Madeira: Cabo Girão, Wine Tasting, & Serra d’Água Jeep Tour

Planning a visit to Madeira? If you’re looking for a balance of spectacular views, authentic local experiences, and a little adventure, this tour offers a fantastic way to get a true taste of the island. We haven’t personally taken it, but based on extensive reviews and detailed descriptions, it seems like a well-rounded trip packed with memorable moments.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the panoramic vistas from Cabo Girão skywalk are truly mesmerizing, offering breathtaking photo opportunities. Second, the off-road drive through Serra d’Água’s lush terrain promises excitement and close-up encounters with Madeira’s natural beauty. And third, the guided wine tasting in São Vicente not only delights your palate but also deepens your appreciation for Madeira’s renowned viticulture.

One thing to consider is that the tour runs for around 4 hours, making it a relatively short but packed experience. If you’re after a relaxing, leisurely day, you might find it a bit brisk. This tour appeals most to those who crave a mix of scenic viewpoints, off-the-beaten-path exploration, and culture, especially if you’ve got an adventurous spirit and an interest in local wines.

Good To Know

• Spectacular Views: The Cabo Girão skywalk offers some of the best panoramic vistas Madeira has to offer.
• Adventure-Driven: The off-road Jeep ride provides a fun, exhilarating way to see the island’s lesser-visited areas.
• Authentic Taste: The wine tasting at São Vicente introduces you to Madeira’s famous wines, paired with local cheeses and chorizo.
• Small Group Feel: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.
• Expert Guides: Reviews highlight guides like Daniel and Rui as knowledgeable, humorous, and attentive to guest needs.
• Great Value: For $85, you get a mix of sightseeing, adventure, and tasting — a well-priced way to see diverse facets of Madeira.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Convenience

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Funchal, which simplifies your planning — no need to worry about navigating or parking. Pickup and drop-off are included in the central Funchal area and Funchal Port, with small additional fees for other locations. This setup ensures a hassle-free start to your adventure.

Cabo Girão Skywalk — A View to Remember

Your first stop is the Cabo Girão skywalk, one of the highest sea cliffs in the world at 580 meters. Standing on the glass platform, you’ll get sweeping views over the Atlantic and the rugged coastline. Most reviews mention free time here for photos and sightseeing, giving you freedom to soak in the scenery and snap that perfect shot. It’s an experience that’s both thrilling and humbling — a snapshot of Madeira’s dramatic landscape.

Serra d’Água Scenic Drive and Off-Road Adventure

Next, the tour takes you through Serra d’Água, a lush valley with traditional terraced fields and stunning vistas. The highlight for many is the off-road Jeep ride, which navigates the rugged terrain and narrow mountain roads. Reviewers like Chris and Natalie describe the drive through backroads and forest trails as exciting and full of surprises, with skilled drivers like Romero handling steep hills and tricky turns with ease.

This part of the trip is not just about the views but also the sense of adventure. Many guests appreciate the opportunity to see Madeira’s natural beauty up close, away from typical tourist spots. The Laurissilva forest scenery feels like stepping into a postcard, and the off-road experience adds an element of fun that keeps the trip lively.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Vineyard Visit and Wine Tasting

From the mountains and forests, the journey heads to São Vicente, in the heart of Madeira’s wine region. The visit to Quinta do Barbusano Winery offers a guided tour of the vineyards — the largest in Madeira — where you’ll learn about the island’s wine production and history. The vineyard is described as stunning and well-maintained, creating an ideal backdrop for tasting.

The wine tasting itself features a selection of one rosé, three whites, and two reds, complemented by Portuguese cheese and chorizo. Reviewers like Gina and Daniel mention the knowledgeable guides and generous pours. Some note that the service can be slow during the tasting, but this seems to be a minor issue compared to the overall experience.

Guests report they particularly enjoyed the variety of wines, with many remarking that they gained a deeper appreciation for Madeira’s wine heritage. For wine lovers, this part of the tour offers both education and enjoyment, with enough time to savor the flavors and ask questions.

Wrap-up and Return

After the wine tasting, the tour concludes with a return to Funchal, often with final photos or snacks. The entire experience is designed to be compact but fulfilling, leaving guests with a variety of impressions — from breathtaking vistas to lush landscapes and delicious wines.

Why It’s a Great Choice

This tour’s balance of scenic highlights, adventure, and cultural insights makes it appealing to a broad range of travelers. The small group size ensures an intimate atmosphere, allowing guides like Daniel, Rui, and Gill to share their extensive knowledge and personal tips. The mix of on-road, off-road, and tasting activities keeps the day lively and engaging.

What We Love About It

• The views from Cabo Girao are truly awe-inspiring, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the atmosphere.
• The off-road Jeep ride provides a sense of adventure that feels authentic and exciting, with the driver skillfully navigating Madeira’s rugged terrain.
• The wine tasting in São Vicente is both educational and delicious, giving you a taste of Madeira’s world-famous wines in a beautiful setting.
• The small group size lends itself to a more personalized experience and ample opportunity for questions and conversation.

Possible Drawbacks

While most guests find the tour to be excellent value, some mention that the total time at the winery can feel a bit rushed and that the price might seem steep for just a few glasses of wine. Also, the tour duration is around 4 hours, which is perfect for a half-day but might feel a bit quick if you want a more relaxed pace.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you seek a dynamic, scenic, and interactive way to explore Madeira, this tour fits the bill. It’s perfect for adventure lovers and wine enthusiasts, especially those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and small-group settings. It’s also ideal if you want a compact experience that hits overviews of the island’s natural beauty, culture, and gastronomy in a single half-day outing.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included in Funchal’s central area and the port. Extra fees apply for locations outside these areas.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, offering a well-paced exploration of key sights and tasting.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking and the off-road Jeep ride. It’s also good to have a camera and some cash for souvenirs or purchases.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 3 years, and pregnant women or wheelchair users might find it less accessible.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers hotel pickup/drop-off, a guide, insurance, safety instructions, local taxes, and Wi-Fi. Entrance to Cabo Girao costs extra.

Are there food options during the tour?
Food isn’t included, but guests often enjoy the wine and cheese tasting at the vineyard.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour conducted in English?
Yes, the guide speaks English and provides commentary throughout.

What if I don’t want to participate in the wine tasting?
The wine tasting is part of the experience, but you can opt to skip or simply enjoy the vineyard views.

Will I see the Laurissilva forest?
While the tour focuses on Serra d’Água and the off-road drive, the lush scenery and forest-like environment are a highlight of the route.

Final Thoughts

This Madeira tour offers an engaging mix of breathtaking viewpoints, off-road adventure, and authentic wine tasting. For those craving a half-day packed with variety and local flavor, it delivers excellent value and memorable moments.

It’s especially suited for adventure-seekers, wine lovers, and curious travelers eager to see Madeira beyond the usual sights. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge, combined with the stunning scenery, make it one of the most recommended experiences on the island.

If you want a taste of Madeira’s natural beauty, culture, and thrill all in one go, this tour is well worth considering.

You can check if your dates are available here: