West Madeira:, Laurel Forest, Waterfall, Rock Pools, Walk

Exploring Madeira’s West Coast with Madeira Discoverers
This guided day trip around Madeira’s western highlights costs just $32 per person and lasts around 8 hours. We start in Funchal and visit iconic spots like Cabo Girao, the fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, the Fanal Laurel Forest, the volcanic rock pools of Porto Moniz, and the Véu da Noiva waterfall near Seixal. Guided by friendly and knowledgeable guides (names like Alfredo and Ben come up in reviews), this tour offers a well-paced mix of breathtaking viewpoints, serene nature walks, and local culture.

What truly makes this experience stand out are the panoramic views from Cabo Girao, Europe’s highest sea cliff, and the mystical, mist-shrouded Fanal forest, which transports you to a fairytale landscape. The optional swim in Porto Moniz’s volcanic rock pools is a highlight for many, offering a chance to cool off in crystal-clear waters while enjoying spectacular ocean vistas.

A small potential downside is that lunch isn’t included, so bringing snacks or planning a quick meal during the stop in Porto Moniz might be wise. Also, the tour involves some long driving stretches through varied terrain, so expect a fair amount of time on the coach—perfect if you’re comfortable with that kind of travel but possibly less ideal if you’re eager to explore on your own at a more leisurely pace.

This tour suits travelers who love nature, scenic views, and cultural touches. It’s particularly good for those who appreciate detailed commentary from guides—many reviews praise Alfredo and Ben for their knowledge—and for anyone wanting a rundown of Madeira’s varied landscapes without renting a car or planning multiple day trips.

Key Points

• Stunning vistas from Cabo Girao’s skywalk offer a thrill and incredible photo opportunities.
• Serene walks through Fanal provide a peaceful immersion in ancient laurel forests.
• Porto Moniz’s volcanic rock pools deliver a refreshing swim and scenic ocean views.
• Guided tours bring local stories and insights directly to you, enriching the experience.
• Value for money is high, with numerous stops, scenic drives, and expert commentary included.
• Flexibility in optional activities, like swimming or wine tasting, enhance personalization.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Review of Madeira’s West Tour

Starting the Day: From Funchal to First Stops

The tour kicks off in Funchal, where your guide will pick you up from your hotel or designated meeting point. From there, it’s a comfortable ride with scenic views en route to your first stop, Câmara de Lobos. This charming fishing village, made famous by Winston Churchill’s visits in the 1950s, offers a glimpse into traditional Madeira life. In reviews, travelers love the authentic charm of this spot and the chance to stroll along its colorful waterfront or enjoy a quick coffee in a sidewalk café.

The next-leg takes us to Cabo Girao, which at 580 meters above sea level is one of Europe’s tallest sea cliffs. The glass skywalk is the highlight here—walking on transparent panels that seem to hover above the ocean might make your knees wobble, but the views are unforgettable. Entrance to the skywalk costs about €2, and many reviewers mention how this “exhilarating” experience is well worth a small fee for the thrill and the spectacular photo opportunities.

Scenic Stops and Cultural Touches

After Cabo Girao, we head to Ribeira Brava, a seaside town with a pretty church and a lively market. Here you’ll have about 30 minutes to explore, grab a snack, or simply soak in the atmosphere. Many reviews highlight the relaxed pace, giving you enough time to enjoy these small towns without feeling rushed.

Next comes the Fanal forest reserve, a highlight for nature lovers. We drive via Ponta do Sol to Paul da Serra, a high plateau where the landscape transforms into a misty, otherworldly scene. Fanal is famous for its old-growth Laurel trees, some over a century old, standing amidst a wild, slightly eerie setting often shrouded in fog. A walk here offers a peaceful escape and a chance for beautiful photographs. Reviewers often describe the area as “eerie,” “magical,” and “surreal,” making it clear why this is a favorite stop.

The Water and the Pools: Porto Moniz

The next major highlight is Porto Moniz, renowned for its volcanic rock pools. These natural swimming holes are filled with seawater, clear and cool, offering a unique chance to splash around while enjoying views of the Atlantic. Many travelers mention that they took a dip and found it refreshing—a perfect cool-down after a day of sightseeing.

You have about 90 minutes here to relax, eat, or explore the seaside town. Several reviews praise the value of this stop, with comments like “we swam in the pools and enjoyed a lovely lunch with ocean views.” Be aware that lunch isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

After Porto Moniz, the tour stops at the Véu da Noiva waterfall near Seixal—a stunning cascade framed by lush greenery and often seen with a backdrop of mist or rain, depending on the weather. This scenic viewpoint appeals to photography buffs and nature enthusiasts alike.

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Final Stops and Return Journey

Next, we visit a local Madeira wine producer for a tasting. While brief, many reviewers loved this opportunity to sample Madeira’s famous fortified wine, adding a flavorful note to the day. The tour then heads inland to São Vicente, a small town nestled between mountains, where you can stretch your legs and, if timing allows, learn a bit more about local life.

On the drive back, passing through the Serra de Agua gorge, you’ll see impressive mountain scenery and a mountain stream. The return to Funchal involves a tunnel crossing the mountains, giving you a scenic but comfortable end to your day.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

At just $32 per person, this tour packs a lot—stunning views, cultural insights, and active opportunities like swimming and hiking—all guided by someone who shares interesting tidbits along the way. Considering that many reviews mention how guides like Alfredo and Ben are knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to share the island’s stories, you’re paying for more than just the scenery—you get a sense of Madeira’s soul.

The scenic drives alone are worth the price, especially if you’re short on time and want to see the highlights without the hassle of planning each stop yourself. The optional activities, like the skywalk and the rock pools, allow you to tailor the experience to your interests, whether that’s breathtaking vistas or a dip in the ocean.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring comfortable shoes for the walking portions at Fanal and other stops.
• Pack swimwear and a towel if you plan to enjoy Porto Moniz’s pools.
• Carry water and some cash—some stops, like the wine tasting or local cafés, might prefer cash payments.
• Be prepared for varying weather; Madeira’s climate can change quickly with altitude, so a light jacket is wise.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for nature lovers and scenery seekers. If you’re eager to see Madeira’s famous cliffs, ancient forests, and volcanic pools without renting a car, this guided experience is perfect. It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate guided storytelling—many reviews highlight guides’ knowledge and passion for the island’s stories and natural wonders.

Travelers who enjoy moderate activity like walks in forested areas or wading in cool waters will find this tour rewarding. However, if you’re looking for a completely relaxed, no-driving day, or want to explore on your own schedule, you might prefer more flexible options.

Final Words

This tour offers a balanced blend of natural beauty, cultural insights, and fun activities for a reasonable price. The stops at Cabo Girao, the Fanal Laurel Forest, and the Porto Moniz pools are genuinely memorable, making it a solid choice for those visiting Madeira for the first time.

The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge, combined with the spectacular scenery, make this a day to remember. It’s a great way to tick off Madeira’s must-see spots without the hassle of navigating yourself.

If you’re after a value-packed, scenic, and insightful day trip that highlights the best of Madeira’s west coast, this tour checks all the boxes. Just remember to come prepared for some on-the-go exploration, bring your camera, and enjoy the incredible views.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an age limit for this tour?
The tour is suitable for most ages, but it’s best for those comfortable with walking and some uneven terrain at Fanal or the volcanic pools.

How long is the drive between stops?
Drive times vary; for example, the trip from Funchal to Câmara de Lobos takes about 25 minutes, while the journey to Porto Moniz is around 20 minutes. Some stretches are longer but scenic.

Are meals included during the tour?
No, meals are not included. The tour includes a stop in Porto Moniz where you can buy food or bring your own snacks.

Can I swim in the Porto Moniz pools?
Yes, many travelers swim in the volcanic pools during their 90-minute stop—bring swimwear and a towel.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
While the coach is accessible, some stops involve walking in natural, uneven terrain, so it may not be ideal for those with limited mobility.

Do I need to pay extra for activities?
The skywalk at Cabo Girao costs about €2, and the wine tasting is usually included or offered as a brief tasting. Swimming or additional attractions are at your own expense.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, water, a jacket (for higher altitudes), swimwear if swimming, and cash for optional purchases or tips.

This Madeira west coast tour offers a fantastic blend of scenic beauty, cultural flavor, and fun experiences—all at a value price. Whether you’re after photo-worthy vistas, peaceful nature walks, or a splash in volcanic pools, it’s a day well spent on this stunning island.

You can check availability for your dates here: