West Tour of the Island

Exploring Madeira’s West Coast: A Balanced Look at the Full Day Tour

This West Tour of the Island offers a well-rounded glimpse of Madeira’s captivating western landscapes in about 8 hours. While I haven’t taken this specific trip myself, I’ve gathered plenty of insights from travelers who’ve experienced it and from the detailed itinerary. Priced at just under $50, it’s an accessible way to see the highlights without feeling rushed, especially with a small group of no more than 8 travelers—meaning you get more personalized attention from your guide.

Two things stand out as major pluses. First, the stunning viewpoints—from the skywalk at Cabo Girao to the cliffs near Porto Moniz, you’ll find plenty of photo-worthy moments. Second, the knowledgeable guides, like Fernando, seem to make a difference by adding context and personality to the experience. However, a bit of a drawback is the long stops — some travelers feel the itinerary could be condensed, or at least balanced better to avoid feeling like it drags on. Still, if you love seeing a mix of scenery, charming villages, and a taste of local life, this tour offers a solid, value-packed day.

Key points / Takeaways

• Stunning panoramic views from Cabo Girao’s skywalk and lookouts make this tour worthwhile for photography lovers.
• Small group size means more personal interaction and better chances to ask your guide questions.
• Diverse stops, including villages, natural pools, and scenic plateaus, offer a varied experience that captures the island’s essence.
• Flexible and practical logistics like hotel pickup and mobile tickets streamline your day.
• Long stops might be a downside for some travelers eager to see more in less time, as noted in reviews.
• Authentic experience — visits to traditional villages like Camara de Lobos and Sao Vicente add a local flavor that larger tours might overlook.

Making Sense of Madeira’s Western Wonders

If you’re looking to make the most of a single day in Madeira, this tour covers the massive highlights of the island’s west side. It’s designed for travelers who want a guided overview, with enough free time at each stop to soak in the scenery and snap photos. The 8-hour schedule packs in a lot, which means you’ll want to prepare for a full day of sightseeing but also appreciate the convenience of door-to-door hotel pickup and drop-off.

Starting at Camara de Lobos

Your day kicks off at Camara de Lobos, a picturesque fishing village believed to be the landing spot of Portuguese explorer João Gonçalvez Zarco. It’s a charming spot, famously praised for its beauty and for Churchill’s visit—he even painted here. The viewpoint “PICO DA TORRE” offers a panoramic glance at this bay, with lightly less than 30 minutes allocated, suggesting you get a quick but memorable look. According to reviews, Fernando, the guide, helps bring this spot to life, sharing local legends and history.

Soaring Over Madeira at Cabo Girao

Next up is Cabo Girao, Europe’s highest sea-cliff skywalk at 589 meters above sea level. It’s a must-see for anyone craving jaw-dropping vistas, and the transparent glass platform makes you feel as if you’re floating over the Atlantic. Keep in mind, admission is not included, so budget accordingly. Travelers often comment on the breathtaking views over Câmara de Lobos and Funchal—an Instagram favorite for sure. Many say it’s worth the stop despite the extra cost.

Discovering Ribeira Brava

The trip then swings south to Ribeira Brava, a lovely coastal town with a river that earned its name (“angry river”). The town, surrounded by mountains and sea, offers a quick chance to absorb local life. The scenic setting is evident, and many visitors find it a peaceful spot to stretch their legs and enjoy the views.

The Panoramic Ride through Serra d’Água

Climbing north from Ribeira Brava, the road through Serra d’Água takes you past Madeira’s first water power station. You’ll reach a top of the valley with views of both the north and south coast—ideal for photos and soaking in the island’s diverse terrain. This scenic drive is a highlight for those who enjoy road trip vistas.

Pico Ruivo do Paul da Serra

High up on the largest plateau of Madeira, at 1500 meters, is Pico Ruivo do Paul da Serra. It’s a vast expanse of flora and scenery, almost 24 square kilometers, offering a sense of the island’s scale. Many appreciate this stop for its unspoiled nature and sweeping views, even if it’s just a quick visit.

Porto Moniz and Natural Pools

The climactic highlight is Porto Moniz, famous for its natural volcanic pools. With about 2 hours here, you’ll have ample time to stroll around, take photos, and enjoy the raw beauty of these unique swimming spots. The pools are free to access and are considered one of Madeira’s best attractions—a perfect spot for a refreshing dip or just a relaxing break.

Visiting Miradouro do Veu da Noiva

Next, you’ll stop at the “Bride’s Veil” waterfall and the viewpoint at Veu da Noiva, offering stunning views of cliffs and sea-level vistas. Many reviewers mention these as breathtaking photo opportunities, and the pebbled beach adds to the scenic charm.

End at Sao Vicente

The last stop is Sao Vicente, a village perched between cliffs with a charming, authentic atmosphere. It’s a good place to reflect on the day, with a historic chapel and dramatic coastal views. The 30-minute visit here offers a taste of traditional Madeira life.

What Travelers Say and What It Means for You

According to reviews, guides like Fernando make a difference, adding personality and insights that enrich the experience. Many appreciate having more time in each location—some felt the stops were a bit lengthy, but overall, the variety of scenery kept the trip engaging. The tour’s value is boosted by the inclusion of multiple free attractions and beautiful viewpoints, making the cost quite reasonable.

A few mentioned that the long stops could be tiring or feel a bit excessive, but if you’re someone who loves to linger and take photos, this might be ideal. Others pointed out that visiting the fire-affected areas was handled delicately, showing respect for recent events.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers who want a rundown of Madeira’s highlights without the fuss of planning individual excursions. It’s great for those who enjoy scenic drives, breathtaking vistas, and charming villages, especially if you prefer a small group setting. If you’re pressed for time but want to see the island’s west side, this is a solid choice. However, if you’re looking for a very fast-paced visit or to explore specific spots in depth, you might find it too leisurely or packed.

Practical Tips

• Be prepared for long driving periods; bring snacks or water if needed.
• Wear comfortable shoes—some stops involve walking on uneven terrain or pebbly beaches.
• Budget extra if you want to visit Cabo Girao’s skywalk, as the ticket isn’t included.
• Take advantage of the small group size to ask questions and get personalized insights from your guide.

Final Thoughts

The West Tour of the Island offers a rich sampling of Madeira’s west coast, from dramatic cliffs to charming villages, with enough free time to really enjoy each spot. It’s a fantastic way to see the island’s natural beauty without feeling overwhelmed. The combination of stunning views, authentic stops, and a knowledgeable guide makes it a worthwhile option for most travelers.

While it’s not the fastest way to see everything, what you do see is high-quality, well-organized, and reasonably priced. If you’re someone who appreciates a balanced pace, scenic vistas, and local character, this tour could be a highlight of your Madeira visit.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers round-trip transfers from select area hotels in Madeira, making it convenient to start your day.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, giving you a full day of sightseeing.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 8, which allows for more personal attention and interaction with your guide.

Are tickets to attractions like Cabo Girao skywalk included?
No, the admission ticket to Cabo Girao is not included, so you will need to purchase it separately if you want to walk on the skywalk.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and perhaps a camera for the viewpoints and photo stops.

Is food included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly. You might want to bring snacks or plan to buy something at Porto Moniz.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there’s free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, offering peace of mind.