Eira Do Serrado / Nuns Valley (Curral Das Freiras)

Perched atop the Eira do Serrado at 1,095 meters, visitors are treated to a breathtaking panoramic view of the stunning Curral das Freiras, or Nuns Valley. This secluded mountain valley, surrounded by steep peaks, is renowned for its dramatic landscape and rich history. Exploring this picturesque region allows travelers to enjoy the local culture and cuisine, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking natural beauty and authentic experiences. However, the true allure of Eira do Serrado lies in what awaits beyond the viewpoint.

Key Points

• The Eira do Serrado viewpoint offers panoramic vistas overlooking the Curral das Freiras valley, a remote mountain village in Madeira.
• The tour includes a visit to the village of Curral das Freiras, where visitors can explore the local parish church and sample traditional cuisine.
• The 3.5-hour tour departs from Funchal and provides transportation, with pickup and drop-off service included.
• The tour can accommodate up to 15 participants and is offered in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Portuguese, and French.
• Booking options include a pay-later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This tour is 3.5 hours long and costs from $27.31 per person.

It’s limited to 15 participants and offered in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and French. Pickup is included, with drivers waiting up to 5 minutes after the scheduled time.

Highlights include panoramic views from Pico dos Barcelos and Eira do Serrado, as well as a visit to the village of Curral das Freiras to explore the parish church and enjoy local cuisine.

Travelers can reserve now and pay later, and cancellations up to 24 hours in advance qualify for a full refund.

The tour operates rain or shine, though it’s not recommended for those with mobility issues or pregnant women.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a visit to Pico dos Barcelos, a 355-meter viewpoint that offers panoramic vistas of Funchal.

Next, the group explores Eira do Serrado, a 1,095-meter viewpoint overlooking the picturesque Curral das Freiras valley.

The highlights include:

Descending to the village of Curral das Freiras, visiting the local parish church, and enjoying traditional cuisine featuring sour cherry and chestnut.

• Descending to the village of Curral das Freiras

• Visiting the local parish church

• Enjoying traditional cuisine featuring sour cherry and chestnut

• Witnessing the striking natural scenery of the valley

• Gaining insights into the history and culture of this unique destination

This immersive experience showcases Madeira’s breathtaking landscapes and the charming village of Curral das Freiras.

Booking Information

Two booking options are available for this tour. Customers can reserve now and pay later. This allows them to secure their spot without needing to pay upfront.

Alternatively, they can opt for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides flexibility should plans change.

Booking can be done online through the tour provider’s website. Payment is accepted via credit card.

Early booking is recommended as group size is limited to 15 participants. This tour is popular and availability can be limited, especially during peak seasons.

Important Notes

Although suitable for most travelers, this tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility impairments or pregnant women.

The tour operates rain or shine, so participants should dress appropriately for the weather.

Key important notes include:

• Suitable for most travelers, but not recommended for those with mobility issues or pregnant women

• Tour runs regardless of weather conditions, so proper attire is advised

• Pickup service provided, with drivers waiting up to 5 minutes after the scheduled departure time

• Participants can reserve now and pay later

• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

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Customer Feedback

What do the tour’s customer reviews say? Based on 4 reviews, the Curral das Freiras tour receives an impressive 5-star rating.

Reviewers highlight the amazing viewpoints and knowledgeable guides. One customer notes the "breathtaking scenery" at Eira do Serrado and Pico dos Barcelos.

Another praises the "wonderful experience" of visiting the village and trying the local cuisine.

The reviews emphasize the tour’s ability to showcase Madeira’s natural beauty and cultural charms.

Customers appear highly satisfied with the value, logistics, and execution of this half-day excursion to Nuns Valley.

Exploring Pico Dos Barcelos

After ascending to the 355-meter peak of Pico dos Barcelos, the tour participants are rewarded with panoramic vistas of Funchal and the surrounding coastline.

The viewpoint offers spectacular sights, including:

Sweeping views of the lush, verdant hills cascading down to the sparkling azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

• Sweeping views of the lush, verdant hills that cascade down to the sparkling azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean

• The vibrant red-tiled roofs and winding streets of Funchal’s historic city center

• The dramatic cliffs and rocky promontories that characterize Madeira’s dramatic coastline

• Distant glimpses of neighboring islands peeking through the hazy horizon

• The chance to truly appreciate the island’s breathtaking natural beauty from this elevated vantage point.

Discovering Eira Do Serrado

Next, the tour heads to the stunning Eira do Serrado viewpoint, perched at an impressive elevation of 1,095 meters.

Gazing out, visitors are treated to awe-inspiring vistas of the dramatic Curral das Freiras valley below. Surrounded by towering cliffs, this remote village was once a refuge for nuns fleeing Moorish pirates.

Guests have the chance to soak in the serene ambiance and capture breathtaking photos. The guide shares the history and significance of this unique landscape, sparking wonder in each traveler.

After taking in the panoramic views, the group descends to explore the village of Curral das Freiras.

Visiting Curral Das Freiras

The group then descends to the village of Curral das Freiras, a remote community nestled at the heart of the dramatic Curral das Freiras valley.

They visit the parish church and enjoy local cuisine featuring sour cherry and chestnut.

The highlights include:

• Exploring the charming village streets

• Admiring the traditional architecture

• Sampling regional dishes at a local eatery

• Learning about the village’s unique history and culture

• Taking in the tranquil atmosphere of this isolated mountain settlement

This picturesque valley and its resilient community offer a fascinating glimpse into Madeira’s rich heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Mode of Transportation Is Used During the Tour?

The tour includes pickup service, where drivers wait up to 5 minutes after the scheduled time to transport participants in vehicles. The group size is limited to 15 travelers, providing a personalized experience.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour doesn’t offer customized itineraries. It follows a set route with scheduled stops at key viewpoints and the village of Curral das Freiras. Travelers can’t modify the included activities or length of the experience.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t offer any discounts for children or seniors. The price is a flat rate of $27.31 per person, regardless of age. There’s no option to customize the itinerary either.

Can the Tour Be Booked in Any Other Language Besides the Ones Listed?

The tour can only be booked in the languages listed: English, Spanish, Portuguese, and French. There’s no option to book the tour in any other languages besides these.

Is There a Limit on the Amount of Luggage or Belongings Participants Can Bring?

The tour doesn’t have any specified limitations on the amount of luggage or belongings participants can bring. Travelers are free to bring what they need for the 3.5-hour excursion.

The Sum Up

Eira do Serrado’s breathtaking panoramic views of the stunning Curral das Freiras (Nuns Valley) offer an unforgettable experience. Visitors can explore the picturesque village, sample traditional cuisine, and enjoy the area’s unique culture. The viewpoint is a highlight for travelers seeking natural beauty and local charm, making it a must-visit destination.

You can check availability for your dates here: