MADEIRA TOUR- SANTANA EAST TOUR STRAW THATCHED ROOFED HOUSES

Exploring Madeira’s Charm: The Santana East Tour in a Nutshell

If you’re considering a day out in Madeira that combines cultural sights with sweeping views, the Santana East Tour offers a solid option. This 7.5-hour journey is packed with highlights like the iconic straw-thatched houses, panoramic mountain vistas, and a visit to a local rum distillery. It’s a route that caters especially well to those who want to see Madeira’s natural beauty and traditional character without the hassle of planning every detail.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its ability to balance scenic stops with cultural insights. You’ll get a taste of Madeira’s heritage through the famous Santana houses and a glimpse into local craftsmanship. Plus, the scenic spots like Pico do Areeiro and Ponta de São Lourenço promise unbeatable views that will make your camera happy. On the downside, the pickup process can be a bit unpredictable, with some reviews mentioning last-minute notices, which is worth keeping in mind if you’re on a tight schedule.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love a mix of culture, natural scenery, and a relaxed day out. If you enjoy seeing iconic sights and don’t mind a group setting, this could be a perfect fit. It’s also a good choice for those with a curiosity for Madeira’s traditions and landscapes, without the need for strenuous hikes or overly long excursions.

Key Points

• Cultural Highlights: Visit the famous traditional Santana straw-thatched houses, a UNESCO-listed symbol of Madeira’s architecture.
• Breathtaking Views: Panoramic scenery from Pico do Areeiro and Ribeiro Frio offers some of the best vistas on the island.
• Variety of Stops: The tour mixes cultural sites, scenic viewpoints, and a visit to a rum factory for tastings.
• Comfort and Convenience: Includes transportation with an expert local guide, making it easier to enjoy the day without worrying about logistics.
• Time Management: With around 1.5 hours in Santana and stops at key viewpoints, it balances sightseeing with enough free time for photos and wandering.
• Potential Drawbacks: Some travelers report last-minute pickup notices, so flexibility is key.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Look at the Santana East Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off in Funchal, with pickup included from central locations or nearby hotels. The experience is primarily through comfortable transportation, which helps you relax and enjoy the scenery rather than worry about driving. Depending on where you’re staying, pickup might be quick or involve a brief walk to the main road—something to keep in mind if you’re staying outside Funchal or in more remote areas.

The Scenic Drive to Pico do Areeiro

Your first major stop is Pico do Areeiro, one of Madeira’s highest points. Here, you’ll get a chance to snap some photos of sweeping mountain views and cover a bit of altitude that makes the island’s landscape so dramatic. The drive itself is part of the experience, with the guide sharing snippets about Madeira’s geography and history.

Exploring Faial and Ribeiro Frio

Next, you’ll visit Faial, a charming village with scenic vistas. The guided tour here often includes some background on local life and the island’s agricultural traditions. The highlight, though, is Ribeiro Frio, a lush area known for its spectacular views and, potentially, a chance to walk in a UNESCO World Heritage site forest. While the walk itself isn’t mandatory, it’s an option for those who enjoy a quick nature stroll.

More Great Tours Nearby

Santana and Its Iconic Houses

The main event of the tour is Santana, famous for its A-framed straw-thatched houses. These structures are more than just photogenic—they’re a symbol of Madeira’s architectural heritage. You’ll have about 1.5 hours to explore, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere. Many visitors find this stop the most memorable part, especially since the homes are so distinct and colorful.

Local Lunch and Rum Tasting

While the tour doesn’t include meals, it’s common to find local options in Santana or nearby villages. Plus, there’s a visit to the Porto da Cruz Rum Factory, where you can sample different rums and learn about Madeira’s distillation tradition. Those who enjoy a good spirit will appreciate this authentic touch, and the tasting adds a flavor of local craftsmanship to your day.

The Dramatic Finale: Ponta de São Lourenço

The last scenic stop is at Ponta de São Lourenço, a rugged peninsula known for its stark landscapes and incredible ocean views. The Miradouro do Rosto viewpoint offers an unforgettable vista of the coast, perfect for photos. This part of the tour wraps up with a sense of island wildness that contrasts nicely with the more cultivated scenes earlier.

Return to Funchal

After a full day of sightseeing, you’ll head back to Funchal. The tour typically ends around the same time it begins, with memories of stunning vistas, cultural sights, and a taste of Madeira’s traditions.

What the Tour Feels Like in Practice

From the reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this tour to be a worthwhile experience. One reviewer mentioned, “The scenery is stunning, and the guide shared lots of information,” which highlights how much value good guiding adds to the trip. Others appreciate the blend of cultural and natural sights, especially the opportunity to see Santana’s traditional houses up close.

However, there’s a note of caution from some about the logistics—specifically, last-minute pickup notifications. If you’re someone who prefers a clearly scheduled day, this could be a minor inconvenience. The tour’s length and content make it suitable for those who want a rundown without overextending themselves.

Pricing-wise, considering you get transport, a guide, and multiple scenic stops, it’s a fair deal for a full-day excursion. The inclusion of a visit to a rum factory with tastings adds a local flavor that many travelers find delightful.

The Balance of Experiences

What makes this tour stand out is its well-rounded approach. You get a taste of Madeira’s architectural heritage with the straw-roofed houses, spectacular mountain scenery from Pico do Areeiro, and coastal drama at Ponta de São Lourenço. The variety ensures that you won’t feel stuck in one type of scenery or activity, making it suitable for travelers eager to see the island’s diversity.

Suitability for Different Travelers

While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the tour’s moderate pace and focus on sightseeing make it suitable for most adults and older children comfortable with walking and bus travel. If you love picturesque views, cultural insights, and a relaxed day out, you’ll find this tour ticks those boxes.

FAQs About the Santana East Tour

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
It depends on the stops you plan to visit and how walking-intensive they are. The tour involves some walking at scenic viewpoints and in Santana, so it’s best suited to those able to manage some standing and walking.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, as you’ll be exploring different sites, some possibly uneven. A jacket might be useful in the mountain areas, and bringing cash is advised for small purchases or tips.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, meals and beverages are not included. However, there’s a possibility to find local dining options in Santana or nearby villages.

Can I join this tour if I’m staying outside Funchal?
Pickup is included from central Funchal hotels and accommodations. For locations outside the main area, contact the agency to confirm availability or arrange for pickup.

What is the duration of the tour?
The activity lasts approximately 7.5 hours, but check the actual schedule when booking as starting times vary.

Is there a maximum group size?
While not explicitly stated, the use of comfortable transportation and a guide suggests a moderate group size, ideal for personal attention without feeling crowded.

Final Thoughts

The Madeira Santana East Tour offers a thoroughly enjoyable way to see some of the most iconic sights on the island. It’s ideal for visitors who want a good mix of culture, scenic views, and a taste of Madeira’s traditional architecture, all without the need to plan every detail. The stops at Pico do Areeiro, Santana, and Ponta de São Lourenço make this a memorable day for those eager to capture stunning photos and learn about the island’s heritage.

While last-minute pickups can be a bit frustrating, the overall value and variety of experiences make this tour a sound choice for most travelers. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone keen to reconnect with Madeira’s natural beauty, this excursion will likely leave you with a deeper appreciation for this diverse island.

If you love picturesque landscapes and cultural sights, and you’re comfortable with some bus travel, this tour could be a highlight of your Madeira trip. Just be ready for some scenic beauty, a bit of history, and a splash of local flavor.

You can check availability for your dates here: