Madeira: East Coast Cabriolet Road Trip

This private, 7-hour tour offers a chance to see Madeira in a style that’s as exhilarating as it is scenic. Think wind in your hair, sun on your face, and some of the most breathtaking vistas Portugal’s island has to offer, all from the comfort of a sleek convertible. It’s a ride that balances adventure, charm, and the chance to really get a feel for the island’s diverse landscapes.

What we love about this experience is how it combines dramatic coastal views with authentic stops in local villages, all wrapped in the fun of driving a stylish cabriolet. The route takes you from the rugged cliffs of Ponta de São Lourenço to the lush hills of Portela, culminating with panoramic vistas from Pico Areeiro, one of Madeira’s highest peaks. Plus, the chance to sample regional delicacies in Porto da Cruz adds a delicious touch.

One thing to keep in mind: the tour is quite active in terms of scenery, but the pace is relaxed enough to truly savor each stop. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a mix of thrill, culture, and stunning picture-perfect moments. If you’re craving a flexible, private experience that maximizes views and authentic local flavor, this tour is likely to be just right.

Good To Know

• Stylish Convertible Ride: Experience Madeira’s landscapes with the wind in your hair.
• Authentic Stops: Visit charming villages like Santana and taste local delicacies.
• Panoramic Views: From Pico Areeiro to Ponta de São Lourenço, scenery is spectacular.
• Private Tour: Tailored experience with a dedicated guide and flexible itinerary.
• Ideal for Scenic Lovers: Perfect for those seeking a relaxed yet adventure-filled day.
• Additional Costs: Food, drinks, special pickups outside Funchal, or at the harbor may incur extra fees.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Experience: A Detailed Breakdown

Starting Point & Pickup Options

The tour begins with pickup from several key locations around Madeira, including Machico, Ponta do Sol, Estreito da Calheta, Ponta Delgada, and Funchal. This flexibility helps travelers avoid unnecessary driving and makes meeting up straightforward. The driver, speaking several languages including English, French, Spanish, and Portuguese, acts as your guide, providing insights along the way. If you’re staying in a hotel or Airbnb with difficulty accessing parking, the pickup service makes the start seamless.

The Dramatic Ponta de São Lourenço

Your adventure kicks off at Ponta de São Lourenço, a dramatic peninsula known for sheer cliffs and sweeping ocean views. With the top down, you’ll feel the ocean breeze and smell the salt in the air — a sensory highlight that makes this part unforgettable. Here, photo opportunities are abundant, especially at Ponta do Rosto, where the landscape seems to stretch endlessly into the horizon.

Coastal & Cultural Highlights

Driving along the coast, the route takes you through lush hills, offering a contrast to the stark cliffs. The trip includes a visit to Porto da Cruz, a vibrant village famous for its regional delicacies and local culture. Reviewers mention enjoying taste-testing regional treats, which adds a delicious layer to the day. You might also find that local guides share stories about Madeira’s traditional houses and customs, making the stop more enriching.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Santana & Ponte da Ribeira d’Ametade

Next, the charming village of Santana charms visitors with its iconic traditional houses—distinctive A-frame roofs painted in bright colors. It’s a great chance to step into a postcard scene and learn about Madeira’s rural roots. The scenic Ponte da Ribeira d’Ametade offers a peaceful spot to soak in nature’s beauty, with reviews noting the tranquility and picture-perfect surroundings.

Refreshing Nature & Panoramic Views

Stops at Fajã da Murta and Ribeiro Frio provide a taste of Madeira’s lush flora and quiet charm. These locations may include short walks or photo breaks, with reviewers appreciating the balance of travel and leisure. The highlight for many is the ascent to Pico Areeiro, one of the island’s highest points, offering sweeping views that make the climb well worth it. The sense of being on top of the world here is palpable, and the scenery is stunning in every direction.

The Final Spectacle: Terreiro da Luta & Beyond

The tour wraps up with a visit to Terreiro da Luta, a popular viewpoint that perfectly captures Madeira’s captivating landscape. From here, you’ll get a panoramic perspective of the island’s rugged terrain and lush valleys, a fitting end to a day packed with visual treats.

What to Expect & Practical Tips

• Vehicle & Comfort: You’ll ride in a Mercedes CLK Cabriolet, which is comfortable yet stylish, perfect for enjoying the scenery with the top down.
• Duration & Timing: The tour lasts about 7 hours, with flexibility based on starting times. Expect a relaxed pace that allows ample time at each stop.
• Guidance & Commentary: The driver acts as a guide, sharing insights in multiple languages. Expect lively commentary and local anecdotes.
• Meal & Refreshment: Food and drinks aren’t included, but stops in Porto da Cruz and Santana provide opportunities to taste regional delicacies or grab a snack.
• Additional Costs: Pickup outside Funchal, at the harbor, or at specific locations like Porto Moniz involve extra fees — plan accordingly.
• Weather & Clothing: Bring sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, camera, water, and comfortable clothes. The open-top car maximizes scenic views but offers little shelter, so dress appropriately.

Unique Highlights & Reviewer Insights

Travelers consistently comment on how the stunning coastal and mountain views make this trip special. The breeze, the chance to see Madeira’s varied landscapes from a convertible, and the authentic village visits create a well-rounded experience. One reviewer appreciated the guide’s local knowledge and friendly attitude, noting that “the stops felt personal and genuine.” Others mentioned how the delicious regional treats added a flavorful touch to the day.

Downsides & Considerations

Some reviews note the extra costs for pickups outside Funchal or the harbor, so budget for that if applicable. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so those with mobility issues will need to consider alternative options. Also, because it’s a private experience, it’s tailored but may not suit travelers looking for group tours or larger crowds.

Final Thoughts

This Madeira East Coast Cabriolet Road Trip offers a rich blend of scenic drives, cultural stops, and stunning vistas all experienced from the comfort of a luxurious convertible. It’s ideal for travelers who want an intimate, personalized way to explore Madeira’s diverse landscapes without feeling rushed. The route’s highlights—draped in natural beauty and complemented by regional tastes—make it a standout choice for scenic lovers and photo enthusiasts alike.

The tour’s value lies in its flexibility, comfort, and the chance to see Madeira’s wild coast and lush mountain peaks in one memorable day. Whether you’re a nature lover, a culture seeker, or simply after a fun and stylish way to explore, this experience delivers.

If you’re after a trip that balances adventure with comfort, offers authentic local flavor, and leaves you with plenty of stunning photos, this tour is a fantastic pick. Just remember to pack your camera, sunglasses, and a sense of adventure.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for all ages? The tour is designed for most travelers, but it’s not wheelchair accessible and involves some walking at stops like Pico Areeiro.

What should I bring? Sunglasses, a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothing are recommended to enjoy the outdoor stops comfortably.

Can I customize the stops? As a private tour, the guide can tailor the experience to your interests, but major stops are part of the set itinerary.

Are meals included? No, meals and drinks are not included, but there are opportunities to taste regional delicacies at stops like Porto da Cruz and Santana.

What happens if it rains? Madeira’s weather can be unpredictable; consider bringing a light rain jacket. The convertible may be less enjoyable in heavy rain, so check the forecast beforehand.

How much does the tour cost? The price covers the private vehicle, guide, fuel, and pickup/drop-off in Funchal. Additional fees apply for pickups outside Funchal or at the harbor.

You can check if your dates are available here: