Tucked away in Madeira’s northern reaches, a realm of enchantment awaits. Boaventura, São Vicente, and Ponta Delgada beckon with their lush valleys, cascading waterfalls, and quaint villages. Set out on a journey that unveils the island’s hidden gems, where the air is fragrant with the scent of coffee and the taste of Poncha, a beloved local libation. This intimate exploration, limited to just eight fortunate souls, promises an immersive experience guided by knowledgeable locals who’ll unveil the secrets of Madeira’s offbeat splendor. Prepare to be captivated by the untamed beauty and rich cultural tapestry that define this northern paradise.
Key Points
- The tour visits the northern region of Madeira, including the villages of Boaventura, Sao Vicente, and Ponta Delgada, showcasing the island’s hidden gems.
- Highlights include a coffee break with panoramic views at Fajã dos Padres, a visit to a chapel resembling Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia, and a scenic descent into the village of Serra de Água.
- Participants can enjoy a Poncha tasting, a traditional Madeiran beverage, in Boaventura and explore the charming local customs and flavors of the region.
- The tour is designed for small groups of up to 8 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience with a knowledgeable local driver-guide.
- The tour offers flexible starting and drop-off locations in Funchal, making it easily accessible for participants.
Tour Overview
This Madeira North Offbeat tour offers an 8-hour adventure that takes you on a captivating journey through the island’s lesser-known, yet stunning, northern region.
With a maximum group size of 8 participants, you’ll embark on an intimate exploration of charming villages, scenic viewpoints, and local cultural gems.
Along the way, you’ll indulge in delightful Poncha, the island’s iconic alcoholic beverage, and savor a local coffee break amidst breathtaking landscapes.
The tour is available in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, and boasts a flexible cancellation policy, making it an enticing choice for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in Madeira.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this tour promises to unveil the island’s hidden wonders.
Itinerary Highlights
Embarking on this Madeira North Offbeat tour, visitors can look forward to an exciting itinerary that showcases the island’s hidden gems.
From the tranquil Fajã dos Padres, where they’ll savor a refreshing coffee break amid scenic vistas, to the panoramic viewpoint of Espigão, the tour offers a captivating blend of natural wonders and culture.
Highlights include the local chapel resembling Barcelona’s iconic Sagrada Familia, the scenic village of Serra de Água nestled in a deep valley, and the breathtaking Miradouro da Encumeada viewpoint at 1007 meters altitude.
Visitors will also explore the famous church tower of São Vicente and the charming hidden village of Ponta Delgada, ending the day with a delightful taste of the local Poncha drink in Boaventura.
Starting Locations
Visitors can conveniently start the Madeira North Offbeat tour from various pick-up points around Funchal, including the Shuttle Bus Drop off point, the Funchal Cable Car station, the Supermercado Mendonça, and the Hotel Porto Mare. Whether you’re staying near the city center or the Lido area, the tour’s flexible starting options make it easy to join the adventure. The tour’s carefully curated itinerary ensures you’ll experience Madeira’s hidden gems, from the charming village of Serra de Água to the breathtaking viewpoint at Miradouro da Encumeada. Get set for a delightful day exploring the northern reaches of this enchanting island!
| Starting Point | Address | Departure Time |
|---|---|---|
| Shuttle Bus Drop off point | Funchal, Madeira | 9:00 AM |
| Funchal Cable Car | Rua do Galo, 9000-107 Funchal | 9:15 AM |
| Supermercado Mendonça | Av. Infante D. Henrique 17, 9000-017 Funchal | 9:30 AM |
| Hotel Porto Mare | Estrada Monumental 175, 9000-100 Funchal | 9:45 AM |
Key Stops
The tour winds its way through the picturesque north coast, where travelers first stop for a delightful coffee break and panoramic views at the stunning Fajã dos Padres.
Continuing on, the group then marvels at the breathtaking Espigão, a vantage point overlooking the lush valley below.
Next, they visit the charming Sagrada Familia, a local chapel that draws comparisons to Barcelona’s iconic Gaudi masterpiece.
The journey then descends into the scenic village of Serra de Água, nestled in a deep valley.
These captivating stops provide a feast for the senses, whetting the appetite for the delectable local poncha awaiting the group in Boaventura at the tour’s end.
- Sip aromatic coffee while gazing at the stunning Fajã dos Padres.
- Admire the sweeping valley views from the Espigão lookout.
- Discover the Sagrada Familia, a hidden gem resembling Gaudi’s work.
- Explore the picturesque village of Serra de Água, tucked in a verdant valley.
Drop-off Locations
After exploring the captivating sights along the north coast, the tour wraps up with convenient drop-off locations, ensuring a seamless return for participants. They can opt to be dropped off at the Funchal Cable Car, the shuttle bus point, their hotel at Porto Mare, or the Supermercado Mendonça, allowing everyone to continue their Madeira adventure as they please.
| Drop-off Locations | Description |
|---|---|
| Funchal Cable Car | Return to the heart of Funchal |
| Shuttle Bus Point | Easily connect to your next destination |
| Hotel Porto Mare | Seamless transfer back to your accommodation |
| Supermercado Mendonça | Convenient for further shopping or exploration |
With these flexible options, you can wrap up your North Offbeat tour and embark on your next Madeiran escapade with ease and convenience.
Included Features
Travelers on this North Offbeat tour consistently enjoy a range of thoughtfully curated inclusions that enhance their Madeiran experience.
From the convenient transportation provided from key meeting points in Funchal, to the knowledgeable local driver-guide who brings the island’s hidden gems to life, every detail has been meticulously considered.
The small touches, like a refreshing bottle of water and a chance to savor a traditional Poncha, local beer, or soft drink, make the day even more delightful.
And with insurance coverage in accordance with local laws, you can explore with complete peace of mind.
- Seamless transportation from Funchal
- Friendly, informative local guide
- Refreshing local beverage and coffee
- Insurance for your comfort and security
Important Information
Comfortable shoes, water, and sun protection are essential for this off-the-beaten-path adventure, which explores Madeira’s rugged northern landscapes.
While the itinerary is carefully curated, weather unpredictability may necessitate some flexibility in the day’s activities.
Those with limited mobility, including children under 12 and wheelchair users, may find certain aspects of the tour challenging. However, the tour is designed to accommodate most travelers, with restrictions on mobility scooters, vaping, electric wheelchairs, and smoking in the vehicle.
With a passion for showcasing Madeira’s hidden gems, the tour promises to delight the senses, from the panoramic viewpoints to the savory local delicacies.
Embark on this unforgettable journey and uncover the enchanting northern region of this beautiful island.
Customer Feedback
According to the tour’s outstanding 5-star review, travelers thoroughly savored the breathtaking viewpoints, uncovered the region’s hidden gems, and reveled in the knowledgeable guidance provided throughout the day’s adventures.
Guests were enamored by:
- The jaw-dropping panoramic vistas that left them in awe
- The charming villages that captivated their senses with local customs and flavors
- The expert driver/guide’s infectious passion for sharing Madeira’s offbeat treasures
- The perfect balance of planned stops and spontaneous discoveries that kept the experience fresh and exciting
This North Offbeat tour is a must for anyone seeking an immersive, unforgettable exploration of Madeira’s stunning natural beauty and cultural richness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?
Pets aren’t allowed on this tour, unfortunately. The small group size and transportation wouldn’t be suitable for furry friends. However, you’ll have a wonderful time exploring Madeira’s hidden gems and breathtaking landscapes with the knowledgeable local guide.
What if I Have Dietary Restrictions?
If you have dietary restrictions, the tour operator will gladly accommodate your needs! Simply let them know in advance, and they’ll ensure you enjoy delectable local fare that aligns with your dietary preferences. The tour is all about savoring Madeira’s authentic flavors.
Is There a Discount for Senior Citizens?
Though the tour doesn’t advertise senior discounts, you’re welcome to inquire about any special pricing when booking. The friendly staff would be delighted to ensure you enjoy the delectable local flavors and stunning views to the fullest.
Can I Pay in a Different Currency?
Absolutely! You can pay for this delightful tour in a variety of currencies, so you don’t have to worry about conversion rates. The friendly staff will happily accommodate your preferred payment method, ensuring a seamless booking experience.
Is There a Guided Audio Tour Available?
There’s no guided audio tour available, but you’ll enjoy an engaging, knowledgeable local guide who’ll bring the island’s history and hidden gems to life through captivating commentary as you explore Madeira’s stunning north coast.
Recap
Explore Madeira’s hidden gems in the north, where lush valleys, charming villages, and local traditions await.
Savor Poncha and local coffee while immersed in stunning landscapes.
This intimate adventure offers a personalized experience, blending discovery and relaxation amidst Madeira’s treasures.
Don’t miss the opportunity to venture off the beaten path and uncover the true essence of this captivating island.
