From Funchal: Madeira Nuns Valley Sightseeing Tuk-Tuk Tour

Madeira’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage come alive on the Nuns Valley Sightseeing Tuk-Tuk Tour from Funchal. Set out on a 3-hour guided adventure, exploring breathtaking viewpoints and enjoying the island’s history. With convenient pickup and local snacks, this tour offers an unforgettable way to discover the hidden gems of the Nuns Valley. What secrets will you uncover on this unique journey through Madeira’s enchanting countryside?

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Key Points

A 3-hour sightseeing tour of Madeira’s Nuns Valley (Curral das Freiras) in a tuk-tuk, starting with pickup from Funchal hotels or cruise ships.
Stops at Pico dos Barcelos Lookout, Curral das Freiras, and Eira do Serrado Viewpoint, with panoramic views and a break for local snacks.
Guided tour of the historic Nuns Valley, where nuns sought refuge during pirate attacks, providing cultural and historical context.
Comfortable transportation in a tuk-tuk, allowing for personalized exploration through Madeira’s narrow streets.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a flexible booking option with a pay later option.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Madeira Nuns Valley Sightseeing Tuk-Tuk Tour is an activity that allows visitors to explore the picturesque Nuns Valley region of Madeira.

Priced from $119.41 per group of up to 2 people, the 3-hour tour is conducted in English and includes pickup from hotels or cruise ships in Funchal.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the tour offers flexible booking with a pay later option.

The tour takes guests on a scenic drive through Funchal and includes stops at Pico dos Barcelos, Curral das Freiras, and Eira do Serrado, providing opportunities to enjoy the stunning views and local culture.

Looking for more options in Madeira? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a pickup from hotels or cruise ships in Funchal, followed by a scenic drive through the city.

Highlights of the itinerary include:

A stop at Pico dos Barcelos Lookout for 20 minutes, offering panoramic views and photo opportunities.
A guided tour and sightseeing at Curral das Freiras, also known as the Nuns Valley, for 30 minutes.
A visit to the Eira do Serrado Viewpoint for 20 minutes, providing stunning vistas of the Curral das Freiras village and the surrounding mountains.
A break with local snacks in Curral das Freiras for an additional 30 minutes.

Finally, the tour returns to Funchal.

Pickup and Departure

The tour begins with complimentary pickup from hotels or cruise ships located in Funchal. Guests are transported in a comfortable tuk-tuk vehicle, a unique mode of sightseeing. The pickup service is available for all participants, ensuring a seamless start to the tour.

| Location | Pickup Time | Drop-off Time |

| — | — | — |

| Funchal Hotels | 9:00 AM | 12:00 PM |

| Funchal Cruise Terminal | 9:15 AM | 12:15 PM |

| Pickup Point | Flexible | Flexible |

The tuk-tuk allows for easy navigation through the narrow streets of Funchal, setting the stage for an immersive and personalized exploration of Madeira’s Nuns Valley.

Pico Dos Barcelos Lookout

After departing Funchal, the tuk-tuk journey begins with a scenic drive that leads to the Pico dos Barcelos Lookout.

Situated 355 meters above sea level, this viewpoint offers panoramic vistas of Funchal Bay. Guests can:

Perched 355 meters above sea level, this vantage point affords panoramic views over the captivating Funchal Bay.

Admire the stunning views overlooking the city and surrounding landscapes
Spot the Desert Islands on clear days
Capture breathtaking photos as a memento of the experience

The Pico dos Barcelos Lookout provides a picturesque introduction to the Nuns Valley tour, setting the stage for the historical and natural wonders that await.

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Curral Das Freiras

Curral das Freiras, a quaint village nestled deep within the island’s mountainous interior, serves as the next stop on the tuk-tuk tour. Guided by the knowledgeable driver, visitors explore the charming streets and learn about the valley’s storied past. The village earned its name, "Nuns’ Valley," after serving as a refuge for nuns during pirate attacks in 1566. Travelers are treated to a scenic break, complete with local snacks and stunning vistas of the surrounding peaks.

| — | — | — | — |

| Tastes | Local snacks | – | – |

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Eira Do Serrado Viewpoint

Ascending the winding mountain roads, the Eira do Serrado Viewpoint emerges as a stunning vantage point high above the Curral das Freiras village. Built in 1962, this scenic overlook provides breathtaking views of the lush, mountainous landscape.

Situated at an elevation of 1,095 meters, the viewpoint offers a panoramic perspective of the Curral das Freiras valley and the surrounding peaks.
On clear days, visitors can gaze upon the dramatic, rugged terrain that envelops the historic Nuns Valley.
The viewpoint serves as a popular stop along the Madeira Nuns Valley Tuk-Tuk Tour, allowing guests to capture memorable photographs of the stunning natural scenery.

Local Snacks and Break

Following the scenic vistas at the Eira do Serrado Viewpoint, the Madeira Nuns Valley Tuk-Tuk Tour includes a stop in Curral das Freiras for a break with local snacks.

During this 30-minute stop, travelers can sample traditional Madeiran delicacies. The guide will explain the history and cultural significance of the Nuns Valley as guests enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Visitors can purchase snacks and refreshments at their own expense, such as bolo de caco (traditional Madeiran flatbread) or poncha (a local alcoholic beverage).

This break provides a chance to rest and take in the valley’s tranquil ambiance.

Key Attractions

Situated 355 meters above sea level, the Pico dos Barcelos Lookout offers panoramic views of Funchal Bay. On clear days, visitors can even spot the Desert Islands in the distance.

At 1,095 meters above sea level, the Eira do Serrado Viewpoint provides stunning vistas of the Curral das Freiras village and the surrounding mountains. This scenic overlook was constructed in 1962.

The Nuns Valley, or Curral das Freiras, holds historical significance as a refuge for nuns during pirate attacks in 1566. This lush, secluded valley is surrounded by verdant vegetation.

Since You Asked

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour’s group size is up to 2 people. According to the details provided, the price is listed "From $119.41 per group (up to 2)", indicating the maximum group size for this tour is 2 people.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour has a flexible booking option, but there’s no information provided about the ability to extend the standard 3-hour duration. Travelers should inquire with the operator about any customization or extension possibilities.

Are Private Tours Available for Larger Groups?

Private tours are available for larger groups. The tour operator offers flexible booking options, allowing customers to customize their experience and accommodate their group size. Pricing may vary depending on the number of participants.

Can I Request a Specific Tuk-Tuk Driver?

Yes, customers can request a specific tuk-tuk driver for their tour. The tour provider aims to accommodate these requests, subject to availability, to ensure a personalized and enjoyable experience for each guest.

Do the Tuk-Tuks Have Any Special Features or Modifications?

The tuk-tuks used in this tour have been specially modified to provide a comfortable and enjoyable ride. They feature padded seats, ample legroom, and weather-resistant canopies to protect passengers from the elements. These customizations enhance the overall sightseeing experience.

The Sum Up

The Nuns Valley Sightseeing Tuk-Tuk Tour from Funchal offers a chance to explore Madeira’s breathtaking landscapes. Visitors can enjoy convenient pickup, stunning viewpoints, a guided visit to Curral das Freiras, and savor local snacks. This 3-hour adventure provides a memorable and immersive experience, allowing travelers to appreciate the rich culture and history of the region.