Madeira Best of the West Day Tour

Madeira’s western region boasts some of the island’s most stunning landscapes, and the Best of the West Day Tour offers a chance to explore them. Travelers can witness the dramatic Cabo Girão, stroll through the UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest, and discover the natural pools of Porto Moniz. With convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off, this tour provides a comprehensive experience guided by a professional. Those seeking to enjoy Madeira’s natural beauty won’t want to miss this captivating adventure.

Key Points

• A comprehensive sightseeing tour that showcases the highlights of Madeira’s western region, including the highest cape in Europe and UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest.
• Highly-rated tour with a 4.7 out of 5-star rating and 95% traveler recommendation, featuring a Badge of Excellence.
• Includes visits to picturesque villages, scenic viewpoints, and natural pools, with a professional guide and hotel pickup/drop-off.
• Suitable for first-time visitors or those short on time, with a maximum group size of 55 travelers.
• Offers optional pickup from locations outside of central Funchal, with infant seats available.

Overview

The Madeira Best of the West Day Tour is a comprehensive sightseeing experience that allows first-time visitors or those short on time to explore the western highlights of the picturesque island of Madeira.

Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars from 628 reviews, the tour boasts a 95% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence.

During the full-day tour, guests will visit the highest cape in Europe, Laurissilva forest, natural pools, and more, with a professional guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, and a maximum group size of 55 travelers.

Tour Highlights

The full-day tour from Funchal includes several highlights that showcase the stunning natural landscapes and charming villages of western Madeira.

Travelers will visit the highest cape in Europe, Cabo Girão, standing at 1,900 feet. They’ll explore the lush Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO-listed site.

The tour also stops at the natural pools of Porto Moniz and the picturesque villages of Seixal, Ribeira Brava, and Porto Moniz.

Along the way, scenic viewpoints like Encumeada and Véu da Noiva provide opportunities for breathtaking photos.

Lunch in Porto Moniz is at the traveler’s own expense.

Inclusions

The Madeira Best of the West Day Tour includes a professional guide, all taxes and fees, and hotel pickup and drop-off from central Funchal hotels at no additional cost.

The tour also offers optional pickup from other locations, but this incurs an extra charge.

Infant seats are available, and the maximum group size is 55 travelers.

This comprehensive package ensures a hassle-free experience as you explore the stunning landscapes of western Madeira, from the highest cape in Europe to the UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest and the natural pools of Porto Moniz.

Itinerary

The tour begins with a 8:30 am pickup from a central Funchal hotel.

The first stop is Cabo Girão, the highest cape in Europe at 1,900 feet. After a 20-minute visit, the tour continues to Ribeira Brava for a 30-minute stop.

Then it’s off to Paul da Serra for a 10-minute photo opportunity.

The highlight is a 1.5-hour stop at Porto Moniz to explore the natural pools.

Next is Seixal for a 20-minute visit before reaching the Encumeada viewpoint for another 20 minutes.

The tour wraps up around 5 pm at the original meeting point.

Cabo Girão: Highest Cape in Europe

One of the tour’s first stops is Cabo Girão, Europe’s highest cape towering at an impressive 1,900 feet above the Atlantic Ocean.

Visitors can:

1. Gaze out at the dramatic cliffs plunging into the deep blue waters.
2. Admire the panoramic views of Funchal and the surrounding coastline.
3. Stroll along the suspended glass skywalk for an adrenaline-fueled experience.
4. Snap photos of the picturesque fishing villages nestled in the coves below.

The stop at Cabo Girão offers a breathtaking introduction to Madeira’s rugged western landscapes, whetting the appetite for the adventures to come.

Ribeira Brava and Paul Da Serra

From Cabo Girão, the tour continues inland towards the verdant Ribeira Brava valley.

The bus winds through the lush countryside, passing quaint villages and towering peaks. At Ribeira Brava, travelers disembark to explore the charming town center, with its whitewashed buildings and picturesque harbor.

Next, the tour ascends to the high plateau of Paul da Serra, a unique ecological zone blanketed in laurel forest. Here, guides point out the unique flora and fauna of this UNESCO-listed landscape.

After a brief photo stop, the journey continues towards the dramatic coastal town of Porto Moniz.

Porto Moniz: Natural Pools and Village

What awaits travelers as the tour continues to the coastal town of Porto Moniz? The highlight here is the natural volcanic pools, offering a refreshing respite from the day’s exploration.

Visitors can:

1. Gaze at the dramatic coastline and crashing waves.
2. Dip into the crystal-clear seawater pools, warmed by volcanic activity.
3. Stroll the charming village, admiring its traditional architecture.
4. Enjoy a lunch break at one of the local seafood restaurants (at own expense).

After rejuvenating in Porto Moniz, the tour continues to other scenic stops before returning to Funchal in the late afternoon.

Seixal, Encumeada, and the Return to Funchal

Leaving the refreshing natural pools of Porto Moniz behind, the tour moves on to the next stops – the quaint village of Seixal and the scenic Encumeada viewpoint.

In Seixal, travelers have around 20 minutes to wander the charming streets and soak in the village’s tranquil atmosphere.

Next, the coach ascends to the Encumeada viewpoint, offering panoramic vistas of Madeira’s mountainous interior.

After soaking in the sweeping views, it’s time to head back to Funchal, arriving at the meeting point around 5 pm.

The full-day tour showcases Madeira’s diverse landscapes and highlights, providing an immersive experience for first-time visitors.

Ask Away

What Type of Transportation Is Provided for the Tour?

The tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, with an option for pickup at other locations for an additional cost. Infant seats are also available, catering to families with young children.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Individual Preferences?

The tour can be customized to an extent, as it offers optional pickup from locations outside central Funchal for an extra cost. However, the main itinerary and stops are fixed for the group experience.

Are There Any Discounts or Promotions Available for the Tour?

The tour operator offers discounts for children, seniors, and groups. Special promotions may be available seasonally or through travel packages. Customers should inquire about any current deals when booking the tour.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Travelers With Disabilities?

The tour offers accessibility features like infant seats and hotel pickup/drop-off, but travelers with disabilities should check for specific accommodations. It’s best to contact the tour operator in advance to discuss any special needs or requirements.

Can the Tour Be Booked in Languages Other Than English?

The tour can be booked in multiple languages, including English, German, French, and Spanish. Travelers should check with the tour operator about language options when making their booking to ensure their preferred language is available.

Final Words

The Madeira Best of the West Day Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the island’s breathtaking natural wonders. From the highest cape in Europe to the UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest, this tour provides an unforgettable experience guided by professionals. With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, it’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking to discover Madeira’s stunning landscapes in a single day.