North Tour & Wine Tasting – 4×4 (Small Groups)

If you’re heading to Madeira and want to see the island beyond the usual tourist spots, this North Tour & Wine Tasting in a 4×4 might be just what you’re looking for. It promises a full day of scenic drives, cultural stops, and local flavors—all with a small group size that makes the experience more personal.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines the natural beauty of Madeira’s north coast with authentic local encounters. First, the stunning viewpoints like Boca das Voltas give you those perfect photo ops, and the wines you taste at Quinta do Barbusano offer a genuine taste of the island’s vineyards. Plus, the guided commentary by knowledgeable drivers makes the journey educational and engaging.

On the flip side, you should consider that the tour is quite packed, with many stops squeezed into roughly 8.5 hours. If you’re not a fan of tight schedules or long days on the road, this might feel a bit rushed, especially during the lunch break. Still, if you’re eager to see a broad swath of Madeira’s north with an emphasis on scenic views and local culture, this tour could be a good fit.

This experience works well for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing, cultural insight, and wine tasting without the hassle of organizing multiple activities on your own. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy small-group tours where you can ask questions and get personalized attention.

Key Points

• Small group setting creates a more intimate and personalized experience.
• Expert guides provide engaging, knowledgeable commentary, making the day richer.
• Diverse stops include viewpoints, villages, and historic sites offering a well-rounded look at Madeira’s north side.
• Wine tasting at Quinta do Barbusano adds a flavorful local touch.
• Flexible meal options—lunch isn’t included but can be arranged on the day.
• Comfortable transportation in a 4×4 allows access to scenic, sometimes off-the-beaten-path locations.

Exploring Madeira’s North Coast in a 4×4

When reading about this tour, what stands out is the chance to see Madeira’s dramatic landscapes without the hassle of navigating yourself. Traveling in a small group in a sturdy 4×4 means you can go beyond the main roads and get closer to the island’s more rugged spots. The vehicle’s size is perfect for a more relaxed, flexible itinerary—less crowded than bigger bus tours but still comfortable enough for a full day of exploring.

The tour starts bright and early at 9:00 am from Funchal, with pickup included, which is a real plus. That means you don’t have to worry about logistics from the start. Plus, the tour ends back at the meeting point, so you’re not left with a long transfer afterward.

The Itinerary in Detail

Porto da Cruz & Santa Cruz

Your journey kicks off with Porto da Cruz, a charming village where you can visit a historic mill dating back to the early 20th century. Here, you can also try the traditional Poncha—a regional sugar cane-based drink that’s famous in Madeira. Keep in mind, Poncha isn’t included in the price, but it’s well worth the small extra if you want a true local experience.

Next, in Santa Cruz, you’ll explore the local church and market. This stop offers a glimpse into everyday life on the island. It’s a short visit, but enough to soak in some local flavor and see the town’s charm.

Engenho de Cana and Porto da Cruz

Moving on, the visit to Engenhos do Norte is a highlight for many. Here you get to see the oldest steam engine in Europe, which is pretty impressive and adds a sense of historical depth to the experience. You also have the chance to sample Poncha and Rum, which makes this stop stand out for those interested in Madeira’s spirit traditions.

Santana & Scenic Overlooks

Santana is famous for its traditional houses with thatched roofs. Though the visit is brief, the photo opportunities are fantastic, and it’s a great way to appreciate some of Madeira’s architectural heritage. Afterwards, a quick stop at Ilha offers more scenic views, and the Cabanas viewpoint provides a spectacular panorama of the north coast—perfect for snapping a few memorable photos.

Lunch & Relaxation

The tour includes a lunch break at Arc de S. Jorge, at the only local restaurant in the area. The food is homemade, and the setting is authentic. It’s a good chance for a genuine taste of Madeira’s cuisine, and with about 1.5 hours allocated, you’ll have some time to relax and digest before resuming the tour.

Ponta Delgada & São Vicente

The tour continues to Ponta Delgada, where you can visit the parish church, and São Vicente, often described as one of the northern capitals of Madeira. Both stops are brief but give you a flavor of local life and history.

The Wine Tasting Experience

One of the standout features of this tour is the visit to Quinta do Barbusano, where you get to sample red, white, and rosé wines. The tasting is included in the tour price, which adds excellent value, especially considering Madeira’s reputation for unique wines. Visitors have praised this part as a highlight, with one reviewer calling it “a wonderful vineyard visit with a focus on winemaking.”

The Guides and Group Size

With a maximum of 6 travelers, this tour offers a truly personalized experience. The reviews consistently emphasize the knowledgeable and friendly guides, who make the day not only informative but also fun. One reviewer called Lewis “an excellent driver, guide, comedian, and passionate about Madeira,” highlighting how much the guides contribute to the overall enjoyment.

What’s Not Included

The tour price covers most of the key experiences, including the wine tasting and entries to the mills. However, lunch is not included, though it can be booked on the day. Drinks during lunch aren’t covered either, so keep that in mind.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At roughly $62 per person, this tour offers quite a bit for the price. You’re paying for small-group intimacy, cultural and scenic stops, and wine tasting—all in one day. When you factor in the personalized attention and diverse highlights, it’s generally good value, especially if you’re keen to explore the north coast in depth.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, relaxed day with friendly guides and fewer crowds. If you’re into scenic views, local culture, and wine, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. The small group aspect makes it perfect for those who prefer a more intimate atmosphere rather than large bus tours.

It’s also a good pick if you want to see both natural landscapes and cultural sites without the hassle of planning each stop individually. However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or are traveling with children, you might want to consider the pace and packed schedule.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically targeted at families, the tour involves a full day of sightseeing, so older children accustomed to long days on the road should be fine. The small group and varied stops keep things engaging.

What is included in the tour?
You’ll visit a sugar cane mill, a water mill, a typical house in Santana, and the wine tasting at Quinta do Barbusano. All fees and taxes are covered.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included but can be booked with the guide on the day. Drinks during lunch are not covered.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts about 8 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 9:00 am and ending back at the meeting point.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 6 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 27 days in advance on average to secure your spot.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup from your accommodation in Funchal is offered.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. In case of cancellation due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This North Tour & Wine Tasting in a 4×4 provides an enriching way to experience Madeira’s northern side, especially if you like a mix of scenic views, cultural spots, and regional wines. Its small-group format ensures more personal interaction, and the knowledgeable guides make the day both fun and informative.

While it’s a full schedule that might feel busy for some, the variety of stops and the authenticity of experiences—like wine tasting and visits to historic mills—make it a worthwhile option for those looking to get a well-rounded taste of Madeira’s north.

If you’re ready for a day of discovery that balances natural beauty with local flavor, this tour could be just what you need. For those who prefer more leisure or flexibility, consider how the busy itinerary matches your travel style, but overall, it’s a solid choice for an immersive Madeira experience.

Disclaimer: Always check the latest details and booking requirements before planning your trip, as availability and tour specifics can change.