Curral das Freiras & Peaks 4WD Tour

If you’re drawn to rugged mountain scenery, breathtaking views, and a taste of local history, the Curral das Freiras & Peaks 4WD tour offers a compelling way to explore Madeira’s dramatic landscape. For around $50, you’ll spend about three and a half hours with a knowledgeable guide, visiting highlights like Pico dos Barcelos, the deep Nun’s Valley, and the Pico do Arieiro – Madeira’s third highest peak. The tour is run by Green Devil Safari, and many travelers find it well worth the price given the memorable scenery and personal touch.

Two things we especially appreciate are how it combines panoramic viewpoints—like Pico dos Barcelos, which offers sweeping views over Funchal and the Desertas Islands—and the opportunity to step into the island’s unique history at Curral das Freiras, once a refuge for nuns. The open-air 4WD vehicle adds a sense of adventure, perfect for navigating Madeira’s steep mountain roads.

One potential consideration is that the tour moves quickly through most stops—about 10 to 15 minutes per viewpoint—so if you’re keen on lingering or taking detailed photos, it might feel a bit rushed. Also, if you’re arriving from outside Funchal or Caniço, there’s an extra fee for pickup, which can add to your budget.

This tour suits travelers who love stunning vistas, want an authentic experience with local guides, and enjoy off-road adventures. It’s ideal for those who prefer seeing multiple highlights without a full day commitment, especially if you’re short on time but eager to see some of Madeira’s most iconic sights.

Key Points

• Stunning viewpoints like Pico dos Barcelos and Pico do Arieiro offer panoramic vistas.
• The route includes the unique Nun’s Valley, a deep mountain encircled by steep slopes, with historical significance.
• 4WD transport adds an adventurous element, perfect for navigating Madeira’s rugged terrain.
• Short stop durations make for a quick but rundown of each site.
• Guides are knowledgeable and make the trip enjoyable with local insights.
• Extra fees may apply if you’re not within Funchal or Caniço for pickup.

Exploring the Details of the Curral das Freiras & Peaks 4WD Tour

What’s Included and How It Adds Value

The tour provides a local guide, which enhances the experience with insider knowledge about Madeira’s landscape and history. The mobile ticket makes it easy to book and carry with you, while the pickup service can be arranged if you’re staying within Funchal or Caniço—though outside these areas, there’s a modest extra fee. With a maximum group size of 24, it feels intimate enough for personal interactions but still lively.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Pico dos Barcelos Viewpoint (355 meters above sea level)

We start at this scenic overlook just a short drive from Funchal. The views here are spectacular—not just of the city but also of the Desertas Islands in the distance. It’s a classic photo spot, especially when the weather is clear, and the vantage point really sets the tone for the day. Expect about 10 minutes here; it’s enough to snap a few photos, soak in the scenery, and appreciate Madeira’s steeply terraced landscape.

Curral das Freiras (Nun’s Valley)

This deep valley, only 29 km from Câmara de Lobos, is the highlight for many. Surrounded by towering mountains—some over 1,800 meters—this former refuge for nuns in the 15th century feels like stepping into a mountain fortress. The tiny village perched in the valley is mostly composed of houses that overlook the main chestnut and cherry orchards, which still thrive today.

One traveler noted, “We loved the way the valley is so secluded, yet so rich with history.” The brief 15-minute stop allows you to walk around, take photos, and imagine what life was like for the nuns seeking safety from pirates and invaders centuries ago.

Miradouro do Paredão

This reforestation project area offers a fresh perspective on land management efforts and the natural beauty of Madeira. From this viewpoint, you get a distinct view of Curral das Freiras and the surrounding mountains. It’s an excellent spot for quiet reflection and photography, with about 10 minutes to enjoy the scenery.

Pico do Arieiro (1,818 meters)

The tour’s grand finale is the third-highest peak on Madeira. Standing here, you’ll see clouds drift below you on most days, creating a dramatic backdrop. On a clear day, you might even spot Porto Santo across the sea—about 30 miles away. The crisp mountain air and expansive vistas make this stop a true highlight. You’ll typically spend about 10 minutes here, enough to take in the views and snap some memorable photos.

The Experience: What It Feels Like

Traveling through Madeira’s winding mountain roads in a 4WD adds a sense of adventure that many travelers find exhilarating. The terrain is steep and sometimes challenging, but the vehicle handles it smoothly, offering a comfortable ride while revealing the island’s rugged beauty up close.

The guides are usually local, with a passion for sharing their knowledge and stories. One review mentioned “our guide, Miguel, was fantastic—friendly, informative, and full of local stories that made the experience feel authentic.”

Timing and Group Size

At about three and a half hours, this tour strikes a good balance—long enough to see multiple sights without feeling rushed. The small group size (up to 24) allows for a more intimate experience, and the pickup option helps streamline logistics.

Price and Value

The cost of $50.88 per person is reasonable considering the diverse stops and off-road adventure. Keep in mind that additional fees apply if you’re outside Funchal or Caniço, but overall, the tour offers a solid value for the scenery and cultural insights you gain.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who love scenic views and mountain landscapes, and want a taste of Madeira’s history. If you enjoy adventure travel in a comfortable setting—with a small group and knowledgeable locals—this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially suited for travelers with limited time who still want to see the island’s most iconic viewpoints and learn about its past.

The Sum Up: The Best of Madeira in a Half-Day

The Curral das Freiras & Peaks 4WD tour packs some of Madeira’s most stunning vistas into a manageable three-and-a-half-hour window. You’ll get to see panoramic city views, deep mountain valleys, and lofty peaks, all while riding comfortably in a 4WD vehicle. The stops are brief but impactful, allowing you to soak in each scene without feeling overwhelmed.

What makes this tour stand out is how it combines natural beauty with local history, especially at Nun’s Valley, which offers a glimpse into Madeira’s rugged past. The guide’s local knowledge adds authenticity, making the experience more meaningful.

If you’re after a short, scenic, adventure-filled tour that highlights Madeira’s most dramatic landscapes, this is a solid choice. It’s suitable for solo travelers, couples, or small groups who want an efficient yet immersive glimpse into the island’s grandeur.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour?
Pickup is offered, but if you are staying outside Funchal or Caniço, there’s an extra fee—around 5 euros per person.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including all stops and transit time.

What sights will I see?
You’ll visit Pico dos Barcelos for city views, Nun’s Valley for history and scenery, Miradouro do Paredão, and Pico do Arieiro for spectacular mountain vistas.

Are the stops long enough to take photos?
Most stops are about 10 to 15 minutes, so you’ll have time to take photos, but if you want to linger longer, you might find it a bit rushed.

Is the vehicle comfortable and safe?
Yes, the 4WD vehicle is suitable for Madeira’s mountain roads, and the groups are kept small for safety and comfort.

What is the price of the tour?
It costs around $50.88 per person, which offers good value considering the scenic variety and guided experience.

Can children join this tour?
While specific age limits aren’t listed, most travelers find it suitable for families; just check with the provider if you have very young children.

In sum, this tour offers a well-rounded peek at Madeira’s most dramatic landscapes, with the added thrill of off-road driving and local storytelling. It’s a smart choice for travelers wanting quick access to the island’s most memorable sights without sacrificing depth or authenticity.