South Madeira:, day tour, breathtaking mountain+coastal trip

Discovering the South of Madeira: A Balanced Look at a Breathtaking Mountain and Coastal Trip

If you’re considering a day trip to Madeira that takes you far beyond the usual Funchal sights, this South Madeira day tour promises a captivating mix of mountain views, charming villages, and stunning coastlines. It’s designed for those who want a deeper look at the island’s lesser-known treasures without spending a fortune. From picturesque fishing villages to dramatic sea cliffs, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of southern Madeira’s varied landscapes.

What we really appreciate about this experience are its diverse stops—each one offers something unique, whether it’s the colorful architecture of Ponta do Sol or the peaceful walk through a banana plantation in Madalena do Mar. Plus, the viewpoints from Ponta do Pargo and Cabo are genuinely breathtaking, giving you some of the best photo opportunities on the island.

A minor consideration is that the tour might not be perfect for everyone—the guide’s voice can be hard to hear without a microphone, as a review pointed out. Also, you’ll want to bring comfortable shoes and some cash for optional extras like entry fees or snacks. That aside, if you love scenic drives and discovering local spots rather than just ticking off tourist attractions, this trip can be quite rewarding.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, culture, and relaxed sightseeing—perfect for those who want to see Madeira’s hidden gems without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Variety of Stops: Combines mountain outlooks, fishing villages, plantations, and beaches, offering a comprehensive taste of southern Madeira.
• Great Value for Money: At $35 per person, it covers transportation, a guide, and multiple notable sites.
• Breathtaking Views: From sea cliffs to meadow walks, the scenery is consistently impressive.
• Flexible & Relaxed Pacing: With stops lasting from short visits to 90-minute explorations, there’s plenty of time to soak in each location.
• Not Suitable for Everyone: The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and some walking routes require comfortable shoes.
• Potential for Better Audio: Some travelers noted that a microphone would improve the guide’s commentary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting with Ponta do Sol

The day kicks off with a visit to Ponta do Sol, often touted as one of Madeira’s most charming towns. Picture a cozy village, with colorful houses lining narrow streets, all set against the backdrop of towering sea cliffs. The highlight here is not just the scenery but the interesting architecture, including a 1930s art deco cinema, which adds a dash of history to the visit. We think you’ll enjoy the relaxed vibe here, perfect for a quick stroll or a coffee break.

A traveler from GetYourGuide mentioned, “Sitting in the back of the car, you couldn’t understand the tour guide; it would have been better with a microphone.” This is something to keep in mind—if you’re sensitive to sound, bring earphones or consider whether the group size might be affecting clarity.

The Banana Plantation Walk at Madalena do Mar

Next, the tour takes you to Madalena do Mar, a peaceful fishing village with a legendary backstory—founded, according to local tales, by a Polish king named Vladislau III. Here, you get a gentle walk through banana plantations, which is especially relaxing if you’re into nature or enjoy seeing how local produce is grown. The shade and calm atmosphere make it a lovely break from the busier sightseeing spots.

A guest noted, “We loved our day out on the south coast Madeira to Madalena do Mar,” appreciating how this stop added a different, more tranquil dimension to the day.

Lighthouse at Ponta do Pargo and Meadow Walks

From there, you’ll pass through small villages like Estreito da Calheta and Prazeres, gradually heading toward the Lighthouse at Ponta do Pargo. Standing on top of a sea cliff, this spot offers clear views of turquoise waters below—a photographer’s dream. The beauty of this viewpoint lies not just in the scenery but in feeling the vastness of the Atlantic.

One of the standout moments, according to reviews, is the green meadow walk near Cabo Chapel. Here, you can walk through lush grass toward another viewpoint, giving you a peaceful moment amidst the scenery. The panoramic vistas from this area are truly memorable.

More Great Tours Nearby

Faja da Ovelha and Paul do Mar

Next, the tour continues along the mountainside roads past Faja da Ovelha, where you’ll get an aerial view of the fishing village Paul do Mar. This is a highlight for many, especially because of the breathtaking views—think steep cliffs plunging into the ocean and colorful boats dotting the harbor.

At Paul do Mar, you’ll have about 90 minutes to explore or grab lunch. It’s a chance to relax, perhaps enjoy a local meal, or just wander through a village famous for its waterfalls—many of which flow most of the year. This stop gets high praise for the scenery and peaceful vibe, making it a favorite among visitors.

Calheta: Rum, Marina, and Beach

As the day winds down, the tour visits Calheta, a lively spot where you can visit a sugar cane mill producing rum and molasses—an authentic taste of Madeira’s sugar-producing past. You also get the chance to see the marina and the yellow sand beach, which provides a nice contrast to the mountain landscapes.

One review remarked, “The price and quality were very good,” pointing out that for $35, the experience feels like a great deal considering the variety of sights and stops included.

What to Expect from the Tour

• Transportation & Guide: You’ll be picked up in a comfortable vehicle with a guide who speaks several languages, including English, German, and Portuguese. The tour includes pick-up and drop-off, making logistics simple.
• Duration & Timing: Spanning 8 hours, the tour usually starts at a time you’ll need to check in advance—availability varies. The length allows for a leisurely pace, with enough time at each stop to explore.
• Cost & Extras: The $35 fee is quite reasonable, but note that food, entry fees, or personal expenses like souvenirs are not included. If you want to visit attractions like Cabo Girão’s glass platform, extra fees apply.
• Accessibility & Suitability: Not suitable for wheelchair users or those with certain physical limitations. Some walking routes require comfortable shoes, especially the meadow walk and plantation stroll.

Why we think this tour is worth considering

If you’re keen on scenic drives and discovering less touristy parts of Madeira, this trip offers a good balance of natural beauty, local culture, and impressive vistas. The price point makes it accessible, and the stops are well-chosen to give you a varied experience.

However, if you’re a traveler who relies heavily on audio guides or prefers very structured, heavily narrated tours, you might find the guide’s commentary less audible without a microphone. Also, the tour doesn’t include lunch or entry to attractions, so plan accordingly.

Who would love this tour?

It’s especially suited for those who appreciate stunning views and peaceful villages over busier attractions. Nature lovers, photography fans, and anyone curious about local life will find plenty to enjoy. If you’re traveling with friends or a small group who enjoy scenic drives, this could become a highlight of your Madeira trip.

Final Thoughts

This South Madeira tour provides a solid way to see some of the island’s most striking landscapes and charming villages without breaking the bank. The variety of stops keeps the day interesting, and the scenery—especially from viewpoints like Ponta do Pargo and Cabo—is truly memorable.

While some might wish for better audio or more included activities, the overall value and the beauty of the locations make this a worthwhile option. It’s a flexible, relaxed way to get a good sense of Madeira’s lesser-known southern coast.

If you’re after a laid-back, scenic experience that combines mountain and coastal views with local flavor, this tour deserves a place on your Madeira itinerary.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for wheelchair users or those with certain physical limitations, as some walking routes involve uneven terrain or hillside paths.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, including all stops, transportation, and sightseeing.

Are lunch and entrance fees included?
No, the price covers guided transport and the tour itself. You’ll need to bring cash for optional meals or entry fees to specific attractions.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

What languages does the guide speak?
The guide speaks multiple languages, including English, German, French, Portuguese, Spanish, Afrikaans, and Zulu.

Is this tour good for families?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the stops are generally relaxed and scenic. Consider your children’s comfort with walking and bus rides.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a windbreaker, casual clothes, and some cash are recommended. Don’t forget your camera—views here are picture-perfect.

Are there any hidden costs?
Some attractions or optional extras may require additional fees, but these are not included in the base price.

All in all, this tour offers a well-rounded day exploring Madeira’s natural beauty and quaint fishing villages at a price that’s hard to beat. It’s a good pick for travelers seeking scenic views, local flavor, and a relaxed pace.

You can check availability for your dates here: