Madeira: Nuns Valley – Curral Das Freiras

Madeira’s Nuns Valley, or Curral das Freiras, is a captivating destination that draws visitors seeking a glimpse into Portugal’s natural wonders. This tour offers an immersive experience, taking guests through breathtaking viewpoints before arriving at the serene village nestled within dramatic cliffs. Exploration of the charming stone houses and local markets promises to unveil the valley’s unique geological and cultural treasures. For those intrigued by the allure of this remote and picturesque corner of Portugal, the journey ahead holds much to discover.

Key Points

• The Nuns Valley – Curral Das Freiras tour explores a picturesque valley in Madeira, Portugal, with scenic viewpoints like Pico dos Barcelos and Eira do Serrado.
• The highlight of the tour is the visit to Curral das Freiras, a deep valley nestled between dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation.
• The village of Curral das Freiras, once a refuge for nuns, offers a tranquil atmosphere for visitors to explore its charming stone houses and winding streets.
• The geological formation of Curral das Freiras is believed to be the result of erosion or volcanic activity, resulting in a captivating landscape.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, but not lunch, and is not suitable for those with mobility issues or over 309 lbs (140 kg).

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Madeira Nuns Valley – Curral Das Freiras Tour

The Madeira Nuns Valley – Curral Das Freiras tour offers visitors a chance to explore the stunning natural landscape of this remote and picturesque valley in Madeira, Portugal.

The tour starts with a shuttle bus from a designated drop-off point and takes travelers to several scenic viewpoints, including the Pico dos Barcelos Lookout and the Eira do Serrado Viewpoint at an altitude of 1095 meters.

The highlight is the visit to the Curral das Freiras, a deep valley resembling a volcanic crater.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off but excludes lunch and isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues.

Exploring the Pico Dos Barcelos Lookout

After leaving the shuttle bus, visitors first arrive at the Pico dos Barcelos Lookout, which offers stunning panoramic views over the city of Funchal. This viewpoint, situated at an elevation of 350 meters, provides a breathtaking perspective of the vibrant capital city and the surrounding rugged landscape. The lookout features several observation platforms, allowing visitors to take in the sweeping vistas comfortably. To enhance the experience, a detailed information table is available, shedding light on the key landmarks visible from this vantage point.

| Location | Elevation | Highlights |

| — | — | — |

| Pico dos Barcelos Lookout | 350 m | Panoramic views of Funchal |

| Eira do Serrado Viewpoint | 1095 m | Scenic overlook of Curral das Freiras |

| Curral das Freiras | – | Deep volcanic crater-like valley |

| Shuttle Bus Drop-off Point | – | Start and end of the tour |

| Hotel Pickup/Drop-off | – | Included in the tour |

Discovering the Eira Do Serrado Viewpoint

Leaving the Pico dos Barcelos Lookout, visitors make their way to the Eira do Serrado Viewpoint, situated at an impressive elevation of 1095 meters.

This vantage point offers stunning panoramic views of the Curral das Freiras valley, a dramatic landscape formed by erosion or volcanic activity.

Visitors can gaze out over the deep, verdant chasm, marveling at the sheer cliffs and lush vegetation that characterize this natural wonder.

The Eira do Serrado provides an unparalleled perspective on the remarkable Curral das Freiras, a highlight of the Nuns Valley excursion.

Taking in the Curral Das Freiras Village

From the awe-inspiring Eira do Serrado Viewpoint, visitors descend into the captivating Curral das Freiras village, nestled deep within the verdant valley.

This centuries-old settlement, once a refuge for nuns, now enchants travelers with its charming stone houses, winding streets, and tranquil atmosphere.

Visitors can wander through the village, admiring the traditional architecture, visiting the local market, and seeing the serene pace of life.

Wander the village, admiring the architecture, visit the local market, and immerse in the serene pace of life.

The deep valley, which some believe was formed by volcanic activity, adds to the village’s dramatic and otherworldly ambiance, making it a truly memorable part of the Nuns Valley experience.

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Understanding the Geological Formation of Curral Das Freiras

The formation of the Curral das Freiras, or Nuns Valley, is believed to have resulted from either erosion or volcanic activity.

The deep valley’s resemblance to a volcano crater suggests it may have been formed by volcanic forces. Alternatively, it could have been carved out over time by natural erosion processes.

At an altitude of 1095 metres, the Eira do Serrado viewpoint offers stunning panoramic vistas of the Curral das Freiras village nestled within the valley.

Whether carved by nature or forged by fire, this dramatic geological feature is a captivating highlight of the Madeira landscape.

Inclusions and Exclusions of the Tour

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, providing convenient transportation to and from the starting point.

Convenient transportation is provided with hotel pickup and drop-off for the tour’s starting point.

However, the tour doesn’t include lunch, which visitors will need to arrange separately.

Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, individuals over 309 lbs (140 kg), or those with mobility impairments.

These restrictions are important considerations for potential participants to keep in mind when booking the Nuns Valley – Curral Das Freiras tour.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

According to the provided information, the Nuns Valley – Curral Das Freiras tour has an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars based on 2 customer reviews.

The feedback offered some suggestions for improvement, with one reviewer from Denmark recommending more walking opportunities. However, the other Danish reviewer didn’t provide any specific feedback.

Booking Details and Availability

While the Nuns Valley – Curral Das Freiras tour can be booked directly through the provider, it offers a reserve now and pay later option for added convenience.

The tour is priced from $26.11 per person and is valid for 1 day. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, but excludes lunch and isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, individuals over 309 lbs (140 kg), or those with mobility impairments.

Booking is recommended as the tour has an overall rating of 4.5/5 based on 2 customer reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed during the tour. However, participants should be respectful and avoid disrupting the experience of others. It’s best to check with the tour guide for any specific guidelines or restrictions on photography.

Can I Bring My Own Lunch or Snacks?

You can bring your own lunch or snacks on the tour. The tour doesn’t include lunch, so you’re free to bring your own food and enjoy it during the stops along the way.

Are There Any Fitness Requirements for This Tour?

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, individuals over 309 lbs (140 kg), or those with mobility impairments. However, it doesn’t have any other specific fitness requirements, so guests can participate as long as they can manage the walking involved.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour?

The tour duration can’t be extended, but you can explore the area at your own pace after the tour. The package is valid for 1 day, and there’s no option to lengthen the scheduled itinerary.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour, but it may not be suitable for individuals over 309 lbs (140 kg) or those with mobility impairments, as the itinerary includes some hiking and uneven terrain.

The Sum Up

The Madeira Nuns Valley – Curral Das Freiras tour offers a captivating journey through one of Portugal’s most picturesque landscapes. Visitors are treated to breathtaking viewpoints, the tranquil village of Curral das Freiras, and the chance to enjoy the valley’s serene ambiance and geological wonders. With convenient hotel pickup and a range of inclusions, this tour is a must-do for anyone exploring the natural beauty of Madeira.

You can check availability for your dates here: