Madeira’s Cabo Girão Skyglass and Toboggan tour offers travelers an unparalleled adventure that blends exhilarating experiences with breathtaking natural beauty. From the thrilling toboggan ride down winding streets to the vertigo-inducing Skywalk suspended 580 meters above the sea, this 5-hour tour promises to leave visitors in awe. As they navigate the island’s stunning viewpoints, they’ll be treated to panoramic vistas that showcase Madeira’s dramatic coastline and lush interior. With a mix of heart-pounding thrills and serene moments, this tour promises to be the highlight of any visit to this enchanting Portuguese archipelago.
Key Points
- This 5-hour tour offers a thrilling toboggan ride down the historic Tobogã do Monte, as well as a visit to the Cabo Girão Skywalk – a glass platform suspended 580 meters above the sea.
- The tour includes stops at scenic viewpoints like Pico dos Barcelos and Eira do Serrado, allowing visitors to take in Madeira’s dramatic landscapes and vistas over the city of Funchal.
- Visitors can explore the charming village of Curral das Freiras, including its 17th-century church and the opportunity to taste local specialties like ‘Bolo de Mel’ (honey cake).
- The tour is limited to 5 participants, providing an intimate experience, and is offered in both English and Portuguese languages.
- Fees include essential insurance, transportation, and mineral water, while the toboggan ride and Cabo Girão entry are additional costs.
Tour Overview
The Cabo Girão Skyglass and Toboggan tour offers a thrilling and panoramic exploration of Madeira’s natural wonders, blending traditional sled-riding with breathtaking viewpoints. Priced from $56.64 per person, this 5-hour adventure takes guests on an immersive journey, limited to just 5 participants to ensure an intimate experience.
Offering tours in both English and Portuguese, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at convenient locations around Funchal. Highlights include the iconic Tobogã do Monte descent, stunning vistas from Pico dos Barcelos and Eira do Serrado, a visit to the charming village of Curral das Freiras, and the heart-stopping Cabo Girão Skywalk, suspended 580 meters above the sea.
With a flexible cancellation policy and positive customer feedback, this tour is an absolute must for those seeking an unforgettable Madeiran experience.
Itinerary Highlights
Kicking off the Cabo Girão Skyglass and Toboggan tour, thrill-seekers will embark on the traditional Tobogã do Monte descent, sledding through Madeira’s winding streets for an exhilarating start to the day.
Next, they’ll reach the Pico dos Barcelos viewpoint, where they’ll be treated to spectacular vistas over Funchal and the surrounding mountains.
The journey continues to the Eira do Serrado, a stunning overlook at 1095 meters, providing breathtaking panoramas of the Curral das Freiras valley.
Visitors will then explore the charming village of Curral das Freiras, seeing local culture and cuisine.
The grand finale? The Cabo Girão Skywalk, a glass platform suspended 580 meters above the sea, delivering truly jaw-dropping views.
Toboggan Ride
As participants embark on the Cabo Girão Skyglass and Toboggan tour, they’ll kick off the experience with an exhilarating ride on the traditional Tobogã do Monte, sledding through Madeira’s winding streets for an adrenaline-fueled start to the day.
Seated on a wooden sleigh, travelers will glide down the steep, twisting roads, reaching thrilling speeds as they navigate the historic city. This iconic Madeiran activity offers a unique perspective and an unforgettable thrill, setting the tone for a day of breathtaking views and culture.
With the wind in their hair and the scenery whizzing by, guests are sure to feel the rush of this quintessential Madeira experience.
Pico Dos Barcelos
After the thrilling toboggan ride, visitors ascend to the scenic viewpoint of Pico dos Barcelos, which offers spectacular panoramas over the vibrant city of Funchal and the surrounding mountainous landscapes.
From this elevated vantage point, guests can enjoy Madeira’s breathtaking natural beauty, captivated by the island’s dramatic terrain and the sweeping ocean views that stretch out before them.
The viewpoint’s strategic location allows travelers to appreciate the full grandeur of Funchal’s amphitheater-like setting, nestled between the imposing mountains and the vast Atlantic.
This 20-minute stop serves as a perfect photo opportunity, showcasing the remarkable contrast between Madeira’s lush green hills and the shimmering blue waters that surround the island.
Eira Do Serrado
The tour then whisks visitors up to the Eira do Serrado viewpoint, situated at an elevation of 1,095 meters, where they’re treated to stunning vistas over the Curral das Freiras valley. This dramatic, mountainous landscape offers a breathtaking panorama, with jagged peaks and lush, verdant slopes stretching out as far as the eye can see. Visitors can wander along the viewing platforms, snapping photos and soaking in the majestic scenery. The experience is further heightened by the cool, crisp mountain air and the peaceful tranquility of this remote location. It’s a truly awe-inspiring stop that highlights the natural wonders of Madeira in all their glory.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Elevation | 1,095 meters |
| View | Spectacular vistas over Curral das Freiras valley |
| Landscape | Dramatic, mountainous terrain with jagged peaks and lush slopes |
| Atmosphere | Cool, crisp mountain air and peaceful tranquility |
| Duration | Approximately 30 minutes |
Curral Das Freiras
From the lofty heights of Eira do Serrado, the tour then descends into the charming village of Curral das Freiras, a historic community nestled within the dramatic, mountainous landscape of Madeira.
Visitors are captivated by the village’s quaint streets, lined with traditional stone houses and punctuated by the spire of its historic church, which stands as a testament to the resilience and enduring spirit of the local people.
Highlights of Curral das Freiras include:
- Exploring the 17th-century Church of Nossa Senhora da Encarnação, with its ornate interior and stunning views.
- Sampling local delicacies like the famous ‘Bolo de Mel,’ a honey cake that’s a specialty of the region.
- Visiting the village’s lively market, where artisans showcase their handmade crafts and produce.
- Immersing oneself in the tranquil, unhurried pace of life that has defined this mountain community for centuries.
Cabo Girão Skywalk
Capping off the tour’s breathtaking vistas, visitors make their way to the renowned Cabo Girão Skywalk, a glass platform suspended 580 meters above the crashing waves below, offering awe-inspiring panoramic views over the rugged Madeira coastline.
Stepping out onto the transparent glass, guests are rewarded with a dizzying perspective, as the lush hills and valleys stretch out in the distance.
The skywalk’s precarious position elicits equal parts exhilaration and trepidation, a thrilling chance to confront one’s fears while soaking in Madeira’s natural grandeur.
It’s a fitting culmination to a tour that immerses travelers in the island’s striking landscapes and captivating culture.
Inclusions and Fees
For this tour, the inclusions and additional fees are clearly outlined to help travelers budget accordingly. The package includes essential insurance and fees required by Portuguese law, along with transportation in a climate-controlled vehicle and complimentary mineral water.
However, there are a few extra fees to consider, such as the cost of the iconic Toboggan ride and entry to the Cabo Girão viewpoint. Here’s a breakdown of the fees:
- Toboggan ticket: €27.50 (1 person), €35 (2 people), €52.50 (3 people)
- Cabo Girão viewpoint entry: €2 per person
- Meals, drinks, and personal expenses aren’t included in the tour price.
- Expect potential wait times for the Toboggan during busy days, especially with cruise ships in Funchal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Suitable for Families With Young Children?
The tour may not be ideal for families with young children. It involves a thrilling toboggan ride and a glass skywalk with high elevations, which could be too daring or intimidating for young kids. However, older children may find the experience exciting and memorable.
Can I Bring My Dog on the Tour?
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour operator’s policy is to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants. While they understand the desire to bring pets, the logistics and liability make it impractical for this particular experience.
Are Audio Guides Available for Non-English/Portuguese Speakers?
Audio guides aren’t available, but the tour provides English and Portuguese translation services. The knowledgeable guides ensure all participants can fully enjoy the stunning views and thrilling Toboggan ride, regardless of their language abilities.
Is the Tour Available on Weekends?
The tour is available on weekends, allowing visitors to enjoy the thrilling toboggan ride and breathtaking Cabo Girão Skywalk even when schedules are more flexible. Guests can experience Madeira’s natural wonders at their convenience during the week or on the weekend.
Is There an Option to Visit Additional Sights Not Listed in the Itinerary?
Yes, the tour offers flexibility to visit additional sights not listed in the itinerary. Guests can discuss their interests with the knowledgeable guides, who’ll happily customize the experience to suit their preferences and ensure they make the most of their time on Madeira.
Recap
The Cabo Girão Skyglass and Toboggan tour is a thrilling and visually stunning adventure in Madeira.
Gliding down winding streets on a wooden toboggan, taking in breathtaking viewpoints, and standing on a glass platform suspended high above the sea – it’s an unforgettable experience that combines the island’s rich history and natural beauty.
Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush or simply breathtaking vistas, this tour delivers an unparalleled day of excitement and exploration.
