Funchal: Valley of the Nuns tour by tuk tuk

An Authentic Adventure into Madeira’s Nuns Valley by Tuk Tuk

This tuk tuk tour in Madeira offers a charming way to explore the island’s stunning interior, especially the Nuns Valley, a remote spot surrounded by nearly vertical cliffs. It’s a brief but memorable experience that combines breathtaking scenery with local history and a touch of adventure. For those wanting a relaxed yet immersive taste of Madeira’s most spectacular landscapes, this trip hits the mark.

What I particularly appreciated about this tour was the personalized guidance from a knowledgeable local guide, along with the chance to stand at the Eira do Serrado viewpoint at 1094 meters. The views over Curral das Freiras, the tiny parish once hidden from pirates, are nothing short of spectacular. And the exclusive nature of a private group means you won’t be jostling with crowds, which enhances the overall experience.

One small consideration is that this isn’t a long tour—just three hours—so it’s perfect for those with limited time or as a highlight in a broader Madeira itinerary. However, if you’re craving a full-day adventure, you might want to combine it with other activities. Also, keep in mind that drinks and cakes aren’t included, so a little snack can make the visit even more enjoyable.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Unique tuk tuk ride offers an intimate way to explore Madeira’s interior and remote valleys.
• Stunning views from the Eira do Serrado viewpoint showcase the island’s dramatic mountain landscape.
• Historical insight about the nuns fleeing pirates in 1566 adds a memorable touch.
• Variety of vegetation seen during the trip highlights Madeira’s natural diversity.
• Guides like Carla are praised for their openness and storytelling, making the tour warm and engaging.
• Flexible booking with free cancellation and pay later options help plan with ease.

Discovering the Valley of the Nuns: A Journey from Funchal

If you’re visiting Madeira, especially from Funchal, this tuk tuk tour offers a delightful way to see the island’s interior without the fatigue of a long drive or a crowded bus. The trip begins with a convenient hotel or cruise ship pick-up, making logistics straightforward. The 3-hour window is perfect for a half-day excursion — long enough to see the sights but not so lengthy that it takes over your day.

The highlight is reaching the Eira do Serrado viewpoint. Sitting at 1094 meters, it’s a place where the clouds often roll in, giving you the sensation of floating above the world. On clear days, you’ll see a vast tapestry of valleys and mountains, but even if clouds obscure the view, the experience of being so high up is exciting. The scenery is an excellent reminder of Madeira’s rugged charm, especially if you’re used to flatter landscapes.

After soaking in the panoramic vistas, the tour descends into Nuns Valley (Curral das Freiras). This small parish is famously isolated, surrounded by almost perpendicular mountain cliffs that made it a perfect hideout for nuns fleeing pirates in the 16th century. The story is fascinating and adds a layer of historical intrigue to the natural beauty. The 19th-century church in the valley offers a glimpse into local religious history, and the chance to sample famous chestnut bread provides a tasty local flavor.

The guided tuk tuk makes it easy to explore without worrying about navigation, and stops for photos are plentiful — a real plus if you love capturing moments. The guide, who was praised for her openness and information, ensures you’re both informed and comfortable throughout.

The Intimate Ride and Its Unique Benefits

Unlike large bus tours, traveling by tuk tuk offers a more personal and flexible experience. You can get closer to the scenery and enjoy the sights without feeling rushed. The small size also means the guide can tailor parts of the commentary to your interests.

The cost of $68 per person fits into a reasonable range for Madeira excursions, especially considering the private nature and included hotel pickup. Think of it as a boutique experience that offers quality over quantity, with the chance to really enjoy the views and learn some local stories.

If you’re someone who loves stunning vistas and appreciates a sense of adventure, this tour strikes a good balance. However, those with mobility issues might want to verify if the tuk tuk accessibility suits their needs, as the tour involves some uneven terrain and steep descents.

Unpacking the Highlights: What Makes This Tour Special

The View from Eira do Serrado: For most travelers, the main draw is the dramatic panorama over Curral das Freiras. The altitude and weather conditions can change the scene — sometimes you’re above the clouds, sometimes under a clear blue sky — but the view is always inspiring.

Historical Significance of Nuns Valley: The story of the nuns fleeing pirates and seeking seclusion adds depth to the visit. It’s not just pretty scenery; it’s a place with a history of resilience and secrecy. The 16th-century church is a tangible link to this past.

Vegetation and Natural Diversity: Madeira’s plants thrive in this environment, offering a rich display of greenery and local flora that you can appreciate during the descent into the valley.

Guided Experience with Local Insights: As the reviews highlight, guides like Carla are praised for their openness and storytelling. Their local knowledge makes the experience richer, transforming a sightseeing trip into a genuine encounter with Madeira’s culture and landscape.

Authentic and Intimate: Traveling in a private tuk tuk means you won’t be part of a large crowd. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, perfect for snapping photos and asking questions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers seeking a short, scenic escape from Funchal, with a penchant for natural beauty, small-group intimacy, and local stories. It’s especially good for those who want a personalized touch and a close-up view of the island’s interior that larger tours can’t provide.

It’s ideal for adventurous couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace and engaging guides. If you’re traveling with children over three, they might enjoy the ride, but check with the provider regarding specific age or weight restrictions.

In terms of value, considering the private guide, hotel pickup, and authentic experience, $68 per person is reasonable, especially as it offers personalized insights and the chance to see Madeira’s iconic mountain scenery.

Price and Practicalities

At $68 per person, this tour is competitive, especially given the inclusions and the intimate nature. It’s a good idea to check availability early, as small-group tours like this can fill up quickly, particularly in peak season.

The duration of 3 hours makes it a flexible addition to your itinerary. You can easily fit it into a morning or afternoon slot. Remember, drinks and cakes are not included, so bringing a small snack might be wise, especially if you want to linger at the viewpoints.

Pickup is included, which simplifies logistics, but note that if you’re on a cruise ship, there’s a $5 port charge payable directly to the provider.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a personalized, scenic, and historically rich glimpse into Madeira’s mountains and valleys, this tuk tuk tour is a charming choice. The stunning views, friendly guides, and authentic atmosphere make it stand out among many generic excursions. It’s especially suitable if you value small group intimacy and want to avoid the crowds.

For those who love stories of resilience and seclusion, or simply want to see Madeira’s natural beauty from a unique perspective, this tour provides a memorable, manageable adventure. It’s a great way to get a sense of the island’s mountain majesty without committing to a full-day trek or a busload of strangers.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it perfect for a half-day activity.

What is included in the price?
Your hotel or cruise ship pickup and drop-off, a guided drive through scenic mountains, stops for photos, and a visit to Nuns Valley.

Are drinks or food included?
No, drinks and cakes are not part of the tour, but you might want to bring some snacks for your visit.

Can I join if I am on a cruise?
Yes, cruise passengers can be picked up at the terminal. Note there’s a $5 port charge payable directly to the local supplier.

What about children?
Children over 3 years old are generally suitable, but check with the provider about specific age restrictions.

Is this tour suitable for someone with mobility issues?
It depends — the tour involves some uneven terrain and steep descent, so confirm with the provider if you have mobility concerns.

How do I book?
You can reserve a spot online, with options to reserve now and pay later. Cancellations are free if made 24 hours in advance.

What is the maximum weight for passengers?
Due to legal restrictions, the combined weight of all passengers cannot exceed 210 kg.

What makes this tour special?
The combination of breathtaking views, historical stories of the nuns, and the personalized tuk tuk experience makes it stand out.

Is it worth the price?
Considering the intimate guide experience, stunning scenery, and hotel pickup, many find it a good value for the quality and authenticity offered.

This tuk tuk tour into Madeira’s Nuns Valley offers more than just sightseeing — it’s a chance to experience a slice of local history and natural beauty in a relaxed, engaging way. Perfect for those wanting a taste of Madeira’s rugged charm without a long day’s commitment.