Discover The East – Madeira Island

Discover The East – Madeira Island: A Practical and Authentic Day Out

If you’re visiting Madeira and want a taste of the island’s diverse landscapes and charming villages, the Discover The East tour offers a well-rounded day trip for just over $35 per person. Starting at 9:00 am, it covers key spots like Pico do Areeiro, Santana’s iconic thatched cottages, and Ponta de São Lourenço, all packed into about 8 hours. The tour includes hotel pickup, which is a big plus if you want to avoid the hassle of finding your own way around.

Two things we particularly like about this experience are the spectacular mountain vistas from Pico do Areeiro and the opportunity to see traditional Madeira houses in Santana—both genuine highlights that deliver authentic scenery and culture. Another advantage is the knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with local insights, making each stop more meaningful.

A possible consideration is the short time spent at each stop, with reviews indicating around 20 minutes at some locations. If you’re eager to explore in depth, this might feel rushed, but for most travelers wanting a good overview, it’s sufficient. This tour is ideal for those who appreciate a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and light walking, especially if you prefer guided tours to maximize learning and ease.

This tour suits travelers seeking a value-packed day that covers Madeira’s east coast highlights without breaking the bank. If you enjoy scenic vistas, traditional villages, and guided narratives, you’ll find this trip quite satisfying.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At around $35, this tour offers good value for seeing Madeira’s east coast.
• Diverse Stops: From mountain peaks to colorful villages, it covers a variety of classic Madeira sights.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides help bring each location to life with local insights.
• Flexible Schedule: The itinerary includes multiple stops, though some are brief.
• Authentic Encounters: Opportunities to see traditional houses and local manufacturing processes.
• Limited Time at Stops: Some travelers might find 20-minute visits too short for a full experience.

A Deep Dive into the East Madeira Tour

Starting Point and First Stop: Camacha Parish Church

The day kicks off in the charming village of Camacha, perched on a high plateau. Known for its basketing tradition and folkloric groups, the village offers a peaceful start with a nice walk around its wooded surroundings. You’ll get a brief 20-minute visit; enough to soak in its rustic charm and perhaps snap a few photos of the traditional crafts. Reviewers mention this as a lovely introduction, especially if you appreciate local craftsmanship—like Beth, who enjoyed the engaging guide and the visits to fun places, including this village.

Climbing to Pico do Areeiro

Next up is Pico do Areeiro, at 1818 meters, the third-highest point on the island. Here, spectacular mountain views await you, with vistas stretching over the volcanic landscape and into the valleys below. The 20-minute stop is enough to admire the landscape, but be prepared for wind and chilly temperatures—layers are your friends. The view of the surrounding valleys and the feeling of being on top of the world really make this a highlight. Sylvia loved the dramatic scenery, and many find that this peak captures the essence of Madeira’s volcanic terrain.

Ribeiro Frio and the Trout Nursery

Descending into Ribeiro Frio, you’ll visit a trout nursery in the midst of aromatic forests. This tranquil spot offers a nice break in nature, with a chance to see how local trout are farmed and released into the brook. The environmental benefits of the nursery add an educational element, and if you’re a foodie, you might be tempted by the local trout dishes. The 30-minute stop is brief but well-placed, and you’ll appreciate the peacefulness of the forest. Several reviews mention the pleasant environment and the chance to see native flora and fauna.

Santana and Its Typical Triangular Houses

The colorful village of Santana is perhaps one of the most iconic sights on Madeira, famous for its traditional wooden cottages with thatched roofs. The two-hour visit allows for a deeper look at local architecture and a stroll through the charming streets. Reviewers like Sylvia found Santana to be beautiful and lively, noting that some of the original cottages still survive amidst modern homes. It’s an excellent spot for photos and understanding local life, especially if you’re interested in cultural preservation.

Ponta de São Lourenço: Wild Coastal Scenery

The rugged Ponta de São Lourenço is where you’ll get striking coastal views, walking along a rocky promontory with native vegetation and seabirds as your companions. This part of the tour is about 20 minutes, but guided commentary enriches the experience by pointing out native plants and wildlife you might miss on your own. Beth enjoyed the fabulous scenery along the coast, making it one of her favorite parts of the trip.

Machico: The Historical Landing Site

Finally, the tour visits Praia de Machico, a small cove where the first Portuguese explorers landed in 1420. The stop here is brief but meaningful, offering a chance to walk along the beach and imagine early explorers setting foot on the island. Many reviewers, like Ellen, appreciated the fabulous views of the sea and mountains, and found the stop a fitting conclusion to the day.

Practical Aspects and Experience Highlights

The tour is operated by Feeling Madeira – Tours & Walks, and limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience. The mobile ticket system and hotel pickup make it convenient, especially if you’re staying in Funchal. The 8-hour duration balances enough sightseeing without feeling rushed, though some stops are quite brief.

The price of around $35.44 is quite reasonable considering the number of sites visited and the guided nature of the trip. The inclusion of local insights and a friendly guide significantly enhances the value, making it a good option for those who prefer touring with some structure but still want to experience Madeira’s authenticity.

Transportation and Group Size

Small group sizes mean you’ll get more personalized attention and less time waiting around. The transportation specifics aren’t detailed, but the fact that pickup is offered points to a comfortable, direct transfer from your hotel.

Weather and Cancellation

Good weather is essential—if weather cancels the trip, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. This is standard practice, but it’s worth noting if you’re visiting during unpredictable weather seasons.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want a broad overview of Madeira’s east coast. It’s especially suited for those interested in scenic mountain vistas, traditional villages, and native wildlife. If you enjoy guided commentary that brings places to life, you’ll appreciate the knowledgeable guides. It’s less ideal for travelers wanting longer visits or more adventure—the short stops mean it’s better suited for a taste of Madeira rather than an in-depth exploration.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after an affordable, well-organized way to see Madeira’s east coast highlights, this tour hits the mark. It combines stunning landscapes with cultural insights, all delivered by friendly guides who add a lively touch. The value for money is good, especially if you appreciate guided tours that take the hassle out of planning.

However, if you’re someone who prefers more time at each site or plans to explore on a more leisurely pace, you may find the 20-minute stops a bit limited. Still, for most travelers wanting a rundown that hits all the main points, this trip offers a practical, enjoyable introduction to Madeira’s east.

In sum, this tour is a solid choice for first-timers or those short on time but eager to experience the best of Madeira’s natural beauty and traditional culture.

FAQ

How long is the Discover The East tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning around 5:00 pm.

What locations are visited during the tour?
Stops include Camacha parish church, Pico do Areeiro, Ribeiro Frio trout nursery, Santana, Ponta de São Lourenço, and Praia de Machico.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered from your hotel, making it convenient for travelers staying in Funchal.

How much does the tour cost?
The tour costs around $35.44 per person, offering good value for the variety of sites covered.

Are there any age or mobility restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but the tour involves some walking, especially at scenic viewpoints and villages.

Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes, the tour can be canceled for poor weather, with the option of a different date or a full refund if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

This Madeira east coast tour combines natural beauty, cultural depth, and friendly guidance into a pocket-friendly package—an excellent way to get your bearings on this diverse island.