West Tour of the Island

Exploring Madeira’s West Coast: A Day Tour You’ll Remember

If you’re dreaming of Madeira’s rugged landscapes, charming villages, and spectacular coastlines, the West Tour of the Island offers a comprehensive glimpse into the best this Portuguese island has to offer. For around $47, you’ll spend about 8 hours with a small group, visiting iconic sights like Camara de Lobos, the Cabo Girao skywalk, and the stunning natural pools of Porto Moniz. Guided by someone knowledgeable, this trip promises not just sightseeing but an authentic experience infused with local stories and spectacular views.

What we love is how this tour balances visual wow moments—like the transparent skywalk at Cabo Girao—with cultural stops in traditional villages such as Seixal and Sao Vicente. Plus, the small group size means more personalized attention, which makes it easier to ask questions and truly soak in the scenery. Another highlight is the ample time at each location, allowing us to explore without feeling rushed.

That said, some travelers noted the long stops can make the day feel a bit stretched out, especially if you’re eager to cover more ground. It’s a full day, and not necessarily for those seeking a quick overview. Still, if you enjoy deliberate sightseeing and want to savor Madeira’s beauty at a relaxed pace, this tour fits the bill.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate stunning vistas, are curious about Madeira’s villages, and enjoy guided commentary. If you like to explore at a comfortable pace, with plenty of opportunities for photos and local insights, this is a good choice.

Key Points

• Highlights famous spots like Cabo Girao, Porto Moniz, and Camara de Lobos.
• Small group size enhances interaction and personalized attention.
• Ample exploration time at each stop allows for photos and local discovery.
• Price point offers solid value for a comprehensive day tour.
• Includes hotel pickup for added convenience.
• Limited to 8 travelers ensures a more intimate experience.

A Deep Dive into Madeira’s West Coast Tour

When you sign up for the West Tour of the Island, you’re signing up for a well-rounded exploration of Madeira’s western highlights. From the moment we met our guide and climbed into the air-conditioned vehicle, it was clear this was more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a curated experience designed to ignite your appreciation for Madeira’s natural beauty and local charm.

The Start: Camara de Lobos

Our journey begins in the picturesque Camara de Lobos. Your guide will share stories about this quaint fishing village, believed to be the first landing site of João Gonçalvez Zarco, Madeira’s discoverer. The village’s fishing bay is postcard-perfect, with colorful boats bobbing in the water. Notably, Winston Churchill visited here and painted scenes inspired by its beauty, adding a touch of history to this seaside locale. Our stop at the PICO DA TORRE viewpoint offers an unobstructed view of this charming bay, perfect for snapping photos or just absorbing the scenery.

The Majestic Cabo Girao Skywalk

Next, we head to Cabo Girao, Europe’s highest skywalk cliff, towering at 589 meters above sea level. Standing on the glass platform, we gawked at the raw beauty of the Atlantic below and the lush hills surrounding the coast. The transparent floor gives an exhilarating perspective—trust us, it’s a bit unsettling but incredibly memorable. The views over Câmara de Lobos and Funchal are worth the few minutes spent here, making it a highlight for many travelers.

Scenic Village of Ribeira Brava

Our route takes us along the southern coast to Ribeira Brava, a village that earned its name from a turbulent river. The setting, surrounded by mountains and hugging the sea, offers a peaceful pause amid the tour’s busier moments. Travelers have noted it’s a scenic stop, perfect for a quick stroll or a chance to enjoy local life.

The Enchanting Serra d’Água and Encumeada

Traveling northward, we pass through Serra d’Água, home to Madeira’s first water power station. The road then climbs to the top of the valley, where we’re treated to vistas of both the north and south coasts—a true highlight. The views here are sweeping, with lush greenery and dramatic cliffs making for excellent photo opportunities.

The Vast Plateau of Pico Ruivo do Paul da Serra

Slightly higher up, we reach the largest plateau in Madeira, nearly 24 square kilometers at 1,500 meters elevation. This featureless expanse is perfect for appreciating the island’s unique flora and open landscape. It’s a serene spot that contrasts sharply with the rugged coastlines, giving you a sense of Madeira’s diversity.

Porto Moniz and the Natural Pools

Our day’s culmination is at Porto Moniz, famous for its natural volcanic pools. Many travelers, including those in reviews, find this part especially rewarding. The pools are free to enjoy, and the raw, rugged scenery provides a perfect backdrop for relaxation or a quick swim. We enjoyed the relaxed pace here, with plenty of time to dip our toes in the water and marvel at the boulder formations.

The Bride’s Veil and Sao Vicente

Next, we visit Miradouro do Veu da Noiva, offering breathtaking views of cliffs and waterfalls, and continue on to Sao Vicente, a village flanked by towering cliffs. The quaint chapel—constructed on a large boulder—adds a charming touch, and the scenic surroundings are a reminder of Madeira’s volcanic origins.

Practical Details & What You Should Know

The price of around $47 includes hotel pickup, which simplifies logistics. The tour operates in a small-group setting—limited to 8 travelers—which fosters a friendly atmosphere and allows for more interaction with your guide, Fernando, who many reviews praise for his knowledge and friendly manner.

The tour’s duration of 8 hours means you’ll get to see many sights but should be prepared for a long day. Some travelers have mentioned that there are quite a few long stops, which may feel a bit drawn out if you prefer a brisk pace. However, the stops are spaced to give you time for photos, exploration, and absorbing each location.

Worried about costs? Entrance fees are generally not included for some sites like Cabo Girao, but the majority of the stops, including Porto Moniz and viewpoints, are free to enjoy. The tour does not include meals or drinks, so bringing water and snacks is advisable, especially since it’s a full day.

The small group size ensures you won’t feel lost or rushed, and the air-conditioned vehicle keeps everyone comfortable, even during warmer days. The meeting point at Marina Shopping in Funchal makes it easy to start your day.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Feedback

Reviewers often highlight the knowledgeable guide Fernando as a major plus, making the experience more engaging and informative. One noted that he was “good,” and that the tour could have been shorter if not for the many stops, suggesting a well-paced but lengthy day.

The stunning views at Cabo Girao and Porto Moniz are consistently praised—many emphasize that these sights are “beautiful” and worth the journey. Several travelers appreciated the ample time at Porto Moniz to enjoy the pools and relax, which really adds value.

However, some reviews mention political comments from the driver during the trip, which might be a consideration if you prefer a strictly neutral environment. Also, the long stops might not suit travelers who prefer a faster-paced tour or shorter outings.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

If you appreciate natural beauty, scenic drives, and cultural stops, this tour is a great fit. It’s especially suitable for those who want to see Madeira’s most iconic viewpoints and villages without the hassle of organizing transportation or multiple tickets. Travelers looking for a relaxed day with plenty of opportunities for photos and local insights will find this very satisfying.

This tour is less ideal for those with mobility issues due to the amount of walking and the nature of some stops. Also, if you’re pressed for time or prefer a shorter overview, a different, more condensed tour might suit you better.

Final Thoughts

The West Tour of the Island offers a solid combination of spectacular scenery, cultural charm, and relaxed exploration. For the price, it’s a good value—especially considering the small group setting and personalized attention. The stops at Porto Moniz, Cabo Girao, and the villages provide a well-rounded view of Madeira’s diverse landscapes.

While it’s a long day, the carefully curated stops and guide’s local knowledge make it a worthwhile choice for those wanting to see Madeira beyond Funchal. If you’re eager to experience authentic sights and breathtaking vistas, this tour will certainly deliver.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transfers from select area hotels, making it easy to start your day without logistical worries.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, giving you plenty of time at each stop but also meaning it’s a full, sometimes lengthy day.

What stops are included?
You’ll visit Camara de Lobos, Cabo Girao, Ribeira Brava, Serra d’Água, Pico Ruivo do Paul da Serra, Porto Moniz, Miradouro do Veu da Noiva, and Sao Vicente.

Are entrance fees included?
Most stops are free, but some sites like Cabo Girao do not include the skywalk ticket in the price.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
It’s generally suitable for most travelers; however, the long stops and walking may be challenging for those with mobility concerns.

What should I bring?
Water, snacks, camera, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll be outdoors for much of the day.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour has a free cancellation policy if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Choosing the West Tour of the Island means opting for a comprehensive, scenic, and authentic Madeira experience, delivered with a personal touch that helps bring the island’s landscapes and villages to life.