MADEIRA TOUR- SANTANA EAST TOUR STRAW THATCHED ROOFED HOUSES

MADEIRA TOUR – SANTANA EAST TOUR STRAW THATCHED ROOFED HOUSES

Location: Madeira, Portugal
Country: Portugal
Rating: 5/5 (20 reviews)
Supplier: Spot Madeira Travel
Duration: 7.5 hours
Starting Times: Check availability for current options

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First Impressions: What’s in Store and Why We Think It’s Worth It

This full-day tour takes you through Madeira’s lush northeastern landscapes, starting from Funchal with visits to the iconic Santana thatched houses, panoramic views from Pico do Areeiro, and the dramatic Ponta de São Lourenço coastline. Along the way, you’ll stop at Porto da Cruz Rum Factory for tastings and explore the charming village of Ribeiro Frio, where a short walk in a UNESCO World Heritage forest is possible.

What we really love about this experience is its focus on authentic local culture—those colorful, A-frame houses in Santana are a genuine glimpse into Madeira’s building traditions—and the breathtaking vistas you’ll get from high vantage points like Pico do Areeiro. Plus, the scenic finale at Ponta de São Lourenço offers stark, inspiring landscapes that are perfect for photos and quiet reflection.

A consideration is the length of the day—at 7.5 hours, it’s a full schedule, so travelers who prefer more relaxed pacing might find it a bit intense. The tour’s value lies in combining cultural sights, natural beauty, and local flavors in one well-organized trip, making it ideal for those who want a rundown of Madeira’s east.

This tour suits first-time visitors eager to see highlights, culture lovers, or anyone wanting a balanced mix of scenic views, traditional architecture, and local flavors. If you’re keen on authentic experiences with plenty of photo opportunities, this tour ticks all those boxes.

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Key Points

Authentic Madeira Culture: Visit the iconic thatched houses of Santana, showcasing traditional architecture.
Stunning Panoramic Vistas: Enjoy breathtaking views from Pico do Areeiro and Faial.
Natural Beauty: Explore the rugged coastline at Ponta de São Lourenço and walk in a UNESCO World Heritage forest at Ribeiro Frio.
Local Flavors: Sample Madeira’s famous rum at Porto da Cruz Rum Factory.
Comfort & Convenience: Transportation is included, with pickup options from Funchal, making the day seamless.
Well-Organized Itinerary: The tour balances sightseeing, culture, and leisure.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point & Transportation

The tour begins with a pickup from Funchal, the island’s lively capital. The transport is comfortable, ensuring you can relax and enjoy the scenery as you head northeast. Depending on your hotel location, pickups outside Funchal or Caniço may incur extra charges or require prior arrangement, so check in advance.

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Pico do Areeiro: A High-Altitude Panorama

Your first stop is Pico do Areeiro, one of Madeira’s highest peaks. From here, you’ll have views that stretch across the island’s mountainous heart. Expect a brief but memorable photo opportunity, with sweeping vistas that make you appreciate Madeira’s rugged terrain. We loved the way the guide explained the landscape’s formation, giving context to these impressive views.

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Faial & Scenic Views

Next, you’ll visit the charming village of Faial, where guided tours often include a walk through the village and around scenic lookout points. The views here are captivating, with lush slopes descending toward the coast. Several reviews highlighted just how stunning the scenery is—“We were blown away by the places are stunning,” one reviewer noted.

Santana & the Traditional Houses

The highlight for many is Santana, famous worldwide for its colorful A-frame thatched houses. These structures, built with traditional techniques, have become symbols of Madeira’s rural heritage. You’ll have about 1.5 hours of free time to explore the area, take photos, and maybe buy souvenirs. The houses aren’t just pretty—they tell stories of a simpler, self-sufficient lifestyle that still influences Madeira today.

Lunch & Cultural Flavors

While meals aren’t included, there are local options available in Santana, and your guide can recommend authentic eateries. We love that you get to experience local cuisine in such a setting, adding depth to your understanding of Madeiran culture.

Porto da Cruz Rum Factory & Tasting

A visit to Porto da Cruz Rum Factory offers a delicious interlude. Here, you’ll learn about Madeira’s rum-making tradition and sample some of the island’s most famous spirits. It’s a great way to appreciate Madeira’s unique flavors, and many find the tasting session to be a highlight.

Ponta de São Lourenço & Miradouro do Rosto

The tour wraps up at Ponta de São Lourenço, a rugged, windswept peninsula with striking landscapes. The Miradouro do Rosto viewpoint offers panoramic views of the coastline, perfect for photos and quiet moments. Several reviews mention the dramatic scenery here—“The views are stunning, a real highlight,” one reviewer shared.

The Practicalities & What to Expect

Transport & Comfort: The use of comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles makes the long day easier. The pickup process is straightforward, though some locations outside Funchal attract extra fees or require a short walk to meet the guide.

Timing & Pacing: Starting times vary; check with the provider and be ready for a full day. The itinerary is packed, with each stop carefully chosen for its scenic or cultural value. Expect about 1.5 hours in Santana, time at viewpoints, and a dedicated visit to the rum factory.

Guides & Language: The tour is conducted in multiple languages, including English, Portuguese, German, French, and Spanish, thanks to live guides who provide insights that bring each location to life.

Price & Value: At a typical 7.5-hour duration, the cost is reasonable considering the transportation, guided commentary, and included visits. The value is high if you want a comprehensive snapshot of Madeira’s east, especially if you prefer guided tours to maximize your experience.

Accessibility: Travelers should wear comfortable shoes—many stops involve walking on uneven terrain or cobblestones. Bringing a jacket for higher altitudes and a camera for the stunning views is recommended.

What Our Reviewers Say

One reviewer, Nadine, called the trip “wunderschön,” but noted she was informed only an hour before pickup, highlighting the importance of clear communication. Another, Julie, praised the guide for sharing “lots of information,” and emphasized how “the scenery is stunning.” These comments reflect the tour’s overall strength: engaging guides and spectacular sights, though timing and communication can vary.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers seeking a full-day immersion in Madeira’s scenic beauty and culture. It’s suited for those who enjoy photography, stunning vistas, and authentic local architecture. It’s also ideal for those who want a structured, guided experience that touches on multiple highlights without the stress of planning each stop.

If you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to explore each location independently, some parts might feel rushed. But for many, the convenience and curated nature of this tour outweigh those considerations.

The Sum Up: Is This the Right Tour for You?

This east Madeira tour offers a balanced blend of cultural sights, natural panoramas, and local flavors. The iconic thatched houses of Santana make for memorable photos, and the panoramic views from Pico do Areeiro and Ponta de São Lourenço are simply breathtaking. The inclusion of a rum factory visit adds a fun taste of local tradition, rounding out a well-rounded experience.

The tour provides excellent value for its price, especially if you want to see multiple highlights in one day with expert guidance. It’s especially well-suited for first-time visitors, photographers, or anyone eager to understand Madeira’s landscape and history in a manageable, enjoyable way.

In short, if you’re looking for a comprehensive, scenic, and culturally enriching day that captures the essence of Madeira’s east, this tour is a strong choice.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours, with starting times depending on the day and your pickup location.

Is transportation included?
Yes, comfortable transportation is provided from Funchal, with options to arrange pickups at various locations, sometimes with extra fees.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, a jacket for higher altitudes, and cash for optional purchases or local eateries.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but local lunch options are available in Santana.

Can I visit the UNESCO World Heritage forest?
Yes, there’s an opportunity to walk in the forest at Ribeiro Frio, which is part of Madeira’s UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest.

What languages are available?
Guides speak Portuguese, English, German, French, and Spanish.

Are there any extra costs?
Extra charges may apply for pickups outside Funchal or Caniço, and optional purchases during visits.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, provided children are comfortable with a full-day tour and walking. Bring essentials like water and snacks.

What’s the best way to prepare for the day?
Wear comfortable shoes, bring a camera, and check the weather forecast—some parts are higher and windier.