EAST MADEIRA:,Peaks, Forest Walk,Thatched Roofs, Rum Factory

The East Madeira tour offers a captivating blend of natural splendor and cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy the stunning alpine views from Pico Arieiro and explore the serene laurel forests of Ribeiro Frio. The charming village of Santana showcases the island’s traditional thatched-roof houses, while a visit to a historic rum factory in Porto Da Cruz allows guests to savor the local spirits. This diverse itinerary promises an unforgettable journey through Madeira’s remarkable landscapes and time-honored traditions.

Key Points

• The East Madeira tour offers panoramic views of mountain peaks, a levada walk through a lush laurel forest, and visits to traditional thatched roof houses and a historic sugar mill producing rum.
• The tour’s highlight is the Pico Arieiro, an 1,818-meter alpine terrain that provides breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountain peaks, ravines, and laurel forests.
• The Ribeiro Frio portion of the tour includes a relaxing walk along a levada, where visitors can observe the native flora and fauna in a tranquil, world heritage-listed setting.
• The tour also includes a stop in Santana, known for its distinctive triangular thatched roof houses that reflect the traditional architecture and cultural heritage of the region.
• The final stop is the historic sugar mill in Porto Da Cruz, where visitors can witness the traditional distillation process and taste various rum and molasses products.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The East Madeira tour, priced at £25.23 per person, offers an 8-hour guided excursion through the island’s picturesque landscapes.

Enjoy the picturesque landscapes of Madeira with an 8-hour guided tour priced at £25.23 per person.

Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.

The tour includes stops at the scenic Pico Arieiro peak, the Laurel forest of Ribeiro Frio, the traditional thatched-roof houses in Santana, and the historic rum distillery in Porto da Cruz.

Transport is via minibus, though the tour may be altered due to weather or safety concerns, and it’s not suitable for individuals over 150 kg.

Pico Arieiro: Alpine Terrain Views

One of the highlights of the East Madeira tour is the visit to Pico Arieiro, the third-highest peak on the island at 1,818 meters. From the summit, visitors are treated to awe-inspiring alpine terrain views. The panorama encompasses rugged mountain peaks, deep ravines, and lush valleys carpeted in endemic laurel forest. It’s a true feast for the senses.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Elevation | 1,818 meters |

| Terrain | Rugged, alpine |

| Viewpoint | Panoramic vistas of mountain peaks, ravines, and laurel forests |

| Access | Minibus transport from pick-up point |

The guide leads guests on a captivating exploration of this dramatic natural landscape, offering insights into the island’s unique geology and ecology.

Ribeiro Frio: Laurel Forest Levada Walk

After taking in the sweeping vistas from Pico Arieiro, the tour continues to the World Heritage site of Ribeiro Frio.

This laurel forest is known for its levada, or irrigation canal, winding through the lush greenery. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing walk along the levada, taking in the serene atmosphere and spotting native flora and fauna.

The laurel trees, part of the region’s unique ecosystem, provide a tranquil backdrop. This stop offers a peaceful respite from the scenic drives, allowing travelers to enjoy Madeira’s natural beauty.

Santana: Traditional Thatched Roof Houses

Nestled along the northern coast of Madeira, Santana is renowned for its distinctive triangular thatched roof houses.

These charming structures are a testament to the island’s traditional architecture and have become a symbol of Madeira’s cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the quaint village and learn about the history and construction of these unique homes.

Some key features of the Santana houses include:

1. Thatched roofs made from locally sourced materials.

2. Triangular shape, with walls sloping down to the ground.

3. Wood and stone construction, blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.

4. Compact design, reflecting the practical needs of rural living.

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Porto Da Cruz: Sugar Mill and Rum Production

Porto da Cruz, an old sugar mill, produces renowned rum and molasses. This historic facility has operated for over a century, leveraging the region’s sugarcane abundance. Visitors can tour the mill and witness the traditional distillation process that has been passed down through generations. The facility offers tastings of their signature rums, which range from light and smooth to robust and complex. Guests can also purchase bottles to take home as souvenirs.

| Product | Description | Price |

| — | — | — |

| White Rum | Light and crisp, perfect for mixing cocktails | £20 |

| Dark Rum | Rich, robust flavor with notes of caramel and oak | £25 |

| Molasses | Thick, sticky byproduct of the rum distillation | £8 |

Ponta Do Rosto: Coastal and Island Vistas

Towering at the northeastern tip of Madeira, Ponta do Rosto affords sweeping vistas of the island’s northern and southern coastlines.

On clear days, visitors can spot:

1. The dramatic sea cliffs and rocky beaches of Madeira’s northern shore.

2. The bustling port of Caniçal, a major hub for Madeira’s export trade.

3. The distant silhouette of Porto Santo island, Madeira’s sister island.

4. The rugged, mountainous terrain that defines Madeira’s dramatic landscape.

Perched atop this lofty headland, Ponta do Rosto offers a panoramic perspective on the natural wonders that make Madeira such a captivating destination.

Transportation and Accessibility

The East Madeira tour provides minibus transport from a pre-arranged pick-up point, ensuring convenient and hassle-free travel throughout the day.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for individuals over 331 lbs (150 kg) due to weight restrictions.

The guide also reserves the right to alter the route if weather or safety concerns arise, ensuring the tour runs smoothly and safely.

Guests should come prepared with a windbreaker, credit card, cash, and a charged smartphone.

Prohibited items include high-heeled shoes, weapons, oversized luggage, intoxication, chewing gum, fireworks, and alcohol in the vehicle.

Inclusions, Exclusions, and Guest Feedback

Although the East Madeira tour includes guided transportation, it doesn’t cover the cost of lunch, refreshments, or entrance fees.

Guests should come prepared with:

• A windbreaker for the cooler mountain air

• A credit card and cash for any purchases

• A charged smartphone to capture the beautiful scenery

• Comfortable shoes, as high heels aren’t permitted

Based on 20 reviews, the tour has an impressive 4.8/5 overall rating. Customers highlight the knowledgeable guides and enjoyable experiences, with the transportation and value for money also scoring highly.

The tour provider reserves the right to modify the route due to weather or safety concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour operator’s policy states that only service animals are permitted, as the tour involves transportation and accessibility that may not be suitable for pets.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is not wheelchair accessible, as the guide reserves the right to alter the route due to weather or safety concerns. The tour also has a weight limit of 150 kg, which may pose accessibility challenges.

Are There Any Language Options Besides English?

The tour offers multilingual guides, with options for English, Portuguese, Spanish, and German. Customers can choose their preferred language when booking to ensure a seamless and informative experience throughout the tour.

Can I Customize the Itinerary for My Group?

The tour operator allows some customization of the itinerary for private groups. However, they reserve the right to alter the route due to weather or safety concerns. Guests should discuss any specific requests with the operator when booking the tour.

How Do I Get to the Pick-Up Point for the Tour?

The tour operator offers pickup from a pre-arranged location. Customers can check the specifics of their pickup point when booking the tour. They’ll need to arrive at the designated spot to join the minibus transport for the East Madeira tour.

The Sum Up

The East Madeira tour offers a captivating mix of natural wonders and cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking alpine views, a tranquil forest walk, traditional architecture, and savor local rum. With its diverse attractions and accessibility, this tour provides a well-rounded exploration of Madeira’s stunning landscapes and rich heritage, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to enjoy the island’s unique charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: