Madeira: Westside Achadas Cruz, Moniz, Seixal and Fanal

Madeira: Westside Achadas Cruz, Moniz, Seixal and Fanal — An Authentic Day of Natural Wonders

Exploring Madeira’s rugged west coast often feels like flipping through the pages of a storybook—dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and volcanic black sands make it hard to believe such a landscape exists so close to Europe. The Madeira Westside Tour offered by Heartbeat Madeira promises a full day of these unforgettable sights, with a blend of natural beauty, cultural insights, and some fun adventures like a cable car ride down Europe’s steepest slope.

What I love about this experience is how well it balances the must-see highlights with enough time to linger and really enjoy each spot. The guided commentary from Richard, the tour’s friendly and knowledgeable guide, elevates the trip from a simple sightseeing jaunt to a genuine introduction to the island’s soul. Plus, the tour’s focus on authentic experiences—like sampling Poncha, Madeira’s signature drink—adds a layer of local flavor you won’t find in typical cookie-cutter tours.

A potential consideration for travelers: the tour lasts 8 hours and involves a fair amount of driving and walking on sometimes uneven terrain. If you’re not used to long days or have mobility concerns, it’s worth planning accordingly. Also, keep in mind that weather in Madeira is unpredictable, especially in the mountain and forest areas, which might cause some stops or activities to shift at the last minute.

Key points / Takeaways

• Stunning Views & Dramatic Landscapes: From cliffs to waterfalls, every stop offers breathtaking scenery.
• Authentic Local Experience: Sampling Poncha and hearing stories from the guide make it feel genuine.
• Flexible Itinerary with Free Time: Ample moments to explore on your own at key locations.
• Knowledgeable Guide: Richard’s insights make the trip informative and fun.
• Good Value: All transportation, entry fees, and local drinks included in the price.
• Weather Flexibility: Some stops may be affected by weather; the operator adapts accordingly.

Entering the Adventure: Starting Points and Transportation

The tour kicks off in Funchal with multiple pick-up options—whether you prefer the Cable Car Lower Station, your hotel, or a central meeting point like Supermercado Mendonça, there’s flexibility to suit your schedule. Once on board, a comfortable electric vehicle takes you along the scenic roads, with a driver-guide providing commentary along the way.

The electric car is a smart choice for a tour like this—it’s quiet, eco-friendly, and surprisingly spacious considering it’s an electric vehicle (though some reviews mention it can feel a bit cramped for larger groups). The 75-minute ride provides a chance to settle in, get oriented, and start soaking in the views even before reaching your first major stop.

Achadas da Cruz: The Thrill of Europe’s Steepest Cable Car

The highlight of many travelers’ day here is the descent in the cable car down to Achadas da Cruz, a charming spot perched on the cliffs with incredible views of the Atlantic. The cable car descends 600 meters, giving you a bird’s eye perspective on Madeira’s rugged coastline.

Expect a scenic ride with panoramic vistas—some reviews mention the wait time can be unpredictable due to weather or maintenance, so patience is key. Once at the bottom, you’re free to explore, take photos, or relax at a small café. This is a perfect point for a quick photo or a moment to breathe in the salty sea air.

Porto Moniz: Nature’s Waterpark and Volcanic Pools

After ascending back in the cable car, the tour visits Porto Moniz, famed for its natural volcanic pools. These pools are a hit for both their scenic beauty and the refreshing swim they offer. The dark volcanic rocks create a striking contrast to the clear, often turquoise water, providing excellent photo opportunities.

According to reviews, some travelers find the pools to be a real highlight, with one stating, “We had such a fantastic time in the natural pools in Porto Moniz,” and appreciating the opportunity to unwind after a busy morning. Entrance fees aren’t included in the tour price, so plan to budget for that if you want to take a dip.

The time at Porto Moniz is flexible—enough to explore the pools or walk along the seaside promenade, with 1.5 hours allocated. The relaxed pace allows for a leisurely experience, especially appreciated after the busier stops earlier in the day.

Seixal: Black Sand Beaches and Waterfalls

Next, the journey takes you to Seixal, where the black sand beach and waterfalls steal the show. The beach’s dark volcanic sand is a visual reminder of Madeira’s volcanic origins, and many reviews mention how photogenic the area is. You’ll likely have a short stay here, enough to snap some photos or feel the sand between your toes.

Waterfalls nearby add to the mystical feel of this part of the coast. The scenery is so striking that visitors often comment on how it looks like a scene from a fairytale. You might find a quiet cove to relax or simply soak up the views before moving on.

Ribeira da Janela: The Majestic Rock Formation

A quick stop at Ribeira da Janela offers another dramatic sight—a towering, seemingly gravity-defying rock formation rising from the sea. The scenery here is rugged and awe-inspiring, perfect for a few photos and a moment to appreciate Madeira’s raw beauty. The 10-minute stop is brief but leaves a lasting impression.

Fanal Forest: A Fairytale in the Mist

The journey culminates in Fanal National Forest, famous for its mysterious, ancient trees shrouded often in mist. Walking through Fanal feels like stepping into a fantasy landscape—gnarled trees with twisted branches, fog weaving through the forest, and a peaceful silence broken only by the birds.

The guided tour offers insights into the flora and fauna here, and you’ll love the sense of tranquility amid such ancient surroundings. Keep your camera ready; the forest’s mystical atmosphere and the occasional chance to spot local wildlife are highlights.

Poncha and Local Flavor

What better way to end the day than with a glass of Poncha, Madeira’s signature drink? The tour stops at a local bar where you can toast new friends and reflect on the day. Many reviews praise Richard for his storytelling and the authentic experience—“End the trip with a glass of poncha, which was a nice addition,” says one traveler. This small detail adds a warm, local touch to an already memorable day.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

The tour is designed to be a full 8-hour experience, starting early enough to cover all key sites without rushing. The small group size—limited to 8—means plenty of personal attention and a friendly atmosphere. Transportation, guide, entrance fees for the cable car, a bottled water, and a choice of local drink are all included, making it good value considering the comprehensive itinerary.

Keep in mind that the weather can influence the trip—some stops may be affected if conditions are unsafe. The tour operator emphasizes flexibility, and guides will adapt as needed, which is reassuring for spontaneous weather.

It’s best suited for those in reasonably good health who enjoy a mix of outdoor activity and scenic driving. The tour is not suitable for children under 12, and those with vertigo or mobility issues should consider the terrain and activities.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a balanced day of natural beauty, local culture, and engaging commentary, this tour hits the mark. Nature lovers will appreciate the waterfalls, forests, and volcanic pools, while anyone interested in authentic Madeira experiences—like sampling Poncha—will find it rewarding. The small group and knowledgeable guide ensure a personal touch that makes it feel less like a tour and more like exploring with a friend.

Price and Value

Given the inclusion of transportation, entrance fees, drinks, and a guided experience, the price is quite competitive for a full-day tour in such a scenic part of Madeira. The flexible stops, ample free time, and personal guide help justify the cost, making it a worthwhile investment for those wanting a comprehensive, authentic taste of the island’s west coast.

Final Thoughts

This Madeira Westside tour from Heartbeat Madeira offers an excellent way to see the island’s most iconic west coast sights without the hassle of self-driving. It’s thoughtfully curated, with stops covering everything from dramatic cliffs to mystical forests, all delivered with a friendly, informative touch from Richard. The combination of breathtaking scenery, local flavor, and flexible pacing makes it suitable for most travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures and authentic experiences.

It’s especially perfect if you want to maximize your day without feeling rushed, and if you value having a knowledgeable guide to share stories and insights along the way. The day ends beautifully with Poncha, leaving you with memories and photos to cherish long after you’ve left the island.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
Transportation, guide, cable car fee at Achadas da Cruz, a bottle of water, and a choice of local drink (Poncha, beer, or soft drink) plus coffee are included.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the entrance fee for Porto Moniz natural pools is not included, so you should budget for that if you plan to swim.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts about 8 hours, starting early in the day. Starting times vary, so check availability.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 12 or for people with vertigo or mobility issues due to terrain and activity levels.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, sun hat, towel, rain gear, and swimwear are recommended to be prepared for various weather conditions and activities.

Does the weather affect the tour?
Yes, Madeira’s unpredictable weather can lead to cancellations or changes, especially for the cable car and outdoor stops.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personal and relaxed experience.

Is the electric vehicle comfortable?
Most reviews say yes, though some find it slightly cramped for larger groups.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later.

Would I recommend this tour?
Absolutely, especially if you value authentic, scenic, and well-organized days with a friendly guide. It’s a great way to see Madeira’s west coast in depth.

In the end, this tour offers a well-rounded, beautifully curated experience that showcases Madeira’s diverse landscape and genuine charm. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a curious traveler, or someone simply seeking a scenic escape, it’s a day well spent.