Madeira: Westside Achadas Cruz, Moniz, Seixal And Fanal

Madeira’s captivating westside beckons with a tapestry of natural wonders, from the thrilling cable car descent at Achadas Cruz to the serene sea pools of Porto Moniz. Discover the enchanting Fanal Forest and its primeval landscapes, where unique wildlife flourishes. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, this small-group tour promises to unveil the island’s hidden gems, leaving you awestruck by Madeira’s stunning diversity. Whether you seek adventure or tranquility, this excursion offers an unforgettable experience that will linger long after you’ve returned home. Prepare to embark on a journey that will ignite your senses and leave you yearning for more.

Key Points

This 8-hour guided tour explores the breathtaking westside of Madeira, visiting destinations like Achadas da Cruz, Moniz, Seixal, and Fanal.
Highlights include cable car rides, natural sea pools, waterfalls, and the primeval Fanal Forest with its unique wildlife.
The tour is limited to 8 participants and includes complimentary transportation, refreshments, and expert local commentary.
Certain participants, such as children under 12, individuals with vertigo, or wheelchair users, may not be suitable for this tour.
Guests are advised to bring appropriate gear, as the itinerary may be adjusted due to Madeira’s unpredictable weather conditions.

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Overview and Booking Details

This tour offers travelers a chance to explore the breathtaking westside of Madeira, encompassing the scenic Achadas Cruz, Moniz, Seixal, and Fanal regions.

Customers can reserve their spot and save up to 8% on the SEK 831 per person price, with the option to pay later and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The 8-hour excursion is limited to a small group of 8 participants, led by knowledgeable guides fluent in English, Portuguese, and Spanish.

From cable car rides to natural sea pools and stunning rock formations, this immersive experience promises to showcase the diverse beauty and natural wonders of Madeira’s western coast.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour embarks from convenient starting locations in Funchal Center, Lido, and Caniço, transporting guests to the rugged coastal landscapes of Achadas da Cruz, Porto Moniz, Seixal, and the enchanting Fanal Forest.

Adrenaline-seekers will thrill at the cable car descent (600 m downhill) into Achadas da Cruz, while nature enthusiasts will be captivated by the dramatic natural sea pools of Porto Moniz and the thundering waterfalls of Seixal.

The tour culminates with a guided exploration of the primeval Fanal Forest, where ancient laurel trees and unique wildlife abound.

Throughout the journey, guests will enjoy ample time to enjoy Madeira’s breathtaking vistas and rich cultural heritage.

Starting and Ending Locations

The tour commences from convenient starting points in Funchal Center, Lido, and Caniço, where guests are seamlessly transported to the rugged coastal landscapes that lie ahead. The first stop is the captivating Achadas da Cruz, accessible via a thrilling cable car ride that descends 600 meters down the cliffside. After exploring this remarkable location, the journey continues to the natural sea pools of Porto Moniz, followed by the black sand beach and cascading waterfalls of Seixal. The final destination is the enchanting Fanal Forest, where a guided tour unveils the region’s unique wildlife. At the end, guests are returned to their original pick-up points, having experienced the full breadth of Madeira’s western wonders.

Starting Locations	Key Stops	Ending Locations
Hotel Porto Mare	Achadas da Cruz	Supermercado Mendonça
Shuttle Bus Drop-off point	Porto Moniz	Hotel Porto Mare
Supermercado Mendonça	Seixal	Shuttle Bus Drop-off point
	Fanal Forest

Included Transportation and Features

Complimentary transportation from centrally-located meeting points in Funchal Center, Lido, and Caniço whisks guests away to the breathtaking landscapes of Madeira’s west coast.

The tour includes the cable car fee for the Achadas da Cruz descent, where visitors are treated to stunning ocean vistas.

An expert local driver and guide provides knowledgeable commentary throughout the journey, offering insights into the region’s history and natural wonders.

Refreshments, including a bottle of water, a local drink, and a coffee, ensure guests stay hydrated and energized during the day’s adventures.

With the convenience of included transportation and seamless logistics, travelers can fully enjoy the captivating sights and experiences that await in this picturesque corner of Madeira.

Suitability and What to Bring

While the tour includes convenient transportation and thoughtful amenities, it’s important to consider the suitability of this experience for certain guests.

Children under 12, people with vertigo, and wheelchair users, for instance, may find the cable car descent at Achadas da Cruz and other elements challenging.

To make the most of the journey, visitors should pack essential items like sunscreen, sun hats, towels, rain gear, and swimwear.

With the right preparation and an open mindset, travelers can safely and comfortably explore Madeira’s captivating western landscapes.

Smoking and vaping are prohibited in the vehicle, and guests should be aware that unpredictable weather may affect the itinerary, requiring flexibility.

Prohibitions and Weather Advisory

Smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited inside the vehicle throughout the tour, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience for all participants.

Plus, guests should be mindful that the unpredictable Madeiran weather may occasionally necessitate adjustments to the itinerary, requiring a flexible and adaptable mindset to fully savor the scenic wonders along the way.

While the tour aims to follow the outlined schedule, Mother Nature’s whims may sometimes require changes to the program.

Guests are advised to come prepared with appropriate rain gear and be ready to embrace any unexpected twists and turns, as the breathtaking landscapes and natural beauty of Madeira’s westside are sure to leave a lasting impression, regardless of the weather’s cooperation.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

The tour boasts an impressive 4.9 out of 5 overall rating based on a wealth of 80 reviews, with equally high praise for the transportation and value-for-money aspects of the experience.

Reviewers consistently commend the knowledgeable and engaging guides, who provide a small-group setting that allows for intimate exploration of Madeira’s stunning natural wonders.

From the breathtaking views at Achadas da Cruz to the serene beauty of the Fanal Forest, travelers are captivated by the diverse array of scenic highlights.

While a few minor critiques mention the tight space in the electric car and the length of the tour, the overwhelming consensus is that this excursion delivers an exceptional value that showcases the very best of Madeira’s westside.

Key Stops and Attractions

This wide-ranging itinerary takes visitors on a captivating journey through Madeira’s breathtaking westside, showcasing a tapestry of natural wonders and cultural gems.

Starting at accessible pick-up points in Funchal, the tour kicks off with a thrilling cable car ride down the cliffs of Achadas da Cruz, offering sweeping vistas of the dramatic coastline.

Highlights along the way include:

Exploring the natural sea pools of Porto Moniz, where guests can relax and rejuvenate.
Discovering the black sand beaches and cascading waterfalls of Seixal.
Taking in the enchanting Fanal Forest, home to unique laurel trees and diverse wildlife.

These carefully curated stops provide an unforgettable opportunity to experience the true essence of Madeira’s stunning western region.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Age Restrictions for This Tour?

The tour is not suitable for children under 12 as it involves some activities and environments that may be challenging or unsafe for younger participants. Adults and older teens will enjoy the scenic wonders and small-group experience this tour provides.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not permitted on this tour. The tour focuses on exploring the natural wonders of Madeira, and the safety and comfort of all participants is a top priority. Guests are advised to make alternative arrangements for their furry friends.

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?

The tour does not offer any discounted rates for seniors or students. However, it provides an excellent value with its small group size, knowledgeable guides, and included transportation and activities. Guests can reserve now and pay later with free cancellation.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

The tour operator typically allows guests to customize their itinerary to suit their preferences, though some activities may have limited availability or require additional fees. Travelers should inquire about personalization options when booking to ensure the tour aligns with their interests.

How Does the Company Handle COVID-19 Safety Protocols?

The tour company prioritizes passenger safety by implementing robust COVID-19 protocols. This includes mandatory mask-wearing, frequent sanitization of vehicles, and adherence to local health guidelines. Customers can feel confident in the company’s commitment to their wellbeing during the experience.

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Recap

This captivating tour showcases Madeira’s westside gems, from the thrilling 600 m cable car descent to the serene natural sea pools of Porto Moniz.

Visitors will be enchanted by the stunning waterfalls of Seixal and the primeval Fanal Forest, teeming with unique wildlife and lush landscapes.

With knowledgeable guides and a small group setting, this excursion promises unforgettable experiences amidst Madeira’s breathtaking natural beauty.