Nun's Valley

If you’re visiting Madeira and craving a taste of its rugged beauty and local charm, the Nun’s Valley tour offered by BEARDED MADEIRA Tours & Walks is a solid choice. For $28 per person, you get about 3.5 hours of exploring some of Madeira’s most iconic sights, including viewpoints with panoramic city views, charming mountain scenery, and a visit to the picturesque Curral das Freiras. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour is designed to give you a snapshot of Madeira’s natural splendor and culinary delights.

What we especially love about this experience is how accessible and well-organized it is — you get to see stunning viewpoints like Pico dos Barcelos and Eira do Serrado, and then venture into the dramatic Nun’s Valley itself. Plus, the chance to sample local chestnut cakes and traditional liqueurs adds a flavorful layer that truly makes this tour stand out. The only thing to keep in mind is the limited duration—so if you’re looking for a deep dive, this is more of a highlight reel.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy scenic drives, panoramic views, and authentic regional foods. It’s perfect for those with limited time on the island who want a taste of Madeira’s mountain magic without the hassle of complicated logistics. If you’re after a balanced mix of sightseeing and local flavor, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to the heart of Madeira.

Key Points

Stunning viewpoints like Pico dos Barcelos and Eira do Serrado provide sweeping views of Funchal and the surrounding mountains.
The scenic drive through Madeira’s lush mountains and valleys adds a memorable visual component.
Authentic tastes of Madeira’s cuisine, including chestnut cakes and regional liqueurs, offer a delicious cultural insight.
The highlight destination, Curral das Freiras, is a spectacular mountain village surrounded by lava rocks and dramatic cliffs.
A small, friendly group with a knowledgeable guide makes for an engaging and personalized experience.
Rain or shine, the tour proceeds, so dress appropriately for weather and bring your camera.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Nun’s Valley Tour

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Starting the Journey: Funchal Pickup and First Impressions

The tour begins with a convenient pickup in Funchal, simplifying logistics for visitors staying in town. Once aboard, you’re off to explore Madeira’s varied landscapes. Your guide—whose name might be shared during the trip—serves as your storyteller, offering insights into the island’s geography and local life.

Pico dos Barcelos Lookout: A Perfect First Photo Stop

Your first stop is the Pico dos Barcelos lookout, a classic viewpoint offering excellent panoramic views over Funchal. This spot is ideal for your initial photos, with wide vistas and a chance to get your bearings. You’ll have about 15 minutes here, enough time to snap some shots and soak in the scenery. Travelers often find this a good warm-up for the rest of the tour, especially if the weather is clear.

Eira do Serrado Viewpoint: The Gateway to Nun’s Valley

Next, the journey takes you to Eira do Serrado, perched at 1,094 meters above sea level. This is where the landscape dramatically shifts from cityscape to mountains. The surrounding chestnut and eucalyptus trees create a peaceful backdrop, and the old paths still used by locals add a touch of timeless charm. From here, you’ll enjoy about 20 minutes of sightseeing and photo opportunities.

Most travelers highlight this stop as a highlight because of the breathtaking views of Nun’s Valley — a secluded mountain bowl surrounded by lava rocks. It’s the perfect spot to appreciate Madeira’s volcanic origins and rugged terrain.

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Curral das Freiras: The Mountain Village

The centerpiece of the tour is the visit to Curral das Freiras, or Nun’s Valley, where you’ll spend around 80 minutes. This mountain village, once a retreat for nuns fleeing pirates, is now a peaceful spot surrounded by towering cliffs. The scenery is stunning, with lava rocks and dense forests creating a dramatic setting. Here, you can explore on your own, take photos, and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

According to reviews, this stop is especially memorable. One traveler noted, “We loved the way the scenery was so unique — surrounded by lava rocks and isolated from the rest of the island.” The village itself offers a glimpse into local life and traditional Madeira architecture.

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Tasting Regional Delights

No Madeira tour would be complete without sampling the local flavors. At the end of the visit, you’re treated to traditional chestnut cakes and pastries that are exclusive to the region. These sweet treats, often paired with regional liqueurs, provide a delicious taste of Madeira’s culinary heritage.

One reviewer mentioned that the chestnut cake was a highlight, emphasizing how unique and region-specific this food is. The tasting adds a comfortable way to wind down and reflect on the stunning scenery.

Ending the Tour: Return to Funchal

After the scenic and flavorful highlights, you’ll be driven back to Funchal. The entire experience is designed to be relaxed yet enriching, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions or simply enjoy the views.

Transportation, Group Size, and Practical Aspects

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Funchal, making it hassle-free for travelers staying in town. The transportation is likely a comfortable minibus or van, suitable for small groups that foster a friendly atmosphere. The total duration of 3.5 hours means you get plenty of highlights without feeling rushed—ideal for a half-day adventure.

The tour is led by certified guides speaking multiple languages, including English, French, Spanish, and Portuguese, making it accessible for many visitors.

Price and Value

At $28 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the scenic viewpoints, local tasting, and hassle-free logistics. You’re paying mainly for the experience and expert guiding, rather than expensive entrance fees or additional costs. Since food and drinks are not included in the price, you might want to budget a little extra for refreshments, but the focus on regional foods makes the tasting a highlight rather than an extra expense.

Considerations

One potential limitation is the duration—if you’re looking for a deep or extensive exploration, this tour is more of a snapshot. Also, since it proceeds rain or shine, be prepared for the weather, especially if visiting in the cooler or wetter months. It’s not suited for wheelchair users, so plan accordingly if you have mobility concerns.

What Reviews Say About the Experience

With a solid 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18 reviews, this tour clearly resonates with travelers. Many mention the “good” organization and the stunning views as key highlights. One traveler said, “The views from Eira do Serrado and the mountain village were truly breathtaking,” while another appreciated the local food tasting as a memorable part of the trip.

The guides receive praise for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. The small group size creates an intimate atmosphere, allowing for questions and personalized attention.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Nun’s Valley tour offers a cost-effective, scenic, and culturally enriching experience. It’s perfect for travelers who want a half-day adventure with amazing views and local flavors. If you’re short on time but still want to see Madeira’s mountain highlights and taste regional treats, this tour hits the mark.

It’s especially suited for those who appreciate panoramic vistas, enjoy light walking, and want a relaxed, guided experience without the hassle of navigating on their own. While not suitable for those with mobility issues or seeking a full-day deep dive, it’s a great introduction for most visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes free pickup and drop-off in the Funchal area, making it easy to start and end your day comfortably.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is about 3.5 hours, so it’s perfect for a half-day outing.

What are the main stops?
You’ll visit Pico dos Barcelos for city views, Eira do Serrado for mountain vistas, and the highlight, Curral das Freiras, a scenic mountain village.

Are food and drinks included?
No, but you’ll have the opportunity to taste regional chestnut cakes and local liqueurs at the end of the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s generally suitable for most adults, but not for wheelchair users. The walking involved is moderate, so consider mobility when booking.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, weather-appropriate clothing, and a sense of curiosity. The weather can vary, and a jacket might be useful.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, as long as there’s availability. You can also reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility.

What happens in case of rain?
The tour proceeds rain or shine, so dress accordingly. The views can be even more dramatic in misty weather.

In sum, the Nun’s Valley tour offers an inviting blend of spectacular scenery, authentic regional foods, and the kind of relaxed guiding that makes Madeira feel like a personal discovery. Whether you’re a first-timer or a repeat visitor, it’s an excellent way to enjoy some of the island’s most scenic and tasty highlights in just a few hours.

You can check availability for your dates here: