Madeira Best of the West Day Tour

Madeira Best of the West Day Tour: An In-Depth Review

If you’re heading to Madeira and want to see the highlights of the island’s rugged west coast without the hassle of driving yourself, the “Madeira Best of the West Day Tour” offers a compelling option. With a good mix of natural wonders, charming villages, and iconic viewpoints, this tour packs a lot into around eight hours. It’s especially appealing for first-time visitors or those short on time who still want a meaningful taste of Madeira’s dramatic landscapes.

What makes this tour stand out? We love how it combines stunning vistas like Cabo Girao, with visits to authentic fishing villages, and a dip in Porto Moniz’s famous natural pools—all included in one affordable package. It’s a great way to get a rundown without breaking the bank. On the flip side, some travelers note that certain stops can feel a bit lengthy, and you’ll want to be prepared for a full day on the bus. Overall, it’s best suited for those who enjoy scenic drives and easy access to top sights.

This tour has an impressive review score of 4.5 out of 5 from over 600 reviews, with 94% of travelers recommending it. It’s priced at just over $44 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the number of highlights covered. If you’re after a well-rounded, value-for-money experience with knowledgeable guides, this trip could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering major west coast highlights like Cabo Girao, Ribeira Brava, Porto Moniz, and Seixal
• Includes hotel pickup and round-trip transport, making logistics simple
• Perfect for first-time visitors or those on a tight schedule who want to maximize sight-seeing
• Natural pools and scenic viewpoints are among the top highlights
• Knowledgeable guides provide insightful commentary and make the day more engaging
• Some stops may be lengthy, so be prepared for a full day on the bus

Analyzing the Tour Experience in Detail

The Comfort of Organized Transportation and Group Size

One of the biggest advantages of booking this tour is the hotel pickup and drop-off in Funchal, eliminating the stress of navigating public transport or renting a vehicle. Travelers consistently appreciate the comfortable coach or bus used for the journey—according to reviews, the drivers are friendly and informative, often sharing local stories and history, which adds a layer of richness to the experience.

The tour caps at about 55 travelers, creating a small-group vibe that balances the social aspect with enough space to relax and enjoy the scenery. For those who dislike large, crowded tours, this size feels just right, allowing for a more personal experience with the guide.

The Scenic Route and Major Stops

The itinerary is thoughtfully curated to showcase Madeira’s diverse landscapes. You start with the spectacular Cabo Girao, which features a glass observation platform perched at 580 meters (about 1,900 feet). From here, you’ll get an unobstructed view of the sea and cliffs that make Madeira famous.

Next, the tour heads to Ribeira Brava, a lively fishing village famous for its beautiful church of São Bento and seaside charm. It’s a lovely spot to stretch your legs and snap photos.

Crossing the Paul da Serra, the largest plateau on the island, offers a different perspective—vast, open, and often shrouded in mist, giving you a feel for the island’s varied terrain. The drive through the Ribeira da Janela valley features impressive valleys and waterfalls, making it one of the most scenic parts of the journey.

Porto Moniz and Its Natural Pools

The highlight for many is definitely Porto Moniz, famous for its natural volcanic pools. The tour allocates about an hour and a half here, giving you enough time for a meal—though lunch is on your own—and a dip in the cool, mineral-rich waters. Several reviews highly praise Porto Moniz, noting that the natural pools are a “must-see” and that the scenery around them is simply breathtaking.

Some travelers wish for more time here, as one reviewer mentioned, “I wish we had more time there,” but most agree that the stop is well worth it. Be prepared for a bit of a splash and bring your swimsuit if you’re keen to swim.

Seixal and the Véu da Noiva Viewpoint

Further along, the picturesque village of Seixal offers stunning views of waterfalls and cliffs from the Véu da Noiva viewpoint. Travelers love this stop for its dramatic scenery, with one reviewer describing it as “impressive” and appreciating the chance to appreciate Madeira’s natural beauty up close.

The North-West Coast and Laurissilva Forest

Driving along the northwest coast, you’ll see rugged cliffs and lush greenery. The Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a highlight of the island’s natural beauty and is included in the tour through a scenic drive. While you may not get an extensive hike, passing through this verdant landscape adds value for nature lovers.

The Encumeada Viewpoint

Closing the loop on the day, the Encumeada viewpoint offers panoramic views of both the north and south coasts—perfect for photos and a moment to appreciate Madeira’s diverse terrain. According to reviews, guides often stop here for pictures and some quick facts, adding to the overall experience.

What To Expect During the Day

As the tour kicks off at 8:30 am, you’ll want to be ready for a full day of sightseeing. The journey is comfortably paced, with the longest stop at Porto Moniz, and shorter pauses at other viewpoints and villages. The guides are praised for their knowledge and humor, making the drive engaging rather than monotonous.

Lunch is not included, so you may want to bring snacks or plan to enjoy a meal at Porto Moniz’s local restaurants. The tour ends back at your hotel around 5 pm, giving you plenty of time to relax after a day filled with eye-catching vistas.

Highlights from Reviewers

Many travelers highlight the experience of the guides—noting that Luciano was “friendly and professional,” with a good sense of humor and lots of local insights. One reviewer even called the driver “great,” mentioning how informative and passionate he was about Madeira.

The scenery consistently earns praise; reviewers describe the views as “breathtaking,” “spectacular,” and “impressive.” The natural pools at Porto Moniz, in particular, seem to be a crowd favorite, with several noting it as a highlight of their trip.

Potential Drawbacks

Some reviews mention that certain stops can feel overly long—up to 45 minutes—especially if your main interest is in sightseeing rather than shopping or just taking photos. For example, one traveler commented that “the whole trip could have been done in half a day,” implying that a few stops might be a bit excessive for those eager to cover more ground quickly.

Others found the day a bit sedentary, with many hours spent sitting on the bus. If you prefer more active exploration, this might feel limiting, but for most, the stunning views outweigh this minor inconvenience.

How Does It Value Compare?

The price of around $44 per person is quite reasonable given the scope of the tour. It includes all taxes, fees, and hotel pickup, making it a straightforward, hassle-free option. Considering the cost of individual entries to viewpoints or pools and the guided commentary, this tour offers excellent value for money.

The inclusions—professional guides, transportation, and the convenience—mean you’re paying for a curated experience, not just a bus ride. When you factor in the quality of the scenery and the variety of stops, many find this tour to be a great deal.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors to Madeira or travelers who want a rundown of the island’s west coast in one day. It’s perfect if you enjoy scenic drives, natural vistas, and authentic village visits without the hassle of planning logistics yourself.

Those who appreciate comfortable transport and guided commentary will find this especially satisfying. However, if you’re someone who prefers more active adventures or longer hikes, you might find the stops a little too relaxed.

Final Thoughts

The “Madeira Best of the West Day Tour” offers a well-rounded, affordable way to experience the island’s most iconic sights. The combination of breathtaking viewpoints, charming villages, and natural pools really captures the essence of Madeira’s rugged beauty. The guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and friendliness, adding to the overall enjoyment.

While some may find the stops lengthy or prefer more physical activity, most travelers will appreciate the easy-paced, scenic journey. It’s a fantastic choice for those looking to see Madeira’s highlights without the stress of driving or planning.

In short, whether you’re a lover of nature, photography, or simply want a taste of Madeira’s wild coast, this tour delivers on its promise of a memorable, picturesque day. Perfect for a first visit or a quick overview of Madeira’s rugged west.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers free pickup and drop-off for hotels in Funchal, making it very convenient.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 8:30 am and ending around 5 pm.

What’s the cost?
It’s priced at about $44.03 per person, which includes taxes and fees.

Do I need to bring lunch?
Lunch is not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to eat at Porto Moniz’s local restaurants.

Are the stops lengthy?
Some stops, like Porto Moniz, can be up to 1.5 hours, while others are shorter. Reviewers mention that some stops could be a bit long.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s a good family activity. Service animals are allowed too.

What’s the vehicle like?
A comfortable bus or coach is used, with good views and space for everyone.

Are the guides multilingual?
Yes, the tour may be operated by a multilingual guide, offering commentary in multiple languages.

Can I cancel if needed?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Weather cancellations are also covered, with options for rescheduling or refunds.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its combination of natural beauty, charming villages, and expert guides provides excellent value and a relaxed, scenic experience of Madeira’s west coast.