West Tour of the Island

If you’re considering a day trip around Madeira’s western side, this West Tour of the Island might be on your radar. While I haven’t taken this exact excursion myself, I’ve gathered enough info and reviews to give you a clear picture of what to expect. It’s a guided journey that promises a good mix of scenic views, charming villages, and natural wonders, all packed into about 8 hours.

What I really like about this tour is its small group size, which often means more attention from your guide and less feeling like just another face in the crowd. Plus, the stops at iconic spots like Cabo Girao and Porto Moniz are definitely highlights that promise stunning views and memorable photo ops.

On the flip side, a potential downside is the long stops—some travelers felt the tour could be a bit lengthy at certain points, which might impact those with limited stamina or tight schedules. Also, keep in mind that food and drinks aren’t included, so plan accordingly if you’re hungry or thirsty during the day.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace and want to see a good chunk of Madeira’s west in one day. It’s ideal if you appreciate scenic landscapes, small-group intimacy, and learning about the island’s local villages and natural landmarks.

Key Points

• Small group setting offers a more personalized experience and better interaction with the guide.
• Stunning vistas from Cabo Girao, the highest skywalk in Europe, are a major highlight.
• Diverse stops include villages, lookout points, natural pools, and scenic plateaus.
• Long stops might feel a bit drawn out to some travelers, so be prepared for a full day.
• Price point at around $46.54 offers good value considering the number of stops and included transportation.
• Informative guides help you understand the history and scenery, making the experience richer.
• Limited included amenities—expect to bring your own snacks or drinks as they aren’t provided.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Experience

Camara de Lobos: The Fishing Village with a Literary Touch

The tour kicks off in Camara de Lobos, a picture-perfect fishing village that’s often called a favorite of Winston Churchill, who painted here. The guide will take you to PICO DA TORRE, a viewpoint offering sweeping views of the bay. This stop is about 30 minutes, and it’s perfect for snapping photos or soaking in the serenity of this quaint spot. According to reviews, this place is both scenic and steeped in local history—truly a must-see.

Cabo Girao: Europe’s Tallest Skywalk and a View That Wows

Next up is Cabo Girao, famous for its glass skywalk. Sitting 589 meters above sea level, the view here is dramatic—an incredible drop to the ocean below and vistas over Câmara de Lobos and Funchal. You’ll probably want to spend about 30 minutes here, taking in the scenery from the safety of transparent glass. Be aware that while the view is breathtaking, the admission ticket isn’t included, so plan to pay on-site if you want to step onto the skywalk.

Ribeira Brava and Serra d’Água: Mountain Village and Water Power

Traveling south, you’ll stop at Ribeira Brava, a lush village along the coast with a lively, scenic vibe. It’s a good spot to stretch your legs and enjoy the view of the river that inspired the town’s name. Following that, the journey takes you through Serra d’Água, where you might learn about the island’s first water power station. This part of the tour offers insights into Madeira’s engineering history and some incredible mountain vistas—about 30 minutes.

Pico Ruivo do Paul da Serra: The Vast Plateau

The tour then takes you to Pico Ruivo do Paul da Serra, a vast plateau at 1500 meters elevation. Covering nearly 24 square kilometers, this is a place to admire not just the scenery but the flora that thrives at this altitude. It’s a peaceful, expansive spot, and again, about 30 minutes is allocated. Many reviews mention the beautiful landscape and the sense of openness here—great for photos and a bit of quiet reflection.

Porto Moniz: Natural Pools and Coastal Beauty

The highlight for many is Porto Moniz, famous for its natural volcanic pools. Spending around 2 hours here, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the crystal-clear waters and rock formations that make this spot so unique. The pools are free to visit, and this stop seems to be the most appreciated, according to reviews, with visitors often mentioning the stunning scenery and relaxing atmosphere.

Miradouro do Veu da Noiva: Waterfall and Cliffs

Just before wrapping up, you’ll stop at Miradouro do Veu da Noiva, known for the Bride’s Veil waterfall and striking views of cliffs and the sea. It’s a quick 30-minute stop, but one that leaves a lasting impression thanks to the dramatic landscape.

Sao Vicente: End on a Scenic Note

Last stop is Sao Vicente, a village surrounded by high cliffs, offering a different vibe from the coastal stops. It’s a good spot to enjoy the sea breeze and learn about local life. You’ll have about 30 minutes here to soak in the atmosphere and take some final photos.

What This Tour Means for You

The transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the long drives between stops. Since the tour is limited to 8 travelers, you’ll likely get more interaction with the guide, which can enhance your understanding of Madeira’s landscapes and history.

Timing is fairly tight but well-paced, with enough stops to stretch your legs and appreciate each location. However, some reviews suggested the stops could be a bit lengthy, so if you prefer a brisk pace, keep that in mind.

The cost of $46.54 per person is quite reasonable considering the number of stops, the small-group experience, and the included transportation. However, remember that food and drinks aren’t included, so bringing some snacks might make the day even better.

The Authenticity of the Experience

According to reviews, guides like Fernando make a real difference, providing insightful commentary and keeping the day engaging. Travelers appreciated the knowledgeable guidance and the beautiful sights, though some felt the tour could be a tad long at times. One review mentioned that the guide’s politics could be a distraction, so if you’re sensitive to that, it’s worth noting.

Most importantly, the views across Madeira’s diverse landscapes—cliffs, villages, plateaus, and coastlines—are what make this tour worthwhile. It offers a good mix of scenery, local culture, and natural beauty in a single day, which can be ideal if you’re on a tight schedule but still want to see a lot.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you love scenic drives and panoramic views, this trip is likely to satisfy. It’s also a good pick for those who want a small-group experience, as it allows more personal interaction. If you enjoy learning about local villages and natural wonders, the stops at Camara de Lobos, Ribeira Brava, and Porto Moniz will hit the spot.

However, if you dislike long pauses or prefer a more intense, fast-paced sightseeing schedule, this might feel a bit drawn out at times. Also, if you’re a foodie, keep in mind that meals are on you—there’s no included lunch or snacks.

This tour is not specifically designed for families with small children, but older kids or teenagers who enjoy nature and scenic views may find it engaging. Always consider the overall pace and the length of the day when planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, the tour includes round-trip transfers from select area hotels in Madeira, in an air-conditioned vehicle.

How long is the tour? It lasts approximately 8 hours, which includes multiple stops and transit time between locations.

Are meals provided? No, food and drinks are not included, so it’s a good idea to bring some snacks for the day.

What is the group size? This tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, giving it a more intimate feel.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are all stops accessible for everyone? Most stops are accessible, but some, like viewpoints or natural pools, may involve uneven terrain—use your discretion based on mobility.

Is this tour suitable for children? While not specifically tailored for families, older children might enjoy the scenic drives and outdoor stops; check with the provider if concerned.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, sun protection, a camera, and some snacks or water for the day.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this West Tour of the Island offers a balanced look at Madeira’s natural and cultural attractions, especially if you appreciate scenic vistas and small-group adventures. It’s a solid choice if you want to maximize your day without feeling rushed, and if you’re okay with a longer, more relaxed pace.

You’ll love the views from Cabo Girao, the tranquility of Porto Moniz’s pools, and the charm of the villages along the coast. The experienced guide, as one reviewer noted, helps bring the landscape and history to life, making the experience more than just a sightseeing run.

If you’re after a well-rounded, affordable way to see Madeira’s west in a single day, this tour is worth considering. Just remember to pack snacks and be prepared for a full, scenic day that covers quite a bit of ground.

Enjoy your trip and savor every view Madeira has to offer!