Madeira : Nun’s Valleys and Pico Areeiro 4X4 Tour

Imagine cruising through winding mountain roads, stopping for breathtaking panoramic views, and learning about Madeira’s unique traditions — all in four hours. That’s exactly what the Nun’s Valleys and Pico Areeiro 4X4 tour offers. This experience combines stunning scenery, local storytelling, and a bit of adventure, making it a popular choice for travelers wanting a compact but immersive taste of the island’s highlights.

What we love most about this tour is the way it balances spectacular viewpoints with cultural insights, all delivered in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. The guides are known for their knowledge and personable style, making the trip feel like a local’s special day out. However, it’s worth noting that the tour is quite active in terms of driving on mountain roads — so if you’re prone to motion sickness, it’s something to consider.

This experience suits those who appreciate scenic drives, want to avoid the hassle of self-driving, and are curious about Madeira’s traditions and natural beauty. Whether you’re short on time but want a well-rounded adventure or prefer a small-group environment, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

• Stunning panoramic views from Pico Areeiro, the island’s third-highest peak, are a major highlight.
• Expert local guides bring Madeira’s stories alive, sharing both history and culture.
• The tour includes a visit to Curral das Freiras, with its dramatic mountain scenery and local history.
• Exploring wickerwork industry in Camacha adds a traditional craftsmanship element.
• The 4-hour duration makes it a convenient half-day trip, perfect for fitting into a busy itinerary.
• Comfortable 4×4 vehicles ensure smooth travel over mountain roads, adding a touch of adventure.

A Scenic Start: Pick-up and Initial Views

Your journey begins with a hotel pick-up in Funchal, where a friendly guide welcomes you aboard a rugged 4×4 vehicle. The compact size of the group keeps the experience intimate and engaging. As you wind out of the city, you’ll quickly realize that Madeira’s landscape is a series of dramatic contrasts — lush green hills, rugged cliffs, and cloud-covered peaks.

The first major stop is Pico dos Barcelos, which offers sweeping views of Funchal, the coastline, and the surrounding mountains. It’s a perfect spot to get your bearings and snap some photos of the city below. Many reviewers, like Lilia, mentioned how this spot was exactly what they needed after a previous hike — a chance to relax and take in scenic vistas.

Curral das Freiras: The Valley of the Nuns

Next, the tour heads to Curral das Freiras — the renowned “Valley of the Nuns.” This secluded spot is surrounded by towering mountains, with steep slopes that make the scenery feel almost otherworldly. Here, you’ll learn about the fascinating local history, including the legend of the nuns who once sought refuge in this hidden valley.

The landscape is striking, with terraced fields and quaint villages that showcase Madeira’s rural charm. Many visitors have appreciated the opportunity to hear about the area’s past and its significance. As one reviewer expressed, having someone to tell you interesting stories about the island makes the experience more meaningful.

Pico Areeiro: Standing on the Third-Highest Peak

The highlight for many is reaching Pico Areeiro, at an impressive 1,818 meters. The 4×4 takes you up the mountain roads, gradually ascending into the clouds. Once at the top, you’re rewarded with 360-degree panoramic views of Madeira’s rugged terrain, deep valleys, and distant coastlines.

Imagine standing high above the clouds, with vistas that stretch endlessly — a view you’ll probably want to linger over. The cool mountain air and vast sky make this a memorable photo opportunity. Reviewers like Melissa praised their guide Val, saying he made the ascent feel safe and special, with his knowledge adding depth to the experience.

Traditional Wickerwork in Camacha

The last stop on the tour is the wicker-producing area of Camacha. This traditional craft is an integral part of Madeira’s culture. You’ll have the chance to see artisans at work and learn about the process behind creating everything from baskets to furniture.

Many travelers, including Jack, enjoyed this part of the trip, noting that the guide’s choice of off-road paths made it feel like a private tour. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the local craftsmanship and perhaps pick up a unique souvenir.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation and Group Size

The tour is conducted in a friendly 4×4 vehicle, ensuring a comfortable ride over Madeira’s uneven mountain roads. The small group or private options mean you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and guides can tailor the experience a bit more personally.

