Toboggan Ride & Madeira Wine Tasting Tour

Exploring Madeira: A Blend of Thrills, Flavors, and Local Charm

If you’re looking to get a taste of Madeira’s vibrant culture and natural beauty in just half a day, the Toboggan Ride & Madeira Wine Tasting Tour offers a lively mix of traditional experiences. For around $102, you’ll spend about five hours exploring key highlights like the colorful Mercado dos Lavradores, the exhilarating wicker sled ride from Monte, and the charming fishing village of Câmara de Lobos. Guided by friendly local experts, this tour is perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded glimpse of the island’s authentic life without spending an entire day on the road.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines adventure and culinary delights. The toboggan ride is not only a unique thrill, but it also offers a chance to feel what it’s like to travel as locals have since 1850, pushed by guides who steer you safely down a scenic hillside. The wine tasting at Henrique e Henrique, with its historic barrels, adds a taste of Madeira’s famed fortified wines, giving you a true sense of the island’s proud winemaking tradition.

One possible consideration is that the tour’s duration might feel tight for those wanting a more relaxed pace, especially if you enjoy lingering at each stop. Also, it’s not suitable for travelers in wheelchairs, so if accessibility is a concern, this is something to keep in mind.

Ultimately, this tour suits those who enjoy a blend of scenic views, culture, and a little adrenaline. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive snapshot of Madeira’s highlights, or for anyone craving a mix of nature, history, and local flavor packed into a manageable half-day.

Key Points

• Authentic Experiences: Combines local traditions like the wicker toboggan ride and Madeira wine tasting.
• Cultural Highlights: Visits vibrant Mercado dos Lavradores and the fishing village of Câmara de Lobos.
• Scenic Journey: Beautiful views en route to Monte and the coastal villages.
• Expert Guidance: Small groups ensure a personalized experience.
• Value for Money: Includes the toboggan ride and wine tasting, offering a well-rounded experience.
• Limited Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Madeira Toboggan & Wine Tour

Starting Point: Convenient Pickups Across Key Locations

The tour starts with pickup options at five different locations—Caniço, Câmara de Lobos, Ponta do Sol, Funchal, and Estreito da Calheta—making it flexible for different accommodations. We appreciate this because it minimizes stress for travelers, especially when you’re unfamiliar with the area. The driver meets you at your hotel or accommodation’s main entrance, and guides typically wait no longer than five minutes after the scheduled time, which keeps the day running smoothly.

Visiting the Farmers’ Market: A Feast for the Senses

Your first stop is the Mercado dos Lavradores in Funchal, where you’ll spend about 45 minutes exploring a riot of colors and aromas. The market, housed in a cheerful yellow building faced with traditional azulejos, has been around since the 1930s and is a bustling hub of island life.

Here, vendors sell everything from vividly colored fish and exotic fruits to local crafts. The flowers at the entrance, often sold by women in traditional island costumes, are a charming touch—perfect for souvenirs or simply to enjoy their fresh fragrance. Inside, the upper floors burst with seasonal fruits and vegetables, while the fish hall showcases some less appetizing sights—like the razor-sharp teeth of scabbard fish—which might turn your stomach if you’re sensitive. But don’t let that deter you; the market’s lively scene, the scents of tropical produce, and the friendly vendors make it a worthwhile stop.

Câmara de Lobos: The Fishing Village Charm

Next, your journey takes you to Câmara de Lobos, a fishing village famous for its painted boats and laid-back vibe. Winston Churchill famously painted here in 1949, and it remains a picturesque spot for a quick look. The village’s whitewashed houses and colorful boats lining the stony beach give it an unmistakable charm. You’ll also have the chance to taste Poncha, a local sugarcane spirit flavored with lemon and honey, at one of the local bars.

The village’s name derives from monk seals (lobos-marinhos) that used to frequent the harbor, and you might still spot some seals in the waters—adding a touch of wildlife to your visit. The outdoor setting and seaside views are perfect for a relaxed stroll and some memorable photos.

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The Wine Tasting Experience: Cheers to Madeira

From Câmara de Lobos, the tour moves on to Henrique e Henrique, a dedicated wine lodge dating back to 1850. Here, you’ll explore the estate’s huge barrels and learn about the island’s renowned Madeira wines. The tasting session allows you to sample some of the finest fortified wines, which have been produced on the island for centuries. It’s a chance to appreciate the complexity and tradition behind Madeira’s famous export, and the knowledgeable guides help you understand what makes these wines so special.

Scenic Drive to Monte: Breathtaking Views

On the way to Monte, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive through some of Madeira’s most stunning landscapes. This gives you a glimpse of the lush hillsides and terraced vineyards that make the island famous. The highlight here is the 2 km toboggan ride from Monte down to Funchal, which is included in the tour price.

The Monte Toboggan Ride: A Unique Thrill

The toboggan ride is what we love about this tour. You’ll sit in a traditional wicker basket mounted on wooden runners, and your guides push and steer you down the winding hillside streets. It’s a scenic, exhilarating experience—described by Ernest Hemingway as “exhilarating.” The ride lasts about 10 minutes, covering an impressive 2 km, and offers spectacular views of Funchal and the surrounding landscape.

It’s a safe, controlled activity, with cushions on the seats and guides in charge—so you don’t need to worry about losing control. The guides use rubber-soled boots to steer and brake, giving you a feeling of speed and adventure without any risk. The experience is fun, slightly adrenaline-pumping, and a genuine nod to Madeira’s history of using the toboggan as a means of transportation.

End of Tour: Drop-offs at Multiple Locations

After the ride, the tour concludes with drop-offs at the same five locations where pickups took place, giving you flexibility for your ongoing plans. Whether you want to relax at your accommodation or explore more of Funchal, you’re well-positioned to continue your Madeira journey.

Analyzing the Value

For $102, this tour packs in several key experiences—market visits, wine tasting, scenic drives, and the iconic toboggan ride. Including the toboggan ride and wine tasting in the cost makes it a good deal, especially considering the small group size (limited to 8 participants), which ensures a more personal and engaging experience.

The hotel pickup and drop-off adds convenience, saving you the hassle of navigating public transport or taxis. Plus, the guided commentary in multiple languages keeps the experience educational and lively. The tour is designed to give a relaxed yet comprehensive insight into Madeira’s local life, scenic beauty, and traditions.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchairs, and the schedule may feel somewhat tight for travelers who prefer to take things slowly. The visit to the market, while colorful and lively, is relatively brief, so if you love markets or want to explore at your own pace, this might feel rushed.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for curious travelers eager to see a slice of everyday Madeira, from traditional markets and fishing villages to scenic landscapes and unique rides. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a half-day adventure that balances activity with culture—perfect for first-time visitors or those with limited time who want a well-rounded taste of the island’s charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from accommodations in Funchal, Câmara de Lobos, Caniço, Ponta do Sol, and Estreito da Calheta.

How long does the toboggan ride last? The ride lasts about 10 minutes, covering roughly 2 km downhill from Monte to Funchal.

Are meals or snacks included? No, food and drinks are not included, but you’ll have plenty of opportunities to try local flavors at the market, village, and winery.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues? No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility impairments.

What languages are guides available in? Guides speak English, Portuguese, Spanish, and Dutch, making it accessible for many travelers.

Is the tour family-friendly? Yes, but children should be comfortable with the toboggan ride and the walking involved at each stop.

Do I need to reserve in advance? Yes, reservations are recommended, and you can cancel up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund.

In all, this Madeira tour offers a lively combination of tradition, scenery, and a dash of adventure. It strikes a good balance between guided commentary and free time, making it a practical choice for those wanting a memorable, authentic experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. Whether you’re a wine lover, a thrill-seeker, or simply curious about Madeira’s everyday life, this tour delivers a compact, engaging taste of the island’s essence.

You can check availability for your dates here: