Nuns Valley/Monte with sledge ride.

If you’re contemplating a tour that offers a mix of stunning scenery, local charm, and a dash of fun, this Nuns Valley/Monte with sledge ride experience might catch your eye. We’ve gathered plenty of insights and honest feedback from travelers who’ve taken this trip, and here’s what you need to know before booking.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines breathtaking viewpoints like Pico dos Barcelos and Eira do Serrado, with the unique charm of Madeira’s traditional sledge rides in Monte. Plus, the tasting at a private family bakery adds a lovely local touch. One thing to consider is that the weather can impact your experience — fog and rain are not uncommon, which might limit the views you’re hoping to see. This trip is best suited for those who enjoy scenic drives, local culture, and don’t mind a little unpredictability.

This tour would suit travelers who want a compact, 4-hour snapshot of Madeira’s more iconic sights and experiences, without spending an entire day on the road. It’s also a good pick if you’re curious about sleigh rides or eager to explore Monte’s historic sites in a lively, friendly group atmosphere.

Key Points

• Stunning viewpoints like Pico dos Barcelos and Eira do Serrado offer panoramic vistas.
• Authentic local tastings at a private bakery showcase Madeira’s flavors.
• Exciting sledge ride in Monte provides a memorable thrill.
• Weather can affect the experience, especially the views.
• Group size is limited to 16, keeping it manageable and personal.
• Flexible options for the sledge ride, with extra costs for solo riders.

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect from This Madeira Tour

This experience lasts around 4 hours, making it a great choice for those who want a taste of Madeira without a full-day commitment. The day kicks off with a pick-up at your hotel or designated meeting point — if you’re on a cruise, the meeting point is conveniently at CR7 Museum, just an 8-minute walk from the port. For hotel pickups, there’s an extra charge and minimum group sizes, so it’s worth confirming beforehand.

First stop: Nuns Valley (Curral das Freiras)

The highlight here is the dramatic landscape, a caldron-shaped village surrounded by jagged lava rock, forming a stark contrast to the lush greenery elsewhere on the island. The views are spectacular, but as some reviews note, weather can be tricky. If it’s foggy or rainy, the scenery may be less impressive, but the atmosphere still offers a sense of remote tranquility that many find charming.

Travelers have raved about the liquor tasting here, describing it as “the best liquors in Madeira”. An added bonus is that this tasting is free, giving you a chance to sample local spirits without worrying about extra costs.

Moving on to Pico dos Barcelos and Eira do Serrado

The journey continues through Funchal and up to Pico dos Barcelos, an iconic viewpoint that shows off Madeira’s rugged coastline and lush valleys. From here, you’ll head up to Eira do Serrado at 1094 meters above sea level. Weather permitting, you’ll get a stunning view into the Nuns Valley — an experience that many travelers describe as “breathtaking.” But beware — if clouds roll in, the scenery might be hidden, which has disappointed some visitors.

A Stop at the Private Family Bakery

Next, you visit a local bakery, where you can indulge in cakes, biscuits, and liquors. Many reviews highlight this as a nice, authentic touch, giving insight into Madeira’s culinary traditions. It’s a relaxed stop that offers a chance to enjoy some sweet treats and local drinks, probably tasting the best liquors Madeira has to offer.

The Monte Toboggan Ride

The part most people look forward to is the Monte toboggan or sledge ride. For those willing to pay an extra fee (around €10 for solo riders or €35 for the ride included in the tour), it’s a fast, fun descent down the winding, shiny streets of Monte. Reviewers describe it as “hair-raising but safe” — a unique adventure that adds a real thrill to the day.

It’s important to note that the sledge ride is optional and paid separately, which can sometimes catch travelers off guard. The ride itself is quite popular, with many describing it as “a fantastic experience,” but some mention that it’s not suitable for everyone, especially if you’re uneasy with heights or speed.

Final Stop: The historic church and local atmosphere

The last part of the tour takes you to Monte’s famous church, a classic Madeira attraction. It’s a quintessential spot packed with history and charm. Though some reviews mention that the tour was rescheduled twice, once you’re there, it’s an enjoyable way to finish the day.

What Travelers Say: The Honest Feedback

Reviews paint a pretty balanced picture. Many appreciate the friendly guides, safe driving, and excellent organization. Travelers like John J. praised the guide Carlos for making the experience memorable, especially the sledge ride. Others, like Harold, found the tour “nothing wrong with it”, though he did mention rescheduling issues.

On the flip side, some travelers expressed disappointment due to weather conditions, with one reviewer stating, “we couldn’t see a thing because of thick mist.” It’s worth remembering that views depend heavily on weather, so expectations should be flexible.

A few reviews mention extra costs, notably for solo ride participants (€10) and the additional charges for hotel pickups in certain areas. It’s best to clarify these beforehand and weigh whether the extra expense is worth the experience for you.

Overall, most describe the tour as a “great day” with “fantastic experiences”, especially for those into scenic drives, local flavors, and a bit of adrenaline.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of This Tour

• Book in advance — the tour is popular and often booked about 40 days ahead.
• Bring a jacket — it can get quite chilly at higher elevations.
• Expect variable weather — if it rains or is foggy, views may be limited, but the tour still offers value.
• Prepare for extra costs if you want the sledge ride as a solo participant.
• Arrive early or confirm your pickup details, especially if you’re on a cruise ship.
• Go with an open mind — weather and scheduling hiccups happen, but the overall experience remains engaging.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for curious travelers who love scenic viewpoints and local culture. If you’re after a quick but memorable slice of Madeira, and don’t mind the possibility of weather dampening some views, it’s a solid choice. It’s also ideal for those interested in traditional toboggan rides and local tastings.

However, if you’re particularly sensitive to weather or prefer a more relaxed, less structured experience, you might want to explore other options. The tour’s limited duration and small group size make it more intimate and manageable, but also somewhat dependent on weather conditions and timing.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
This tour involves driving through hilly terrain and includes stops with some walking. The sledge ride, in particular, may not be suitable for everyone. It’s best to check with the organizer if you have specific mobility concerns.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, making it a good half-day activity that fits well into a busy travel schedule.

What is included in the price?
The main tour fee covers transportation, visits to Pico dos Barcelos and Eira do Serrado, the liquor tasting at the bakery, and the sledge ride in Monte. The toboggan ride costs extra unless you pay for the full package. Alcoholic beverages are included, but snacks like coffee and tea are not.

Can I cancel for a refund?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than that are non-refundable, so plan accordingly.

What should I bring?
Bring a jacket for cooler mountain temperatures, comfortable shoes for walking, and cash or cards if you want to buy souvenirs or additional tastings.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This Madeira tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of some of the island’s most iconic sights and experiences. It’s a great pick if you want to explore Nuns Valley, enjoy panoramic views, taste local spirits, and add some adventure with the sledge ride. The small group size and friendly guides help make it feel personal, but keep in mind that weather can impact your experience.

For travelers who enjoy a mix of scenery, culture, and a touch of thrill, this tour provides solid value. If you’re flexible with weather conditions and eager for a lively, short excursion that covers a lot of ground, it’s worth considering.

If you’re after a fun, scenic, and culturally rich half-day in Madeira, this tour hits quite a few highlights in a manageable package. Just remember to stay flexible, pack a jacket, and be ready for some local flavor and adventure.