Around The Island – Two Days Tour From 9am To 5pm (Each Day)

Experience Madeira in Two Days with Feeling Madeira

If you’re after a rundown of Madeira’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail, the Around The Island tour from Feeling Madeira offers a compelling option. Priced at just over $71 per person, this two-day journey from Funchal takes you across the diverse landscapes of Madeira, from soaring mountain peaks to charming fishing villages, all in a small-group setting. Led by friendly guides like Paulo, Renato, or Gloria, you’ll get a blend of natural beauty, local culture, and interesting history — all with hassle-free pickups from your accommodation.

What we especially like about this tour is how efficiently it packs in many of the island’s must-see sights without feeling rushed. The small-group format means more personalized attention, and the well-paced itinerary balances sightseeing with enough leisure time to really soak in the views and atmosphere. However, keep in mind that with such a packed schedule, some stops like Santana might feel a little rushed for those wanting a deep dive into local culture. This tour suits travelers who love variety, stunning viewpoints, and a guided overview that handles all the logistics.

Key Points
– Extensive coverage of Madeira’s main attractions over just two days
– Small-group size ensures more personalized guides and better interaction
– Hassle-free transfers from your hotel make logistics a breeze
– Diverse stops including natural pools, mountain peaks, waterfalls, and villages
– Excellent value considering the number of sights and expert commentary
– Good for active travelers who enjoy frequent stops and scenic views

An In-Depth Look at the Two-Day Madeira Tour

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This tour is designed for travelers eager to get a broad yet manageable overview of Madeira’s most famous sights. With two full days running from approximately 9 am to 5 pm, it’s an ambitious but rewarding way to see the island’s highlights without the stress of self-driving or missing out.

The price point—$71.10 per person—may sound modest, but considering the transportation, guided commentary, and the variety of locations visited, it offers solid value. Plus, the tours are conducted in small groups, usually capped at 16 travelers, which often results in a more relaxed experience and better interaction with guides.

How the Itinerary Unfolds

Day 1: The West and Central Highlights

The first day is a carefully curated route across Madeira’s western and central regions. We start high at Cabo Girao, Europe’s second highest sea cliff at 580 meters. The glass balcony here offers one of the most breathtaking views on the island, perfect for that first awe-inspiring photo. Several reviews mention how stunning this spot is, with Michelle noting it’s a “magnificent viewpoint.”

Next, we visit Ribeira Brava, a small village with a 15th-century church, giving a glimpse into Madeira’s history. We love how these stops blend cultural sights with natural scenery. Then it’s onward to Madalena do Mar, where we stroll through lush banana plantations—an authentic taste of local agriculture.

From there, we ascend to Fonte do Bispo at Paúl de Serra, where panoramic views at 1300-1500 meters altitude lead into the Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The scenery here is a striking contrast to the coast, and you might find the cool mountain air a refreshing change.

The afternoon is reserved for Porto Moniz, famous for its natural volcanic pools. The stop here is a highlight — a perfect place to relax and even take a swim if weather permits. Many reviewers, like Joanna, appreciated the time spent here, calling it “a great place to enjoy a swim and lunch.” The volcanic pools are a natural marvel, and the views on descent through the lush greenery are spectacular.

Finally, the day wraps up with a visit to Seixal’s Véu da Noiva waterfall, a delicate cascade carved into the mountain face, and the picturesque village of São Vicente, home to a 17th-century church. The last stop is the famous fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, which Churchill famously painted. The views here are charming and atmospheric, perfect for a quick stroll.

Day 2: The East and Mountain Peaks

The second day starts with an impressive visit to the Cristo Rei statue in Garajau, offering striking views over the coast. Many travelers mention how unique and surprising this spot is, perched dramatically on the cliffs.

Next, we explore Machico, the island’s second-largest town, with roots as the first settlement and former capital. The history here adds depth to the scenic charm. The journey then takes us to Ponta de São Lourenço, a dramatic coastal reserve with rugged rock formations and sweeping Atlantic vistas. It’s a landscape quite different from the rest of Madeira, earning praise from visitors for its raw beauty.

Our next stop is Porto da Cruz, where an old rum distillery offers insights into Madeira’s sugar cane heritage. The steam-powered machinery and tradition-filled setting make this a real highlight, especially for those interested in local industry.

The Fortress of Faial, a tiny village known for its historic water mills and once-important sugar production, rounds out the morning. Here, you can imagine what life was like for early colonists, and the surrounding scenery is serene.

The afternoon is dedicated to Santana, famed for its iconic triangular thatched houses. Many reviews praise this village for its charm and authenticity, even though some feel the visit is brief. It’s a good opportunity to snap photos of traditional architecture and breathe in the local atmosphere.

The last stops are Ribeiro Frio, a peaceful mountain park with trout pools and walking trails, and Pico do Arieiro, the island’s third-highest peak at 1818 meters. The views from here are often described as “fabulous,” with clouds drifting past and the horizon stretching over the Atlantic. On clear days, you can see the island’s southern coast or even Porto Santo.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides—like Gloria, Renato, Paulo, and Lionel—who bring enthusiasm, insight, and humor to each stop. Michelle describes her guides as “amazing,” while Bruce appreciates the “great value” despite some crowding on the bus.

Many highlight the stunning scenery, especially the cliffs, waterfalls, and mountain peaks, which truly showcase Madeira’s natural beauty. Joanna notes how Renato kept everyone engaged with anecdotes and humor, making the long days enjoyable.

Some travelers mention the packed schedule—with little time at certain stops like Santana—but almost everyone agrees the tour hits a good balance of major sights and manageable durations. Several reviews appreciate the flexibility and professionalism of the operators, allowing cancellations and updates if weather conditions change.

Transportation & Group Size

The tour uses comfortable minivans or small buses, making it easy to navigate Madeira’s winding roads. The small-group format ensures you’re not just another face in a crowd, and guides can provide more tailored commentary. Most travelers find the timing to be well-structured, with enough breaks for photos and a relaxed pace.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for those wanting a broad but manageable snapshot of Madeira’s diverse landscapes and culture. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer guided trips to handle logistics and enjoy engaging commentary. If you’re keen on natural beauty, mountain views, and authentic villages, you’ll find plenty to love here.

However, if you’re seeking a deep dive into specific towns or hiking adventures, this might feel a bit rushed. The tour is well-suited to those who want a rundown without the hassle of planning or driving themselves.

Final Thoughts

Feeling Madeira’s Around The Island tour offers a strong value, combining stunning scenery, knowledgeable guides, and a well-rounded itinerary. The small-group atmosphere means you’ll get more interaction and attention, making the experience more personal.

The stops are thoughtfully chosen to showcase Madeira’s natural wonders, cultural heritage, and famous viewpoints. While the schedule is packed, most travelers find the variety keeps things interesting. The notable praise for guides like Renato and Gloria for their enthusiasm and insights adds to the tour’s appeal.

This trip suits active, curious travelers eager to explore a broad range of sights in a short time, without sacrificing comfort or local flavor. It’s a smart choice for first-timers wanting a solid overview or anyone short on time but eager to see the best of Madeira.

FAQs

How long are the stops?
Most stops range from about 20 to 30 minutes, giving enough time for photos, quick explorations, or a brief rest.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your accommodation and transportation between all the stops in a comfortable small vehicle.

Can I swim at Porto Moniz?
Yes, Porto Moniz is famous for its natural volcanic pools, and weather permitting, you can take a swim during your visit.

What should I bring?
Bring a sweater or light jacket, especially for mountain stops, along with camera, water, and sunscreen.

Are the guides fluent in English?
Yes, guides like Gloria, Renato, and Paulo provide commentary in English, with some offering bilingual explanations.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand, and if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

To sum it up, the Around The Island tour from Feeling Madeira provides an excellent way to see Madeira’s highlights without the stress of self-driving or coordinating multiple trips. With knowledgeable guides and a well-paced itinerary, it’s a strong choice for those wanting a broad taste of this beautiful island. Whether you’re interested in dramatic cliffs, mountain peaks, or quaint villages, this tour covers the essentials in just two days, making your Madeira visit truly memorable.