Madeira: Westside Achadas Cruz, Moniz, Seixal and Fanal

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Starting with the essentials: a quick overview

This full-day Madeira tour offers a well-rounded journey through the island’s spectacular western coast. With an impressive 4.9/5 rating from 137 reviews, it’s clear many travelers find it both enjoyable and value-packed.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the thrilling cable car descent to Achadas da Cruz, the chance to relax in Porto Moniz’s natural sea pools, and the mystical Fanal forest that looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale.

A potential consideration? The tour can be quite long — around 8 hours — so it’s best suited for those with good stamina and a love for diverse scenery.

Overall, if you enjoy natural beauty, small-group experiences, and local insights, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to see Madeira’s highlights without the hassle of self-driving, especially if exploring with a friendly guide sounds appealing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Stunning Scenery: Experience Madeira’s diverse landscapes, from waterfalls to volcanic pools.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable hosts like Richard make the experience enriching and personalized.
Comfortable Transport: Modern electric vehicles ensure a smooth, eco-friendly ride.
Flexible & Well-Organized: Ample time at each stop allows for exploration without feeling rushed.
Authentic Experiences: Enjoy local drinks and learn about Madeira’s culture directly from guides.
Value for Money: All major attractions are included, with even small touches like coffee and biscuits.

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

A comprehensive look at what this tour offers

The Adventure Begins: Pickup and Transportation

Starting from convenient meeting points in Funchal Center, Lido, or Caniço, the tour kicks off with a short transfer in a modern electric vehicle. This electric car isn’t just eco-friendly — it also keeps the ride quiet and comfortable, making long stretches more enjoyable. With a small group limited to 8 participants, you’ll find your experience more intimate and personalized.

The transportation includes all the major driving legs, with the driver/guide sharing tidbits about Madeira’s history and culture along the way. Expect to be riding along scenic coastal roads, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos of rugged cliffs and ocean views.

Achadas da Cruz: Europe’s Steepest Cable Car Descent

The highlight for many is the cable car ride down 600 meters into Achadas da Cruz. This descent isn’t just a practical way to reach this cliffside village — it’s an adrenaline rush offering spectacular views of the sheer cliffs and Atlantic Ocean.

Once at the bottom, you’ll have time for a photo stop and guided sightseeing, soaking in the quiet beauty of this remote spot. The guides often share interesting tidbits about the area’s geology and how the local inhabitants live in harmony with the landscape, making this stop both scenic and educational.

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Porto Moniz: Natural Pools & Ocean Relaxation

Next, the tour heads to Porto Moniz, famed for its black volcanic rocks and clear, natural sea pools. Here, you’ll get about 90 minutes to relax, swim, or just watch the waves crash into the pools. One reviewer noted, “The rhythm of the ocean lulls us into a state of pure relaxation,” and you’re likely to feel the same.

Entry to the pools isn’t included in the tour price, so you might want to bring extra cash or plan to return independently if you wish to swim. The pools are well-maintained, and their volcanic origin adds an otherworldly vibe that’s perfect for photos or a refreshing dip.

There's plenty more to explore in Madeira

Seixal: Black Sand Beach & Waterfalls

Our journey continues to Seixal, a stunning black sand beach surrounded by lush greenery. A quick 20-minute stop here lets you take in the scenic views and perhaps capture a few shots of the striking dark sands against bright blue water.

You’ll also visit nearby waterfalls, which cascade into the sea, creating a picture-perfect scene. Reviewers appreciated the ample free time to explore this area, with one saying, “We had enough time at each site to take photos and explore a little.”

Ribeira da Janela: Majestic Rock Formations

Next is the rock formation at Ribeira da Janela, an iconic natural spectacle. The towering rocks rising from the sea seem to defy gravity. This short stop (about 10 minutes) offers fantastic photo opportunities and a chance for a quick walk along the coast.

Several guests mention how the guide’s commentary made these stops even more engaging, sharing fun facts about the geology and local lore.

Fanal Forest: A Fairytale Landscape

The highlight for many nature lovers is Fanal National Forest, a mystical woodland famous for its ancient, oddly shaped trees and swirling mists. It’s like stepping into a storybook, with some visitors describing it as “straight out of a fairy tale.”

The 45-minute walk includes a guided tour, giving insight into the flora and fauna, and an opportunity to enjoy the tranquil, almost surreal atmosphere. Some reviews mention the chance to see wildlife; although sightings aren’t guaranteed, the environment feels alive and special.

The Perfect Ending: Local Poncha & Cultural Touches

No Madeira experience is complete without a sip of Poncha, the island’s signature spirit mixed with honey, lemon, or other flavors. The tour concludes at a local bar, where you’ll toast your day with this traditional drink, often accompanied by local biscuits and a friendly atmosphere. Reviewers rave about this thoughtful touch, calling it a great way to wrap up the day and solidify new friendships.

Flexibility & Practical Details

The entire itinerary is designed for comfort and variety. Stops are spaced out to give enough time for exploration, photos, and relaxing without feeling hurried. The duration of 8 hours is long but well-paced, based on reviews indicating travelers felt they received good value for the time spent.

The tour operates with live guides in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, ensuring language barriers are minimized. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before, adding peace of mind to your planning.

What’s included and what’s not

The price covers transportation, the cable car fee at Achadas da Cruz, a bottle of water, a local drink (Poncha, beer, or soft drink), and coffee. This adds a nice touch, making the experience feel personal and thoughtful.

Not included are the entrance fee for Porto Moniz pools and lunch. So, you might want to bring extra cash or plan to dine independently either before or after the tour.

Who is this tour perfect for?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy natural landscapes and small-group settings. The active stops and long day might be tiring for young children or those with mobility issues, as it’s not wheelchair accessible and involves some walking.

Reviewers consistently mention the knowledgeable, friendly guides like Richard who make the day special with local stories and tips. If you’re someone who loves to have a full, varied day of sightseeing with ample time to take photos and relax, this tour will hit the mark.

The bottom line: is it worth it?

For the price, this tour offers a comprehensive taste of Madeira’s wild west, from rugged coastlines to lush forests. The small group size and personalized approach mean you won’t feel lost in a crowd. The guide’s enthusiasm and local insights elevate the experience, making it not just a sightseeing trip but a cultural adventure.

You’ll love the diverse stops, all thoughtfully curated to showcase the island’s natural beauty. The transportation, including the electric vehicle, adds a modern, eco-friendly touch that enhances comfort. Plus, the little extras — coffee, biscuits, and Poncha — make it all the more memorable.

This tour is ideal for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and curious explorers wanting to see Madeira’s best-kept secrets with a knowledgeable guide by their side. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a well-organized, authentic experience that hits all the highlights.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation from meeting points in Funchal Center, Lido, and Caniço is included, along with a ride in a modern electric vehicle for the entire day.

What stops are part of the itinerary?
Stops include Achadas da Cruz, Porto Moniz, Seixal, Ribeira da Janela, and Fanal Forest, with optional visits to natural pools and scenic viewpoints.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
The tour fee covers the cable car at Achadas da Cruz. Entrance to Porto Moniz pools is not included, so plan accordingly if you want to swim.

How long does the tour last?
The whole experience lasts around 8 hours, with time allocated for sightseeing, relaxing, and photography at each stop.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children?
This tour is not suitable for children under 12, and it’s not recommended for those with vertigo or wheelchair users due to walking and vehicle constraints.

In essence, this Madeira tour offers a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and comfort, guided by passionate locals who want you to see the very best of the island’s western coast. Whether you’re snapping photos of volcanic rocks, soaking in natural pools, or wandering mystical forests, it promises a day full of memorable sights and stories.

You can check availability for your dates here: