Majestic West Tour and Fanal Forest

Exploring the Majestic West of Madeira: A Practical Review of the Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Madeira and considering a comprehensive day tour of the island’s west coast, this Majestic West Tour and Fanal Forest could be just what you need. It promises a mix of scenic drives, cultural stops, and natural wonders—all packed into about 7.5 hours. The highlight? Visiting the iconic Porto Moniz natural pools and the enchanting Fanal Forest, among other highlights that showcase Madeira’s varied landscapes.

What we love about this experience is its emphasis on local scenery and history—from the picturesque fishing village of Camara de Lobos to the awe-inspiring cliffs of Cabo Girao. Plus, the small group size (max 15 travelers) means you get a more personal feel, with plenty of time to take photos and soak in the views. A notable plus is the affordable price, especially considering the number of stops and the diversity of sights.

That said, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. The tour’s long duration might be tiring for some, especially if you’re not used to mountain roads or a full day out. Also, some attractions, like the Porto Moniz pools and Cabo Girao, have small entrance fees, so budget accordingly. This tour is best suited for active travelers who love scenic drives, nature, and a bit of local culture.

If you enjoy exploring a mix of landscapes, learning about Madeira’s natural flora, and want a well-organized day with a knowledgeable guide, this tour could be a great fit. It balances sightseeing with comfort, making it suitable for those who prefer not to rent a car and want a curated experience.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering major west coast highlights in one day
• Small group size for a more personal experience and better photo opportunities
• Expert guides who share insightful stories about Madeira’s history, flora, and local culture
• Natural pools at Porto Moniz offer a refreshing swim if weather permits
• Visually stunning stops like Cabo Girao’s glass platform and Fanal Forest
• Cost-effective considering the variety of attractions and included transportation

A Deep Dive into the Tour Itself

Starting with Convenience: Pickup and Duration

This tour kicks off early at 8:30 am, with pickup from centrally located spots like Santa Cruz, Caniço, Garajau, or even directly from your hotel if booked privately. We appreciate how smooth this makes the start—no need to worry about navigating or parking. The entire day lasts roughly 7.5 hours, from pickup to drop-off, making it a full but manageable day of sightseeing.

The Drive through Scenic Madeira

The journey begins with a scenic drive through Santa Cruz, giving you a chance to see the lush landscapes and small villages from the comfort of the bus. As you head west, you’ll move through a landscape dotted with banana plantations, old steep roads, and patches of eucalyptus and pine trees. The driver and guide often share stories about the island’s flora, which guests on reviews describe as “informative and passionate,” making the ride both enjoyable and educational.

Camara de Lobos: A Picturesque Fishing Village

One of the first stops is Camara de Lobos, a charming fishing village famous for its colorful boats and the inspiration Winston Churchill found here for his paintings. The village’s name comes from the seals that once inhabited the area, and it retains a cozy, traditional vibe. Expect to see boats docked in the bay, with plenty of photo opportunities. Guests often enjoy sampling Poncha, the local rum-based drink, or simply soaking in the view of the rugged cliffs.

The guide’s commentary here helps bring the village to life, adding context to the picturesque landscape and local traditions. The stop lasts about 20 minutes, enough to stretch your legs and take some photos.

Cabo Girao: Europe’s Second-Highest Cliff

Next, you’ll visit Cabo Girao, famous for its glass platform that hovers over the cliffs—an Instagram-worthy spot. The views of the lush terraces below and the surrounding coast are truly memorable. There’s a small fee of €2 for access, but many guests agree it’s worth it for that breathtaking perspective. The platform offers a unique vantage point to appreciate the scale of Madeira’s dramatic coastline.

Ribeira Brava: A Quaint Mountain Village

Driving further south, you’ll stop in Ribeira Brava to explore its historic church, fortress, and lively market. The village is surrounded by towering mountains and offers a taste of local life with cobblestone streets and traditional architecture. Don’t miss trying the famous Queijada cakes here—these cheese tarts are considered some of the best on the island. It’s a good spot for a quick coffee or restroom break, usually lasting around 30 minutes.

The Mountain and the Plateau: Paul da Serra

From there, the tour takes you along the warm southwest coast to Paul da Serra, a high-altitude plateau renowned for its expansive views and unique vegetation. The drive through this area is striking—mimicking a route like “Route 66 Madeira,” with winding roads through mimosas, pines, and eucalyptus. The climate here can be cooler, so a light jacket is recommended.

The Enchanting Fanal Forest

A major highlight is the visit to Fanal Forest, famous for its ancient laurel trees over 700 years old. The forest’s almost magical atmosphere, especially when shrouded in clouds, has earned it comparisons to scenes from Harry Potter or Jurassic Park. Hollywood even used it as a filming location for Star Wars. The towering trees and moss-covered trunks create a surreal, fairy-tale setting that many guests find unforgettable.

Levada Ribeira de Janela and Scenic Coastline

You’ll also get a taste of Madeira’s unique landscape with a stop at Levada Ribeira de Janela. The view from here includes the north coast, old paths, and vines, plus remnants of the island’s whale-hunting past—short caves that once stored sea mammals.

Later, the tour heads toward Porto Moniz, known for its stunning natural volcanic pools. Guests typically spend about two hours here, swimming or just relaxing by the pools. The pools are free, but there are paid options if you’d like a more developed area with amenities. The water is cool but invigorating—many reviews praise the natural beauty but note the sea can be rough in winter, sometimes preventing swimming.

Final Stops: Seixal and São Vicente

From Porto Moniz, driving through Seixal offers scenic waterfalls and lush vineyards. Although the beach might be inaccessible during peak seasons due to crowds or road restrictions, the viewpoint provides a lovely overview.

The last stop is São Vicente, a charming village with notable surf, old churches, and a local wine cellar where you can taste Madeira wine for free. This final visit caps off the day with a relaxing, cultural note before heading back to Funchal through the Serra de Agua, a scenic mountain route.

The Value and Practicalities

At just $35.57 per person, this tour offers great value considering the number of attractions and scenic stops included. Entrance fees for Cabo Girao and Porto Moniz pools are modest (€2 and €3 respectively), but overall, the price covers transportation, guide insights, and the convenience of a well-packed day. Our review mentions that the guide was “very informative,” which adds a lot of value, especially for those eager to learn about Madeira beyond just sightseeing.

The small group size means fewer crowds and more flexibility—your guide can tailor the experience a little, and you’ll find it easier to ask questions or snap photos. The tour is well-organized, with clear timings, and the bus is equipped with panoramic windows, making the landscape even more enjoyable.

Considerations

While the itinerary is packed, it can feel lengthy—some guests mention it runs over 11 hours from start to finish, especially with traffic or delays. Be prepared for a full day and bring comfortable shoes, water, and perhaps a light jacket for the mountain areas. If you’re a confident driver, renting a car might seem tempting, but many reviews suggest that the guided tour provides a stress-free way to see the highlights without worrying about mountain roads and navigation.

Weather can influence the experience—especially at the pools or the forests—so check the forecast and be flexible. If the sea is rough, swimming at Porto Moniz might be off the table, but the scenery and atmosphere still make it worth the stop.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Majestic West Tour is ideal for travelers who want to see a broad swath of Madeira’s west coast without the hassle of self-driving. It’s perfect for those who appreciate stunning landscapes, cultural insights, and natural beauty in one organized package. The small group setting and knowledgeable guides make it particularly appealing if you’re after a personal touch and local stories.

It’s also a good choice for active guests who don’t mind a long day and enjoy exploring varied environments—from cliff tops to lush forests and volcanic pools. If your time in Madeira is limited but you want to maximize your experience, this tour delivers a well-rounded snapshot of the island’s west side.

While it’s not a tour for those seeking ultra-luxurious amenities or a highly relaxed experience, it balances price, scenery, and expertise well. It’s a solid pick for curious travelers eager to learn, see dramatic views, and enjoy Madeira’s natural wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation is included in the tour, with pick-up from designated spots and a bus equipped with panoramic windows for optimal viewing.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours, from pick-up to drop-off, including all stops and driving time.

Are there any entrance fees?
Yes, there are small fees for Cabo Girao (€2) and Porto Moniz pools (€3), payable on-site. The natural pools in Porto Moniz are free to access.

Can I swim at Porto Moniz?
Yes, the pools are open for swimming, but it depends on weather conditions. The sea can be rough in winter, which might restrict swimming.

How many stops are there?
The tour features about 10 stops, including villages, scenic viewpoints, forests, and natural pools, similar in number to other island tours.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the information doesn’t specify family-friendly features, the pace and scenery appeal to active travelers. Just ensure children are comfortable with a long day and mountain roads.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a light jacket for the mountains, swimming wear if you plan to swim, and a camera for all those incredible views.

In essence, this Majestic West Tour offers a balanced, enjoyable way to see Madeira’s west coast with minimal fuss. It’s a solid choice for those wanting a guided experience that covers a variety of landscapes, with friendly guides and good value for your money.