Toboggan Ride & Madeira Wine Tasting Tour

If you’re considering a half-day adventure in Madeira, the Toboggan Ride & Madeira Wine Tasting Tour offers a mix of fun and flavor that many visitors find appealing. It’s a curated experience designed to showcase some of the island’s most iconic sights and traditions — from the exhilarating toboggan descent to tasting the world-famous Madeira wine. For anyone who enjoys a combination of local culture, scenic vistas, and a dash of adrenaline, this tour could be a good fit.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it balances lively activities with authentic local flavor. You’ll get to enjoy a historic toboggan ride that’s been a Madeira tradition since 1850, plus a visit to the bustling Funchal market, which is bursting with color and local produce. And, of course, the Madeira wine tasting at a historic vineyard offers a chance to sample something truly special.

A possible consideration? The tour has a duration of 5 hours, so it’s not for those wanting a full-day deep dive. It’s also limited to small groups of up to 8 people, which is great for personalized attention but might not suit travelers seeking a larger tour experience. This tour is especially suited for curious travelers who want a taste of Madeira’s traditions without spending the whole day on one activity.

Who would this suit best? If you prefer a mix of light adventure and cultural exploration, and you enjoy tasting local drinks and foods, this tour fits the bill. It’s also good for travelers who value small-group experiences and hotel pickups.

Key Points

• Authentic Madeira Experience: Combines a traditional toboggan ride with local wine tasting.
• Convenient & Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, offering a more personal vibe.
• Includes Hotel Pickup & Drop-off: Making logistics simpler for travelers.
• Diverse Stops: From vibrant markets to quaint fishing villages with scenic views.
• Cost-Effective: The price includes the toboggan ride and wine tasting, offering good value.
• Some Extra Costs: Entrance fee at Cabo Girao is not included (€2).

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on This Tour

This tour is designed to give you a well-rounded glimpse of Madeira’s traditions, scenery, and flavors in about five hours. We’ll start with the hotel pickup, which is a real plus—no need to worry about how to get to the spots yourself. The first stop is the Farmers’ Market in Funchal, a lively hub where you’ll see a dazzling display of fish, exotic fruits, and local crafts. The market’s design, dating back to the 1930s, adds a charming historical touch, and the colorful flower stalls are a delight—some visitors mention feeling tempted to buy flowers just for souvenirs.

Next, we head to Câmara de Lobos, a fishing village that Ernest Hemingway loved for its quaint charm. The village feels like stepping back in time, with whitewashed houses, colorful boats, and a relaxed vibe. Here, you can soak up the atmosphere and maybe sample Poncha, the local drink, at one of the cozy bars. The views of the harbor and the surrounding hills are pretty spectacular, and the story that the village was named after monk seals is a fun tidbit.

The highlight for many is the Monte Toboggan Ride. You’ll descend 2 km (about 1 mile) in a wicker basket sled, pushed by experienced drivers using rubber-soled boots to steer and brake. The ride lasts around 10 minutes, but the thrill sticks with you long after. Travelers often describe it as “exhilarating,” with the safety measures like cushioned seats and experienced drivers making it accessible and fun for most. The ride offers fantastic views of Funchal as you glide downhill, providing a unique perspective of the city’s landscape.

Finally, the tour concludes with a visit to the Henrique e Henrique wine lodge, where you get to taste some of Madeira’s best fortified wines. The lodge, dating back to 1850, is a historic site that owns the island’s largest vineyards. The wine tasting is a relaxed way to appreciate Madeira’s rich winemaking tradition and is well-liked by visitors who want a genuine sample of local flavor.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Stop 1: Pickup at Your Location

The tour offers five pickup options across Funchal, Câmara de Lobos, Caniço, Ponta do Sol, and Estreito da Calheta. If you’re staying outside these areas, just ensure to wait outside your accommodation or specify your pickup point. The driver will usually wait no longer than 5 minutes after the scheduled pickup time, so punctuality is important.

Stop 2: Farmers’ Market in Funchal

This is more than just a shopping stop; it’s an introduction to Madeira’s vibrant local life. The market’s architecture, designed in the 1930s, with its yellow façade and azulejo tiles, adds charm. You’ll see a colorful array of fish, fruits, and flowers, and the upper floor features seasonal vegetables and fruits, making it a feast for the senses. Previous reviews mention the scenes of fish like scabbard fish with large eyes and sharp teeth—definitely not your typical market sight, but part of the authentic experience.

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Stop 3: Câmara de Lobos

This fishing village is a favorite for its picturesque harbor, lively shops, and local atmosphere. It’s a place where you can appreciate Madeira’s traditional way of life. The village’s whitewashed houses and colorful boats create a classic coastal scene. If you’re into local drinks, here’s a bonus—sample Poncha, a potent mix of sugarcane spirit, honey, and lemon. The village also makes for a great photo stop, with plenty of opportunities for capturing the charm of Madeira.

Stop 4: Monte

On the way to the toboggan, you’ll enjoy scenic views of Funchal and the surrounding hills. Monte itself is a hilltop neighborhood with a lush, garden-filled setting. The ride down the toboggan is the main event here, and it’s a unique way to experience Madeira’s sense of adventure and local ingenuity.

Stop 5: Wine Tasting at Henrique e Henrique

The final stop offers a relaxed tasting session at one of the island’s most historic wine lodges. It’s a chance to sample Madeira’s fortified wines, which are renowned worldwide. The lodge’s history and large vineyards add authenticity to the experience, making it not just a tasting but a little lesson in Madeira’s winemaking craft.

The Value of This Tour

At $102 per person, this tour packs in quite a bit of memorable experiences. The cost includes the toboggan ride, which is often highlighted as a fun, unique activity, plus the wine tasting, both of which are main draws. The small group size ensures personalized attention and makes the experience feel more intimate.

The hotel pickup and drop-off are convenient, especially if you’re unfamiliar with local transport. Since transportation and guide service are included, what you pay covers most of the main attractions without hidden costs, aside from the optional €2 fee at Cabo Girao.

While the tour doesn’t include meals or additional entrance fees, the stops provide enough variety to keep you engaged. The Cabo Girao viewpoint, which costs €2 to enter, isn’t part of the main schedule but can be visited if time allows.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you’re after a lighthearted, cultural snapshot of Madeira, with a dash of adventure. It’s suitable for travelers who want to see local markets, enjoy scenic views, and indulge in wine without dedicating an entire day. It’s also great for those who appreciate small-group tours that feel more personalized.

If you’re not keen on activities like the toboggan ride or if your mobility is limited, this might not be the best fit. However, for most able-bodied travelers looking for a fun, authentic taste of Madeira, it hits the right notes.

FAQs

Is the toboggan ride safe?
Yes, the toboggan ride has been a Madeira tradition since 1850 and is conducted by experienced drivers. Safety seats and cushioned seating are provided, making it accessible and secure for most participants.

Are hotel pickups available?
Absolutely. The tour offers pickups from a range of locations in Funchal, Câmara de Lobos, Caniço, Ponta do Sol, and Estreito da Calheta. Just make sure your accommodation is outside a villa or apartment if you’re not on the list.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour price covers the toboggan ride, wine tasting, hotel or port pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, and transportation. Entrance to Cabo Girao is extra (€2).

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 5 hours, including all stops and transportation. Starting times vary, so check availability and confirm your schedule ahead of time.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility helps if your travel plans are uncertain.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, the toboggan ride may not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues. It’s best to assess individual comfort levels.

Final Thoughts

The Toboggan Ride & Madeira Wine Tasting Tour offers a nice balance of adventure, culture, and relaxation. It’s especially appealing if you’re keen to experience Madeira’s unique traditions, taste its renowned wines, and see its colorful markets and charming villages all in one go. The small-group format and hotel pickup make it convenient and intimate, and the price reflects a good value for the variety of experiences included.

If you’re someone who enjoys combining light thrills with cultural insights and authentic local flavors, this tour is likely to tick many boxes. It’s not a full-day extravaganza, but it packs enough into five hours to make it both memorable and manageable, especially if you’re trying to maximize your time in Madeira.

For those looking for a relaxed, engaging, and distinctly Madeiran experience, this tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to explore. Just remember to come with an open mind, a sense of adventure, and an appetite for good wine.

Enjoy your trip to Madeira — and if you decide to take this tour, I hope it becomes one of your favorite quick escapes on the island.

You can check availability for your dates here: