Private Vespa West Tour-Seixal,São Vicente,Porto Moniz(4hr)

If you’re after a truly memorable way to see Madeira, a private Vespa tour covering Seixal, São Vicente, and Porto Moniz promises an exhilarating blend of scenic vistas, seaside charm, and volcanic wonders. This experience isn’t just about transportation—it’s about feeling the wind in your hair, soaking up breathtaking views, and truly connecting with the island’s raw beauty.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the freedom of riding a Vespa through diverse landscapes—from lush valleys to dramatic cliffs. Second, the chance to stop at iconic spots like the natural lava pools of Porto Moniz and Seixal’s black sand beach. Third, the private guide ensures a tailored experience, packed with insights and local tips.

A potential consideration? The requirement for a valid driver’s license and prior scooter experience means this isn’t for complete beginners. Also, the tour doesn’t include meals, drinks, or entrance fees to pools, so some planning is needed to turn this into a full-day adventure if desired.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love scenic drives, enjoy a bit of adventure, and crave authentic Madeiran landscapes. If you’re comfortable on a scooter and seek a flexible, personalized way to explore, this ride could be a highlight of your trip.

Good To Know

• Scenic Views & Unique Landscapes: Ride through mountain passes, coastal cliffs, and volcanic pools.
• Private Guided Experience: An intimate way to explore with personalized insights.
• Includes Essential Gear: Helmets, jackets, gloves, and insurance are all covered.
• Flexible & Convenient: Four-hour duration with multiple stops for photos and breaks.
• Not for Beginners: Scooter experience and a driver’s license are mandatory.
• Focus on Authenticity: Experience real Madeiran scenery away from tourist crowds.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Madeira Vespa Tour

What to Expect and Why It Matters

This is a four-hour adventure designed to pack in a variety of spectacular sights while letting you enjoy the journey at your own pace. It’s ideal for those who want to see Madeira’s wild side—think rugged coastlines, volcanic pools, and lush valleys—without the constraints of large tour groups or crowded buses.

The tour starts at the Vespa Madeira Head Office in Funchal, a central location easy to reach for most visitors. Once you’re suited up with a helmet, gloves, and a jacket, your guide takes you for a brief 25-minute ride through Funchal, giving a sense of the local vibe before heading into the countryside.

The Route and Its Highlights

Serra de Água and Encumeada Pass

We loved the way the journey begins in the quiet charm of Serra de Água, where terraced hills and rustic farms give a glimpse of traditional Madeiran life. The road then climbs into the highlands, and the highlight is the Encumeada Pass at over 1,000 meters. From here, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of both the north and south coasts—an impressive sight that makes the early climb worthwhile.

Reviewers mentioned that “the panoramic views at Encumeada are truly breathtaking,” and it’s easy to see why. Standing at this vantage point, you get a sense of Madeira’s volcanic origins and the lush diversity on each side.

São Vicente: A Lush Valley

Descending into São Vicente, you’ll notice it’s a postcard-perfect village, with its mountain backdrop and Atlantic breezes. The ride along the coastal road from São Vicente to Seixal is described as unforgettable—carved into steep cliffs with the ocean roaring below, offering plenty of chances for spectacular photos.

Participants noted that “the ride along the coast is exhilarating, especially with the ocean crashing beneath us,” making it clear that this stretch is a highlight. São Vicente itself is charming and offers a moment to breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the scenic surroundings.

Seixal: Black Sand & Natural Pools

Stopping in Seixal is a relaxing interlude. Here, you can take a quick walk along the black sand beach, renowned for its volcanic origin, or dip into the natural lava pools. These pools are a favorite feature, often described as serene and photogenic, framed by volcanic rock formations.

One reviewer gushed that “the natural pools at Seixal are simply stunning,” and many appreciated the opportunity to cool off in such an iconic setting. It’s a perfect spot for a quick swim or just some quiet time soaking up the scenery.

Porto Moniz: Lava Pools & Final Stop

The tour culminates in Porto Moniz, famous for its massive volcanic lava pools—some naturally formed, others artificially enhanced—offering a unique swimming experience. Here, you can relax, take photos, and reflect on a ride that’s been more than just transportation.

Participants describe Porto Moniz as a “must-see” destination, with the pools offering both fun and tranquility. The 30-minute stop lets you unwind, take in the views, and maybe even enjoy a snack before heading back.

The Ride Itself: Comfort and Practicalities

Each scooter is a Vespa Primavara 125cc or GTS Super Sport 125cc, ensuring a smooth and stylish ride. The inclusion of helmets, jackets, gloves, and insurance means you can focus on the scenery and fun, rather than logistics. The top case and phone holder also make it easy to keep essentials handy during the journey.

The route is carefully planned to balance riding time with sightseeing stops, making the experience accessible without feeling rushed. The 10-15 minute scooter rides between stops are manageable, even for those with moderate riding experience.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour is packed with stops, each designed to maximize scenic and photo opportunities. Starting in Funchal, you’ll get a quick taste of the city before heading into the mountains. Several sightseeing and photo stops along the way allow for capturing the lush landscape.

The route includes:

• Serra de Água: A mountain village with traditional charm.
• Encumeada Pass: Panoramic views.
• São Vicente: Coastal views and village charm.
• Seixal: Black sand beach and natural pools.
• Porto Moniz: Lava pools and ocean vistas.
• Multiple scooter rides connecting these points, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery without feeling hurried.

Authenticity and Local Insights

Having spoken with guides and reviews, it’s clear that the guides are knowledgeable and passionate about Madeira. They often share local stories, recommend nearby eateries, and provide tips for enjoying each location at your leisure.

Guests have noted that the experience isn’t just about the sights—it’s about feeling connected to the land and the sea. Riding a Vespa offers a sense of freedom that large bus tours can’t match, and the private aspect means your guide can tailor the experience if needed.

Practical Considerations and Value

While the tour is priced to include a private guide, Vespa, helmets, and safety gear, it does exclude meals, drinks, and entrance fees to pools. For travelers who enjoy active exploration and have some scooter experience, this is a fantastic way to see Madeira’s highlights efficiently.

The four-hour window strikes a good balance—enough time to cover a lot but not so long that fatigue sets in. Plus, the flexibility of a private guide means you might get extra insights or photo stops tailored to your interests.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

• Adventure-seekers comfortable on a scooter
• Travelers craving authentic, scenic environments
• Those who want a personalized, flexible experience
• Visitors interested in photographic opportunities
• People looking to explore Madeira beyond the usual tourist spots

This tour isn’t ideal if you’re unfamiliar with riding scooters or if you’re traveling with very young children or pregnant women. But for those with the right experience, it offers a dynamic and unforgettable way to explore the island’s dramatic scenery.

The Sum Up

This private Vespa tour offers a lively, engaging way to see Madeira’s diverse landscapes. Riding along mountain passes, coastal cliffs, and volcanic pools gives you a sense of the island’s rugged beauty that larger tours sometimes miss. The combination of scenic vistas, the thrill of riding a Vespa, and the chance to stop at iconic sites makes it a memorable experience for active travelers.

If you’re comfortable on a scooter and want a flexible, private journey through Madeira’s most striking locations, this tour delivers both stunning views and genuine adventure. It’s a fantastic choice for those seeking a day filled with scenery, fresh air, and a touch of adrenaline—an authentic way to experience Madeira’s wild, volcanic soul.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need prior experience to join this tour?
Yes, scooter driving experience is mandatory, and a valid driver’s license is required. The tour involves riding a Vespa, so some comfort with handling a scooter is necessary.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a private guide, Vespa scooter (Primavara 125cc or GTS Super Sport 125cc), helmets, fuel, insurance, jackets, gloves, a top case, and a phone holder.

Are there any age restrictions?
Participants must be at least 12 years old. The scooter experience requirement means it’s not suitable for complete beginners or children under 12.

Can I bring my own camera or phone?
Absolutely. The tour provides a phone holder, making it easy to capture photos during stops and rides.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the activity starts and ends at the Vespa Madeira Head Office in Funchal. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to this location.

How long is each riding segment?
The scooter rides between stops typically last 10-15 minutes, manageable even for those with moderate experience.

Can I customize the stops or route?
Since it’s a private tour, the guide can tailor some aspects of the experience to your interests, within the route framework.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for riding, plus a camera, are recommended. The tour provides jackets for warmth if needed.

This Madeira Vespa adventure combines scenic beauty, a dash of adrenaline, and the luxury of a private guide—perfect for travelers eager to see the island in a truly unique way.

You can check if your dates are available here: