From Funchal: Nuns Valley, Monte and Sleigh Ride Tour

Discover the Best of Madeira on the Nuns Valley, Monte, and Toboggan Tour

If you’re visiting Funchal and want a well-rounded taste of Madeira’s natural beauty, history, and local traditions, this small-group tour offers a fantastic option. For around $41 per person, you’ll spend about four hours exploring some of the island’s most iconic spots — from the lush Nuns Valley to the historic Monte, topped off with a thrilling toboggan ride. Led by guides who generally receive rave reviews, this tour combines scenic vistas, cultural stops, and a dash of adventure that keeps travelers smiling.

What we love about this experience are the breathtaking panoramic views from Pico dos Barcelos and Eira do Serrado, and the chance to try Madeira’s traditional chestnut cake and local liquors. These authentic tastes give a real flavor of the island’s culinary delights. Also, the toboggan ride is a highlight — a fun, old-fashioned way to descend from Monte that’s genuinely memorable.

One thing to keep in mind is that the queue for the toboggan can sometimes build up if you arrive late or in peak times — so early booking and arriving on time really pay off. This tour is perfect for travelers who like a mix of scenic beauty, cultural stops, and a bit of fun adventure, especially if you appreciate local food, history, and spectacular views without the hassle of planning each stop independently.

It’s especially suited for those with limited time in Madeira but who want a comprehensive snapshot of the island’s highlights. If you enjoy guided experiences with friendly, knowledgeable guides and appreciate authentic local flavors, this tour will serve you well.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Stunning Vistas: Offers panoramic views from Pico dos Barcelos and Eira do Serrado, perfect for photography and appreciation of Madeira’s landscape.
Authentic Cultural Stops: Visit the Monte church, see where Emperor Charles I is buried, and learn about the island’s history and its unique traditions.
Exciting Adventure: The 2-kilometer toboggan ride down Livramento Road provides a fun, adrenaline-pumping experience, with a scenic descent.
Culinary Highlights: Taste regional specialties like chestnut cake, pastries, and local liquors—an authentic regional flavor experience.
Expert Guides: Reviews consistently praise guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling, making the tour engaging and informative.
Value for Money: Including transportation, the toboggan ride, and entrance fees, this tour offers an affordable way to see Madeira’s highlights efficiently.

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A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off early from a variety of 48 pickup locations across Funchal, including well-known hotels and spots like the Madeira Gardens and the CR7 Museum. If you’re staying in town or nearby, you’ll likely find a convenient pickup point — and if you’re arriving by cruise, the meeting point at the Cristiano Ronaldo Museum is just a short walk from the ship.

The group size is small, enhancing the chance for personalized attention and easier photo opportunities. The tour lasts about four hours, making it an ideal morning or early afternoon activity without feeling rushed.

The Scenic Drive and Viewpoints

The first stop is at Pico dos Barcelos, a favorite for its sweeping views of Funchal and the surrounding coast. Here, we love the wide vistas that stretch across the city, the bay, and the lush mountains beyond. It’s a perfect spot for photos and to get your bearings.

Next, we ascend to Eira do Serrado, perched at 1,094 meters above sea level. This overlook offers a jaw-dropping panorama of Nuns Valley (Curral das Freiras), a remote, lava-rock-enclosed village. The reviews highlight this as a real “breath of fresh air,” with many mentioning it as a favorite stop.

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The Unique Nuns Valley

This valley was once home to nuns fleeing pirate attacks during the 16th century, and today, it remains isolated and stunning. Surrounded by lava rock formations and lush greenery, it’s a reminder of Madeira’s volcanic origins.

You’ll visit the Chestnut Museum and try some regional chestnut cakes and pastries that are only found here. Reviewers mention that the tasting experience is a highlight, with one saying, “Tony was a brilliant guide… took us to places we wouldn’t have explored on our own,” emphasizing the value of local insights.

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Monte and the Emperor’s Tomb

Moving downhill, the tour takes you to Monte, a historic hilltop village once popular with travelers. Here, you’ll visit the church where Emperor Charles I of Austria is buried, which adds a regal touch to your visit. The church’s architecture and the story behind the emperor’s exile make for interesting cultural insights.

The guide often shares anecdotes about Madeira’s history, adding depth to the experience. Many reviews note the guides’ bilingual explanations and good humor, which make the journey both educational and enjoyable.

The Toboggan Ride

Then comes the fun part — the famous 2-kilometer toboggan ride down Livramento Road. Originally a traditional way for locals to descend from Monte, this ride is now a popular tourist attraction, with a chance to experience a medieval mode of transport in a fun, safe way.

