Self-Guided E-Bike Road Tour from Funchal to Garajau

Taking a self-guided e-bike tour around Madeira offers a fantastic way to see the island’s rugged coastlines, lush hills, and charming villages at your own pace. We’ve examined this 3-hour adventure from MADCycle, which promises a blend of scenic beauty, independence, and comfort.

What truly sets this experience apart are three standout features: the independent exploration with GPS guidance, the top-of-the-line Radon Solution Hybrid bikes, and the stunning views at every turn, especially at the Cristo Rei viewpoint. A potential consideration is the relatively limited duration—some might want a longer ride to fully soak in the scenery, but the flexibility and quality equipment compensate well.

This tour suits those who love active outdoor pursuits but prefer a relaxed, guided-free format. It’s ideal for cyclists of all levels comfortable riding an e-bike, looking for a scenic but manageable half-day adventure. If you’re keen on responsible tourism, breathtaking vistas, and a flexible schedule, this experience might just be perfect.

Good To Know

• Independent exploration with GPS ensures you see the sights at your own pace.
• High-quality e-bikes provide effortless climbing, even on steep hills.
• Stunning coastal and mountain views make every pedal worth it.
• Comfortable gear and safety equipment are included, making the ride smooth and secure.
• Short but sweet: ideal for a quick, scenic escape from Funchal.
• Great for active travelers looking for a scenic adventure without the guided tour rigidity.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Why We Love This E-Bike Tour

Imagine cruising along Madeira’s curving coastal roads, with the wind in your hair and panoramic views of the Atlantic. That’s exactly what this e-bike tour offers. We loved how accessible the route was thanks to the assisted pedaling of the Radon bikes, making the climb up to the Cristo Rei viewpoint feel almost effortless.

The fact that this is a self-guided experience is a massive plus. You’re free to stop for photos, take your time to enjoy the views, or explore small side roads without feeling rushed. The Garmin GPS provides clear, turn-by-turn navigation, which means you can concentrate on soaking in the lush scenery rather than worrying about directions.

Another highlight is the attention to safety and comfort. The bikes are described as “like new,” and the helmets are clean and new, which adds to the overall sense of security. Plus, the inclusion of a saddlebag, bike lock, repair kit, and first aid kit means you’re well-equipped for a worry-free ride.

Lastly, the stop at the Cristo Rei viewpoint offers one of those postcard-perfect moments. It’s a prime spot for photos and a breath of fresh air, rounding out the experience beautifully.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting Point: Teleférico-Término

The journey begins in Funchal at the Teleférico-Término, a central location easy to reach. Here, you’ll meet your guide, who will give you a briefing on safety, bike operation, and the route. Despite being described as a “self-guided” tour, the presence of a guide during the briefing ensures you’re comfortable before heading out alone.

Riding Towards Garajau

After the safety talk, you’ll set off at around 9 am, pedaling through Funchal’s outskirts and into the scenic landscapes beyond. The route is designed to optimize the beautiful coastal views, with the Garmin GPS guiding your path.

The total elevation gain of 423 meters means you’ll encounter some climbs, but with assisted pedaling, these are very manageable—no need to be a pro cyclist. As you ride, expect to pass lush greenery, charming villages, and sweeping views of the Atlantic.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Stop at Ponta do Garajau

Your first noteworthy stop is at Ponta do Garajau, a well-known viewpoint area. Here, you can take photos, breathe in the sea air, and enjoy a moment of tranquility. If you wish, there might be time for a quick coffee or snack—perfect for recharging before the final stretch.

Cristo Rei Viewpoint

The highlight of the route is the Cristo Rei viewpoint. This spot offers sweeping views of the coastline and is perfect for snapping memorable photos. It’s a great place to appreciate Madeira’s natural beauty and capture the moment.

Return Journey

After soaking in the views, you’ll turn back towards Funchal, retracing your route with the GPS’s help. The ride back generally feels less strenuous, as you’ll be riding downhill for parts of the route, making the overall experience balanced and enjoyable.

End of Tour

The tour concludes back at the starting point around 1 pm, giving you plenty of time afterward to explore Funchal or relax.

Equipment & Inclusions: What’s Included

The package offers great value, especially considering the quality gear provided:

• Garmin GPS system with the chosen route, ensuring smooth navigation
• Radon Solution Hybrid 8.0 CX 500 e-bike, a hybrid model praised for its smoothness and battery life
• Helmet and visibility vest, emphasizing safety
• Saddlebag, bike lock, repair kit, and first aid kit, making for a worry-free ride
• Insurance included for peace of mind

All equipment is designed to make your ride as comfortable and safe as possible. The GPS guiding system means you can enjoy the scenery without constantly checking your map, ideal for travelers who want independence.

What to Bring

The tour recommends comfortable clothes and sports shoes, suitable for a few hours of moderate activity. You might also want to bring water, though it’s not included, to stay hydrated during the ride.

What’s Not Included

You’ll need to bring your own gloves, cycling clothes, and water for extra comfort. The tour does not include clip-on pedals, so be sure your shoes are compatible or comfortable for riding as is.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This e-bike tour appeals most to active travelers who enjoy scenic rides but prefer a relaxed, self-guided experience. It’s perfect if you want to explore at your own pace without a guide constantly by your side.

If you’re comfortable riding an e-bike and are looking for a half-day adventure that combines stunning views with a bit of exercise, this tour fits the bill. It’s also great for those who appreciate responsible tourism, as the tour emphasizes eco-friendly exploration of Madeira’s natural beauty.

It’s not suitable for children under 13, or those with mobility issues, recent surgeries, or low fitness levels. The pace and route are designed for people who can manage moderate riding, and the maximum weight limit is 120 kg (264 lbs).

The Experience From Real Travelers

One reviewer mentioned, “We were met by Oscar who bought a selection of bike sizes to make sure we had the right ones,” highlighting the personalized service. They also noted that “the bikes were like new and so smooth,” and praised the phenomenal battery life that made uphill climbs effortless.

Another traveler simply said, “Very well received,” which suggests the overall experience is friendly and well-organized. The reviews underscore that the guides and staff are attentive and knowledgeable, even if the tour is primarily self-guided.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely. For travelers who enjoy independent exploration combined with stunning scenery, this e-bike tour ticks all the boxes. The quality of the bikes, GPS navigation, and the breathtaking stops make it a highly valuable experience.

The flexibility to ride at your own pace and the worry-free equipment make it suitable for a broad range of fitness levels, provided you’re comfortable on a bike. The compact three-hour format is perfect for fitting into a busy Madeira itinerary without feeling rushed.

If you’re after a scenic, active adventure that captures the essence of Madeira’s coast and countryside without the constraints of a guided tour, this experience makes a compelling choice—especially for those who love the freedom of exploring at their own rhythm.

FAQ

Is this a guided tour? No, it’s a self-guided experience. You’ll receive GPS navigation and a briefing, but you’ll explore independently.

How long does the tour last? The ride itself takes about 3 hours, from start to finish, with most of the scenic stops included.

What equipment is provided? You get a hybrid e-bike, helmet, saddlebag, bike lock, GPS, visibility vest, repair kit, and first aid kit.

Is this suitable for beginners? It’s suitable for anyone comfortable on a bike, especially with the assist mode, but not recommended for those with low fitness levels or mobility issues.

Can I cancel my booking? Yes, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the activity.

What should I bring? Comfortable clothes, sports shoes, water, and any personal items you want to carry.

Are children under 13 allowed? No, this tour is not suitable for children under 13 years old.

Do I need to book in advance? Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot, especially since groups are limited to 6 participants, and you can pay later to keep your plans flexible.

This self-guided e-bike tour from Funchal to Garajau offers a fantastic way to enjoy Madeira’s stunning scenery at your own pace with the comfort of quality gear and GPS assistance. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, it’s an activity that promises memorable views and a sense of freedom you won’t forget.

You can check if your dates are available here: