Madeira: West Island Day Trip

If you’re considering a day tour around Madeira’s breathtaking northwest, you’ve come to the right place. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve gathered plenty of insights to help you decide if it fits your travel style. This tour promises a full day of exploring Madeira’s most iconic sights, from dizzyingly high cliffs to volcanic pools, with plenty of opportunities for photos and awe-inspiring views.

What really caught my attention are two standout features: first, the chance to stand on Cabo Girao’s glass platform, which is both thrilling and a bit nerve-wracking (in a good way). Second, the visit to Porto Moniz’s natural pools, which are universally loved for their scenic volcanic beauty and the chance to dip into cool, natural waters. But a note of caution—this is a fairly full itinerary, so it’s not ideal if you prefer a relaxed pace or have mobility issues. This tour suits travelers eager to see Madeira’s highlights efficiently, especially those who enjoy scenic drives, stunning viewpoints, and a bit of adventure.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Several stops offer panoramic vistas, including the high cliffs and mountain viewpoints.
• Varied Experiences: From waterfalls and forests to charming villages and volcanic pools, there’s a good mix.
• Comfortable Transportation: The tour uses an air-conditioned mini-bus, making long drives more bearable.
• Limited Free Time: While there’s some free time at Porto Moniz, other stops are more about sightseeing than lingering.
• Not Suitable for Everyone: People with vertigo, pregnant women, or mobility issues might want to consider carefully.
• Value for Money: The full-day itinerary, guide service, and transportation make this an efficient way to see Madeira’s northwest.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Madeira’s Northwest in Depth

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour kicks off at the Shopping Center Monumental Lido in Funchal, a convenient location for most visitors. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned mini-bus with a driver-guide who’s ready to share tidbits about Madeira’s geography and history. The day begins with a roughly 25-minute drive to the first major stop, setting the tone for a day filled with spectacular sights.

The Thrill of Cabo Girao

First up is the Cabo Girao viewpoint, often noted as the highest sea cliff in Europe. Here, you’ll have the chance to step onto a glass platform that juts out over the edge—an experience that’s as exhilarating as it sounds. The views of Câmara de Lobos and Funchal from this height are truly impressive. Many reviews highlight how breathtaking and photo-worthy this spot is, making it a must-see. Just a heads-up—if you’re squeamish about heights or have vertigo, you might find this part a little nerve-wracking.

Ribeira Brava and Coastal Scenery

Next, the tour takes you along the coast to Ribeira Brava, a small town with a 15th-century church and charming streets. The stop here is brief but offers a great chance for photos and a quick walk. On the drive, you’ll enjoy scenic views, often praised for their beauty and ruggedness. Some travelers note that the drive along the coast is especially picturesque, with plenty of opportunities to snap some shots.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Enchanting Fanal Forest

One of the tour’s highlights is the visit to Fanal Forest, part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Laurisilva. This area is renowned for its ancient trees and serene atmosphere. Many reviews mention how atmospheric the forest feels, especially when shrouded in fog—it’s almost like stepping into another world. Expect some walking at this stop, so comfortable shoes are a must. The fog adds an extra layer of mystery, but it can also obscure views, so don’t expect perfect visibility every time.

Porto Moniz’s Natural Pools

The visit to Porto Moniz is often a favorite among travelers. The volcanic pools, formed by lava and filled with sea water, are stunning and provide a unique swimming experience. Whether you choose to dip in or just admire the scenery, this stop offers a real sense of Madeira’s volcanic origins. You’ll have some free time here, which is great for relaxing or grabbing a snack. Many point out that the pools are well-kept and the views are spectacular.

Véu da Noiva Waterfall and São Vicente

From Porto Moniz, the tour continues to the Véu da Noiva waterfall, cascading 30 meters into the Atlantic. The view is dramatic, with the water plunging into the ocean below. It’s a perfect photo op and one of the more picturesque waterfalls on the island.

The charming village of São Vicente offers a glimpse into local life, with a church dating back to 1692. The architecture and simple facade give it an authentic feel. Traveler reviews mention that it’s a peaceful spot with lovely views, making it a good place to stretch your legs.

Encumeada Viewpoint and Return

Finally, the Encumeada viewpoint provides a stunning panorama of both the north and south sides of Madeira. This is often described as a perfect spot to take in the island’s diverse landscapes. Afterward, the tour makes its way back to Funchal, arriving at the starting point in the early evening.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The entire tour lasts about 8 hours, starting from around the morning, with times varying depending on availability. Included in the price is transportation in an air-conditioned mini-bus and a driver-guide who will enrich your experience with local insights. Be prepared for some walking at each stop—comfortable shoes are essential. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or those with vertigo, given the heights and uneven terrain.

A key point to mention: entrance fees are not included, so for some locations, you might want to bring a bit of extra cash if you plan to visit any paid attractions or grab a snack. Lunch is also not included, so planning ahead for a meal or snacks is recommended.

What to Bring

• Comfortable shoes for walking
• Warm clothing, as weather can change quickly
• Sun protection: hat, sunscreen
• Camera to capture those incredible views
• Water to stay hydrated

Things to Keep in Mind

• The tour emphasizes sightseeing and scenic drives; if you prefer more leisure or time in one place, this might feel rushed.
• The stops are well curated, but some travelers mention that the time at each site can be limited.
• The weather can be foggy or rainy, especially in forested areas, so pack accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for those wanting a rundown of Madeira’s northwest. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy spectacular viewpoints, natural landscapes, and a bit of adventure. If you’re keen on seeing the island’s most notable sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself, it’s a solid choice. However, if you have mobility challenges or prefer more relaxed, unstructured days, you might find this a bit fast-paced.

Final Thoughts

This Madeira day trip offers a compelling mix of breathtaking vistas, geological wonders, and charming villages. It’s a great way to tick off several highlights in one go, especially if you’re limited on time or want a guided experience to enrich your understanding of the island’s geography. The scenery alone makes it worthwhile, with unforgettable views from cliffs, waterfalls, and forests that stick with you long after the day ends.

While not perfect—for instance, the packed schedule and limited free time mean you won’t get hours at each site—the overall experience seems to deliver good value for the price. You’ll leave with plenty of photos, stories, and a true sense of Madeira’s rugged beauty.

In summary, if you’re looking for a well-organized tour that captures the essence of Madeira’s northwest, this trip will likely meet your expectations. Just be prepared for some walking, dress in layers, and bring your camera.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with vertigo?
Probably not. The tour involves heights at Cabo Girao and viewpoints, which might be unsettling if you have vertigo.

How long does the tour last?
The full-day tour takes about 8 hours, including travel and sightseeing stops.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so you should plan to bring snacks or buy something during the stops, especially in Porto Moniz.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, sun protection (hat and sunscreen), a camera, and water.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are not included, so you may want to bring some extra cash for optional visits or souvenirs.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

All in all, this Madeira: West Island Day Trip sounds like a wonderful way to see some of the island’s most iconic sights. Whether you’re snapping photos of cliff edges or relaxing by volcanic pools, it’s a day packed with memorable moments that showcase the rugged beauty of Madeira.

You can check availability for your dates here: