If you’re looking for a way to see Madeira beyond the typical tourist spots, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the island’s natural beauty in the west. It’s a carefully curated experience that combines exhilarating rides, stunning scenery, and local flavor—all within a manageable 5-hour window. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, this trip has plenty to offer.
Three things we particularly like about this experience are the thrilling cable car ride to Achadas da Cruz, the refreshing natural pools at Porto Moniz, and the dramatic black sand beach at Seixal. Plus, the inclusion of a local drink and coffee adds a friendly, authentic touch. A possible drawback? The tour relies heavily on weather conditions, especially for the cable car, which could mean some adjustments on the day.
This experience suits travelers who appreciate stunning landscapes, small-group settings, and genuine local encounters—perfect for cruise passengers eager to explore Madeira’s wild side without overextending their schedule.
Good To Know
- Stunning scenery: The tour showcases Madeira’s lush greenery, volcanic coastlines, and striking black sand beaches.
- Unique transportation: The cable car ride is a highlight, offering a 600-meter descent with Europe’s steepest gradient.
- Authentic local culture: Includes a tasting of Poncha, Madeira’s famous local drink, plus a coffee break.
- Flexible itinerary: The stops are thoughtfully spaced, with options for free time and photo opportunities.
- Weather-dependent activities: The cable car can be closed due to weather, so some flexibility is needed.
- Small group experience: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring more personalized attention and better interaction.
An In-Depth Look at the Tour
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Starting Point and Transport
We kick off at the Cruise Terminal in Funchal, making this a convenient option for cruise ship travelers wanting a guided adventure. The transportation is included, and the journey to Achadas da Cruz in the tour’s electric van lasts about 75 minutes. This isn’t just a transfer—it’s a chance to start soaking in Madeira’s lush scenery, as the vehicle winds through the hills and along the coast.
Achadas da Cruz: A Cable Car Adventure and Scenic Haven
The star of this trip is the cable car ride down 600 meters to Achadas da Cruz. It’s touted as one of Europe’s steepest, with a gradient of 98%, which makes it an exciting, if slightly nerve-wracking, experience. But don’t worry—most find it quick, lasting only about five minutes, and the views are worth every second.
What makes Achadas da Cruz special is its remarkable setting: a peaceful spot perched between high green cliffs and the roaring Atlantic Ocean. You can expect plenty of photo opportunities here, along with a chance to take a gentle walk around the area. One reviewer, Marc Erik, commented on how the guide, Richard, was very knowledgeable, sharing insights about Madeira and its people, which added depth to the experience. He even mentioned that Richard was friendly and good at explaining in English, despite some guests’ limited language skills.
Porto Moniz: Natural Sea Pools
Next, the tour takes you to Porto Moniz, famous for its natural volcanic pools. These are formed by black volcanic rocks—an incredible contrast against the turquoise water. The pools are perfect for cooling off and relaxing after the cable car adventure. The guide points out some hidden pools for those seeking quieter spots away from crowds, which is a real bonus.
The pools are a fantastic spot to unwind and take in the raw power of Madeira’s geological forces. The experience of stepping into these natural baths, with the Atlantic crashing around you, is unforgettable. Remember, access is included in the tour, but the entrance fee isn’t, which is worth factoring into your budget.
More Great Thing To Do NearbySeixal: Dramatic Black Sand Beach and Waterfalls
The final stop is the black sand beach at Seixal, which has gained Instagram fame for its striking landscape. The landscape here is picture-perfect: dark sands, lush green backdrop, and nearby waterfalls tumbling down cliffs. Expect around 30 minutes to take photos, stroll along the beach, or simply enjoy the scenery.
This area showcases Madeira’s volcanic origins and is a peaceful place to reflect before heading back. The guide often mentions how Seixal’s scenery makes it an ideal location for capturing memorable photos, and visitors frequently comment on the stunning views.
Local Flavor and Relaxed Pace
A highlight is the stop at a local Poncha bar. Poncha, Madeira’s iconic drink made from distilled sugarcane spirit, honey, and lemon or other fruit, is an authentic way to toast your day. One reviewer, Marc Erik, appreciated Richard’s recommendation, noting how the drink added a friendly, community feel to the tour.
The tour culminates with a relaxed return journey to Funchal, where you can reflect on the day’s highlights and possibly swap stories with fellow travelers. The small group setting ensures an intimate, engaging experience, and the guide’s local insights add depth beyond just sightseeing.
Practical Details and Value
For $57 per person, this tour offers a great balance of adventure, scenery, and culture. Since it includes transportation, the cable car fee, one drink, and coffee, it delivers good value—especially considering the small group size, which fosters a more personalized experience.
The 5-hour duration is ideal for cruise passengers wanting a taste of Madeira without overcommitting. The tour operates with flexibility, but weather can impact certain activities, notably the cable car, so some reactivity from the guide is expected.
The inclusion of insurance and the option to cancel 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind. The guide, Richard, receives high praise for his friendliness and knowledge, making the trip more than just sightseeing—it’s an engaging experience.
Important Considerations
- The cable car can be closed due to weather or maintenance, so be prepared for possible adjustments.
- Travelers should wear comfortable shoes, bring sun protection, and pack swimwear if they plan to enjoy the pools or beach.
- The tour isn’t suitable for children under 12, those with mobility issues, or people with vertigo, given the steep cable car and uneven terrain.
Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?
This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy natural beauty and a bit of thrill—like the cable car descent. It suits those who want a small-group, personalized experience with knowledgeable guides, as well as travelers eager to see Madeira’s volcanic coast, lush cliffs, and black sands.
It’s an excellent choice if you want a balanced day that combines scenic highlights with authentic local flavor, such as Poncha and picturesque stops. However, if you’re looking for a relaxed, beach-only day or have mobility restrictions, this might not be the best fit.
Overall, for the price and what’s included, this tour offers a good value and a memorable way to experience Madeira’s wild west. It’s a hands-on, photo-friendly, and genuinely scenic day out that captures the island’s rugged charm.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?
Yes, it starts and ends at the Funchal cruise terminal, making it very convenient for cruise travelers.
What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 5 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability.
What’s included in the price?
Transportation from Funchal port, the cable car fee at Achadas da Cruz, a local guide, a bottle of water, a local drink (Poncha, beer, or soft drink), and a coffee.
Are entrance fees to Porto Moniz natural pools included?
No, the natural pools’ entrance fee is not included, so budget accordingly.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, swimwear, a change of clothes, a sun hat, and weather-appropriate clothing.
Is the cable car ride safe?
Yes, but the steepness and weather conditions can affect the operation. The ride lasts about five minutes and is generally considered safe and exhilarating.
Can I do this tour if I have mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or vertigo due to the steep cable car and terrain.
What if the weather is bad?
Activities like the cable car might be canceled or delayed. The guide will inform you of changes and suggest alternatives if possible.
Is this a small-group tour?
Yes, limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience and personalized attention.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel arrangements.
This Madeira tour packs a punch with its combination of adventure, scenery, and authentic local touches. It’s a smart choice for cruise passengers wanting a memorable, well-organized day seeing the best of Madeira’s rugged coast.
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