Nun’s Valley

Intro: A Look at the Nun’s Valley Tour

If you’re exploring Funchal and looking for a taste of Madeira’s dramatic landscapes, the Nun’s Valley tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into this rugged island. For roughly four hours, you’ll hop into an air-conditioned vehicle with a small group—usually capped at 16—and venture through mountain passes, pass by iconic viewpoints, and visit the tiny village of Curral das Freiras. This tour strikes a nice balance between sightseeing and local charm, making it a popular choice with travelers who want a manageable, affordable excursion without sacrificing authentic views.

What I really appreciate about this experience is how it combines spectacular vistas—like the panoramic Pico dos Barcelos—alongside the chance to step into a local village that’s often missed on typical visits. Plus, the fact that transportation is included means you don’t have to worry about navigating winding mountain roads on your own. The modest price of just over $23 per person makes it accessible for most travelers, especially considering the stunning viewpoints and easy logistics.

One thing to keep in mind: the tour is somewhat condensed, so if you’re after in-depth exploration or leisurely stops, you might find it a bit quick. Also, weather can influence the experience—bad weather means the tour could be canceled or rescheduled, so it’s worth factoring in in your planning. However, from what I gather, most travelers leave feeling they’ve enjoyed a good overview of Madeira’s incredible mountain scenery and local life, especially with the guide’s insights.

Key points / Takeaways

• Spectacular viewpoints: Highlights include Pico dos Barcelos at 355m and Eira do Serrado at 1094m, offering sweeping views over Funchal and the Curral das Freiras valley.
• Authentic village visit: Curral das Freiras provides a glimpse into Madeira’s mountain life, with a charming church and the opportunity for a tasting, as noted by visitors.
• Comfortable transport: An air-conditioned vehicle makes the mountain crossings more pleasant, especially in warm weather.
• Small group intimacy: With a maximum of 16 travelers, conversations tend to feel personal, and you get more attention from your guide.
• Affordable value: At just $23.15, the tour offers a reasonable price for the scenery and local insights, with free stops at key viewpoints.
• Flexible cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind if your plans change.

Detailed Overview of the Nun’s Valley Tour

Starting Point and First Stop: Curral das Freiras

The tour kicks off in Funchal, where you’ll meet your guide and hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The first major highlight is the journey across Madeira’s mountains to visit the village of Curral das Freiras, a tiny settlement surrounded by towering peaks. The name translates roughly as “Nun’s Valley,” and the name hints at the story—this was historically a retreat for nuns escaping pirates, giving the place a quiet, secluded feel.

As you approach, you pass the church of Santo António, which is worth noticing for its simple charm and local significance. Then, you’ll have the chance to stop at the Pico dos Barcelos viewpoint at 355 meters. Here, you’ll be dazzled by the panoramic views over Funchal, with the city laid out below and the Atlantic beyond. It’s a perfect spot for photos and to get a sense of how Madeira’s geography shapes its towns.

Crossing the Mountains: Eira do Serrado

Next, the bus crosses higher into the mountains toward Eira do Serrado, at an altitude of 1094 meters. This is perhaps the most dramatic viewpoint on the tour, with expansive vistas over the Curral das Freiras valley. Many travelers find this spot the most memorable, as it offers a sweeping, elevated perspective of the tiny village below—a true “Wow” moment.

Exploring Curral das Freiras

The highlight is a visit to the parish of Curral das Freiras itself. Despite its small size, it’s packed with character. You’ll find a charming church and the chance to sample some local produce—many reviews mention the opportunity to enjoy a tasting here. One visitor noted, “the church is worth the detour and you can enjoy a tasting,” which hints at the authentic, unpolished charm of this mountain village. It’s a slice of local life, away from tourist crowds, and offers a peaceful contrast to the bustling city.

Return to Funchal

The tour wraps up with the scenic drive back down the mountains, returning to Funchal. Most participants leave feeling they’ve had a good overview of Madeira’s dramatic landscape and quiet villages, along with some memorable viewpoints that are hard to access independently without a car.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour’s value lies partly in its transportation. The air-conditioned vehicle keeps things comfortable, especially given the mountain terrain, and the small group size encourages a more personalized experience. The tour runs on a set schedule, with a pickup point in Funchal, and is available Thursday afternoons from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Booking is straightforward, with most travelers reserving about 10 days in advance.

Not included is WiFi onboard, so if you want to share your photos or check maps, plan accordingly. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with no strenuous activities involved—just some walking around the viewpoints.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

I’d recommend this for travelers who want a quick yet meaningful taste of Madeira’s mountains and local culture. It’s ideal if you prefer small, guided groups rather than large busloads, and if you value striking viewpoints without the hassle of self-driving. It’s also a good choice for those on a budget, given the reasonable price and free viewpoint stops.

What to Keep in Mind

Weather can influence the experience—if it’s cloudy or rainy, the viewpoints may be less spectacular or the tour might be canceled. The company offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before, which adds flexibility. Also, the tour is about four hours long, so it fits well into a day without feeling rushed, but don’t expect extensive exploring—it’s a scenic overview rather than an in-depth village or hiking expedition.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This?

This Nun’s Valley tour offers a solid snapshot of Madeira’s natural beauty and small-scale rural charm. It’s best suited for travelers who crave a scenic escape, appreciate panoramic views, and want convenient transportation. If you’re after a relaxed, visually rewarding experience that reveals the island’s rugged terrain and quiet villages, this tour provides good value and authentic sights.

However, if you’re looking for a more immersive or leisurely exploration—perhaps with longer stops or hikes—you might want to consider additional or alternative excursions. For most, this tour strikes a wise balance between affordability, comfort, and memorable views.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately four hours, including stops for viewpoints and the village visit.

Is transportation included?
Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle is provided, making mountain crossings and transfers comfortable.

What is the cost?
The tour costs about $23.15 per person, offering a budget-friendly way to see key sights.

Are there any meals or snacks?
No meals are included, but the tour allows time to enjoy local produce and a tasting in Curral das Freiras.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your plans change.

What’s the group size?
The maximum group size is 16 travelers, creating a more intimate experience.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, as it involves scenic viewpoints and short walks, but consider individual mobility needs.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothes, a hat, sunscreen, and camera are recommended—weather can change quickly in the mountains.