Duration and Starting Times

Clocking in at around 4 hours, the tour is ideal for a half-day adventure. Check the availability for specific starting times, as they vary. The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off in Funchal, making logistics simple. If you stay outside of Funchal, there is an additional fee, which is reasonable given the convenience.

Cost and Value

At $47 per person, this tour offers a great deal considering the variety of sights, cultural insights, and the expert guidance. The price is quite accessible for a half-day adventure with such diverse highlights.

Guides and Language Options

Guides are available in multiple languages — English, Spanish, French, German, and Portuguese. Many reviews highlight the guides’ depth of knowledge and friendly demeanor. For example, Spencer and Val received praise for their engaging storytelling and careful driving.

What to Bring and Consider

Be sure to wear comfortable shoes for walking and bring sunglasses for sunny viewpoints. The mountain roads can be winding, so if you’re prone to motion sickness, it’s wise to take precautions. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems, so check your personal comfort level before booking.

The feedback from past travelers paints a clear picture of what to expect. Many loved the expert guidance and the chance to see Madeira from a different perspective. One guest noted how they appreciated the off-road routes that made the trip feel intimate and special, not just a standard sightseeing bus tour.

Melissa, who booked a second tour with her guide Val, emphasized how safe and knowledgeable he was, making her feel comfortable exploring unfamiliar terrain. Jack enjoyed the fuss-free nature of the experience, feeling like he had a personal guide helping him discover the island’s best viewpoints.

The views from Pico Areeiro are often described as breathtaking, with the sense of standing above the clouds. The visit to Curral das Freiras offers a combination of scenic beauty and intriguing local history, giving the tour depth beyond just photo stops.

The stop in Camacha to see wickerwork artisans was praised as a highlight, offering a genuine glimpse into Madeira’s traditional industries, rather than just tourist traps.

This experience is perfect for photography lovers, culture enthusiasts, and those who enjoy a bit of adventure and scenic drives. It’s also well-suited for travelers short on time but wanting to see multiple highlights in one go.

If you’re someone who values small-group intimacy, knowledgeable guides, and authentic local insights, you’ll find a lot to love here. It’s a fantastic way to get an overview of Madeira’s mountain landscapes without the hassle of self-driving or organizing multiple tours.

Keep in mind, if you prefer a more relaxed, less bumpy ride or are sensitive to altitude and winding roads, this may require some consideration.

This tour offers a beautiful blend of natural scenery and cultural discovery, all wrapped into a manageable four-hour experience. The expert guides bring Madeira’s stories alive, making each stop more meaningful. The stunning views from Pico Areeiro are a highlight that will stay with you long after the trip ends.

Priced reasonably at $47, it delivers excellent value for a half-day adventure filled with photo-worthy vistas, interesting local insights, and a taste of Madeira’s traditional craftsmanship. It’s ideal for travelers who want an authentic, well-organized, and engaging way to explore Madeira’s impressive mountain scenery.

Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or in a small group, this tour is a fantastic choice to see some of the island’s most iconic sights with comfort and expert guidance.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a friendly local guide, pick-up, and drop-off in Funchal city.

Can I join if I stay outside Funchal?
Yes, but an additional fee applies depending on your location, such as 5€ from the cruise dock or nearby towns, and 10€ from further locations like Caniçal or Porto Moniz.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, making it perfect for a half-day outing.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and sunglasses are recommended to enjoy the viewpoints and for walking around.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour is generally suitable for those able to handle mountain roads and walking. Very young children should consider the winding roads and altitude.

Are there language options for guides?
Yes, guides are available in Spanish, English, French, German, and Portuguese.

What about food and drinks?
Food and drinks are not included, so consider bringing water or a snack if you like.

Is the tour accessible to pregnant women or people with back issues?
No, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems due to the nature of mountain driving.

Whether you’re seeking stunning views, cultural insights, or just a break from city life, this Madeira 4×4 tour offers a balanced and memorable way to explore the island’s mountain treasures.