpoint offers a breathtaking glance at Madeira’s north and south coasts. It’s a spot perfect for a quick stop, but the views are so expansive that you’ll want to take your time. It’s also a good opportunity for some photos and to simply soak in the varied landscape.

São Vicente: The Heart of the North

One of the standout stops is São Vicente, a charming town with a rugged coastline. We love the way you can climb a few steps to the church tower here—an excellent vantage point for capturing the wild coast and lush surroundings. Reviewers highlight that guides share interesting stories about the area, making the visit more engaging.

Ponta Delgada: A Hidden Village

Ponta Delgada is a quiet spot often overlooked, but it’s a gem worth discovering. Situated between lush greenery and blue sea, it offers a peaceful retreat away from the crowds. The village’s natural beauty and serenity make it a photographer’s paradise, and it’s easy to see why visitors find it enchanting.

Boaventura: End of the Day with Local Flavors

The final stop is in Boaventura, an historic village that’s relatively isolated, helping it preserve much of its original charm. Old mansions, narrow streets, and a laid-back vibe make this a perfect ending to the day. Here, you’ll get to taste a traditional Poncha, a local drink made from sugarcane spirit, lemon, and honey, which the guide will serve as a toast to the day’s adventures.

The Return and Optional Nightcap

After exploring Boaventura and enjoying the Poncha, the tour wraps up with a scenic drive back to Funchal. Many participants recommend visiting their favorite Poncha bars afterward to keep the mood light and the memories fresh.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides transportation from several meeting points, a local guide, and some small touches like water and a local drink (Poncha, beer, or soft drink), along with coffee to keep you going. The insurance is covered by law, so you can relax knowing you’re protected.

However, lunch isn’t included, though the guides are happy to help organize a group reservation if desired. You should budget for your own meal, especially if you want to enjoy traditional Madeira dishes.

Note that transfer from outside Funchal or Caniço isn’t part of the package, so plan accordingly if you’re staying farther out.

Accessibility and Practicalities

The tour is not recommended for children under 12 or those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, mainly due to the nature of some stops and walking involved. Also, travelers are advised to bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, rain gear, and water. Madeira’s weather can change unexpectedly, so it’s good to be prepared.

Authenticity and Value

Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides—notably one called Richard—who make the experience engaging and informative. They highlight the variety of viewpoints and hidden sights as major pluses, with one reviewer calling Richard “an amazing guide” and expressing love for the experience.

At $74, the tour offers quite a bit of value considering the full day’s exploration, transportation, and local insights. It’s a good way to see a diverse slice of Madeira without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Madeira North Offbeat experience suits travelers keen on discovering the island’s secret corners and scenic viewpoints. It’s perfect for those who enjoy learning local stories, tasting regional drinks, and avoiding crowded tourist spots. If you’re comfortable with a moderate pace, lots of driving, and some walking, it will feel like a day well spent.

If you’re traveling with families or have mobility concerns, this might not be the best fit. But if you’re a curious explorer eager to see Madeira’s lesser-known charms, this tour offers a well-rounded, memorable day.

The Sum Up

The Madeira North Offbeat tour is a fantastic way to see more of the island’s unspoiled beauty and quirky landmarks. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate scenic views, local culture, and a touch of adventure. From the panoramic vistas at Espigão to the charming, hidden villages like Ponta Delgada and Boaventura, every stop provides something special.

What sets this experience apart is the passionate guide and the small group format, which makes it more personal and flexible. You’ll leave with a good understanding of Madeira’s diverse landscapes and stories, plus some lovely photos and maybe a few sips of Poncha.

While the day is packed, it’s designed to keep you engaged from start to finish. Just remember to bring your camera, comfortable shoes, and an open mind ready to uncover Madeira’s best-kept secrets.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation from selected meeting points in Funchal, Lido, or Caniço is provided, including a van for the main sightseeing drive.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with multiple stops for sightseeing, photos, and short walks.

What’s the price per person?
It costs around $74, which covers most of the guiding, transportation, water, and a local drink.

Are children allowed?
This tour isn’t suitable for children under 12, mainly due to the nature of stops and walking involved.

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

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included, but guides can help you reserve a group table if you wish to dine together.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, water, sunscreen, rain gear, and a sun hat are recommended. Madeira’s weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared.

This offbeat journey really highlights the lesser-explored, authentic side of Madeira, making it a memorable choice for curious travelers eager to see the island’s hidden treasures.

You can check availability for your dates here: