Ponta do Sol, a charming town on the sun-drenched island of Madeira, sets the stage for an unforgettable nature adventure. Venturing beyond the quaint village, a guided hike immerses you in a tapestry of volcanic landscapes and lush green valleys, offering a captivating glimpse into the region’s natural and cultural heritage. As you wind through sugarcane fields and a colonial aqueduct, the promise of a picnic lunch featuring local delicacies only heightens the anticipation for the stunning Ribeira Garça, the hike’s rewarding climax. This full-day excursion promises an intimate exploration that will leave you yearning to uncover more of Madeira’s splendor.
Key Points
- A full-day nature hike from Ponta Do Sol with a knowledgeable guide, lasting 6 hours and covering breathtaking volcanic landscapes and verdant valleys.
- Small group size capped at 8 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience with guides fluent in multiple languages.
- Picnic lunch amidst stunning vistas of the green valleys, featuring locally-sourced delicacies and a tranquil ambiance.
- Challenging terrain with a steep, winding descent and sharp curves, requiring careful navigation but rewarding with immersion in the region’s natural wonders.
- Seamless experience with pickup and drop-off from accommodations, transportation, and liability insurance, as well as free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour Highlights
Hikers will be awed by the breathtaking views of volcanic mountains and verdant valleys that unfold during this full-day nature trek.
As they trek along, they’ll enjoy a picnic lunch with a stunning vista of the lush green valleys below.
The highlight of the hike is the incredible zigzag path that leads to the Ribeira Garça, offering a unique perspective on the landscape.
Along the way, explorers will discover the charming village of Coculi, home to the prominent Santo Crucifixo parish church.
With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, hikers will learn about the diverse local flora and fauna that thrive in this picturesque corner of Ponta Do Sol.
Duration and Cost
The full-day nature hike costs a manageable €90.00 per person and lasts a robust 6 hours, providing ample time to take in Ponta Do Sol’s captivating landscapes.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a nature enthusiast, this excursion offers unparalleled value, allowing you to explore the region’s volcanic mountains, verdant valleys, and winding trails at a leisurely pace.
With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll discover hidden gems, learn about the local flora and fauna, and savor a picnic amidst the breathtaking scenery.
This all-encompassing experience guarantees an unforgettable day in the heart of Ponta Do Sol’s captivating natural wonders.
Group Size and Languages
With a small group size capped at 8 participants, this nature hike promises an intimate and personalized experience. Knowledgeable guides fluent in French, Portuguese, English, and Spanish ensure all explorers can immerse themselves fully in the captivating wonders of Ponta Do Sol.
The tour’s highlights include:
- Hiking along breathtaking views of volcanic mountains and valleys
- Enjoying a picnic with stunning vistas of the lush, verdant landscape
- Discovering the charming village of Coculi and its striking parish church
This multilingual, boutique-style adventure delivers an unforgettable journey through Ponta Do Sol’s natural splendor, allowing you to fully appreciate the region’s captivating blend of culture, history, and untamed beauty.
Starting Point and Route
The tour begins at the scenic riverbed of Vila de Ribeira Grande, where participants pass through charming houses, lush banana plantations, and a towering windmill before reaching the picturesque village of Coculi and its prominent Santo Crucifixo parish church.
From there, the group will traverse sugarcane fields to a slender aqueduct built by the Portuguese in 1956, then discover the quaint settlement of Boca das Ambas Ribeiras nestled between two valleys.
The hike culminates with a winding cobblestone path that leads to the tiny hamlet of Selado do Mocho and the breathtaking Ribeira Garça, offering panoramic views of the verdant landscape.
Notable Sights and Stops
Along the way, hikers witness the towering parish church of Santo Crucifixo in Coculi, a prominent landmark that stands as a testament to the island’s rich religious heritage. Traversing sugarcane plantations, they encounter a slender aqueduct, a remnant of the Portuguese colonial era, before discovering the quaint settlement of Boca das Ambas Ribeiras nestled between the two valleys.
The journey takes them up a zigzagging cobbled path that leads to the tiny settlement of Selado do Mocho and the stunning Ribeira Garça.
Hikers are treated to:
- Breathtaking views of volcanic mountains and verdant valleys
- A picnic with panoramic vistas of the lush greenery
- A chance to enjoy the island’s captivating natural beauty.
Picnic and Lunch
Midway through the hike, participants are treated to a picnic lunch amidst the stunning vistas of the green valleys, where they can savor locally-sourced delicacies while taking in the serene, panoramic beauty surrounding them.
Nestled in the heart of the lush countryside, the picnic spot offers an unparalleled dining experience. Savory sandwiches crafted with artisanal breads and fresh, organic produce from nearby farms delight the palate.
Juicy fruits and tangy cheeses pair perfectly with crisp, refreshing beverages to quench the thirst after the invigorating trek. As they leisurely enjoy their meal, hikers are immersed in the tranquil ambiance, surrounded by the gentle rustling of leaves and the distant calls of native birds, creating an unforgettable culinary adventure in nature.
Terrain and Difficulty
As the picnic comes to an end, hikers brace themselves for the next challenge – the terrain ahead. The hiking path winds steeply, with a hard descent that requires careful, surefooted navigation.
Though not recommended for children under 12, the trail offers a thrilling adventure for the able-bodied. The path:
- Curves sharply, testing hikers’ balance and agility.
- Descends rapidly, calling for caution and steady footing.
- Traverses lush, verdant landscapes, rewarding trekkers with breathtaking vistas.
The guide’s expertise proves invaluable, as they expertly navigate the treacherous terrain, imparting local knowledge and ensuring the group’s safety. With each step, the hikers are immersed in the rugged beauty of Ponta Do Sol’s natural wonders.
Inclusions and Cancellation
The tour package includes pickup and drop-off from the participants’ accommodations, as well as transportation and liability insurance, ensuring a seamless and worry-free experience.
Plus, the services of a professional guide, well-versed in the area’s history and natural wonders, are provided throughout the hike. This allows hikers to fully enjoy the breathtaking scenery and gain deeper insights into the local flora and fauna.
For those who need to change their plans, the tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility and peace of mind. With these inclusions and the option to cancel, participants can focus on enjoying the stunning natural beauty of this guided hike.
Recap
This immersive nature hike in Ponta Do Sol offers an unparalleled glimpse into the region’s volcanic landscapes and cultural heritage.
Traversing charming villages, lush valleys, and a colonial aqueduct, the tour culminates in a rewarding trek to the stunning Ribeira Garça.
Accompanied by a delectable picnic lunch, this intimate small-group experience is an exceptional way to discover the natural and culinary delights of this captivating destination.