The guides ensure safety, and many reviews mention that the drivers of the sleds are skilled and jovial, making the ride not only safe but hilarious. One reviewer called it the “best part of the tour”, praising the early arrival that let them skip the long queues.

Additional Cultural Stops and Tasting

Post-ride, you’ll have some free time and then continue the tour with additional scenic stops and a visit to Curral das Freiras, where you can take photos and enjoy local aperitifs. The tour includes a liquor tasting in the Nuns Valley village, giving you a chance to sample regional spirits.

Final Return and Drop-offs

After a full morning of sightseeing, the tour returns to Funchal, with drop-offs at your hotel or designated locations. The reviews consistently mention the friendly guides, clean transportation, and the well-paced itinerary.

Practical Details and Tips

Price: At about $41, this tour provides excellent value, including transportation, guides, tasting, and the toboggan ride.
Duration: Four hours is a perfect window to explore without fatigue, though early arrivals for the toboggan are encouraged to avoid queues.
Group Size: Small groups mean fewer crowds, more personalized attention, and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Pickups: Multiple pickup points in Funchal make it convenient, and the option for cruise guests at the CR7 Museum is handy.
Additional Costs: A fee of $4.50 per person applies if you’re coming from the cruise terminal, but this is a small extra for a comprehensive tour.
Children: Children under 3 can sit on a parent’s lap; no discounts are offered for kids, but reviews suggest families find it fun and engaging for all ages.
Language: Guides speak multiple languages, including English, Portuguese, German, French, Spanish, and Dutch, making it accessible for international travelers.

Authentic Traveler Perspectives

From reviews, it’s clear that the guides are a major highlight — their knowledge, humor, and friendliness make the trip memorable. One reviewer states, “Tony was a brilliant guide,” emphasizing the personal touch that elevates the experience. Many mention arriving early for the toboggan as a smart move, avoiding long lines and getting the best ride.

The scenic stops are consistently praised as breathtaking, with comments like, “the views from Monte and Eira do Serrado are unforgettable,” and “the whole tour was exactly what we wanted — beautiful scenery, interesting history, and fun adventures.” The food tasting is another popular element, with travelers enjoying regional pastries and liquors, feeling they get an authentic taste of Madeira’s culinary traditions.

The value for money is frequently highlighted, especially considering the inclusion of the toboggan ride and entrance fees. Several reviews note that the tour exceeds expectations, blending sightseeing, culture, and fun at a reasonable price.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a well-rounded half-day experience that combines stunning vistas, cultural insights, and a dash of adventure, this tour is ideal. It suits families, couples, and solo travelers alike, especially those eager to see Madeira’s natural beauty without the hassle of independent planning. If you appreciate local food, historical sites, and fun rides, this tour offers a memorable slice of Madeira life.

However, if you prefer to explore at your own pace or have mobility issues, the short stops and guided nature of this trip might not be ideal. Also, arriving early helps to avoid queues, particularly for the toboggan ride.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under 3 can ride on a parent’s lap. The toboggan ride is a fun activity for families; reviews show kids and teenagers enjoy it, though there are no specific discounts for children.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking and some slight elevation are best. Consider bringing a light jacket, especially if visiting higher viewpoints like Eira do Serrado, which can be breezy.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The description doesn’t specify accessibility details, but given the narrow roads, tunnels, and the toboggan ride, it might not be suitable for wheelchairs or those with limited mobility.

How early should I arrive for the toboggan?
Arriving early is highly recommended to beat the queues, as many reviews mention the benefit of arriving before peak times for the ride.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, a $4.50 fee applies if you’re meeting at the cruise terminal. Food, drinks, and souvenirs are not included but can be purchased at stops.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak Spanish, Dutch, English, French, German, and Portuguese, accommodating a diverse set of travelers.

How long is the toboggan ride?
The ride is 2 kilometers long, offering a scenic, adrenaline-filled descent that many reviews describe as unforgettable.

Are there any other stops?
Yes, besides the main scenic viewpoints, you’ll visit Monte, Nuns Valley, and Curral das Freiras, with free time and photo opportunities at each.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility.

Is this tour available on all days?
Availability depends on the date and season, so it’s best to check the current schedule and book in advance to secure your spot.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and adventure — all at a price that feels fair considering what’s included. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge are often praised, making the experience both educational and entertaining. The scenic stops are truly breathtaking, and the toboggan ride is a highlight that makes the day memorable.

It’s a fantastic choice for those who want an authentic, engaging look at Madeira’s highlights without the complexity of planning every detail. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Madeira, this tour provides a great way to see the island’s best sights while enjoying some genuine local flavor.

If you love a good story, stunning scenery, and a touch of fun, this Nuns Valley, Monte, and Toboggan Tour is worth considering on your Madeira itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: