Madeira Island: 3-Hour Old Road Tour by Sidecar

If you’re looking for a way to see Madeira that’s both exhilarating and a little different from the usual tour bus, this 3-hour Old Road Sidecar Tour might just be what you need. Put on your helmet, sit back (or lean into the wind), and cruise along some of the island’s most scenic, historic, and less-traveled routes. Led by knowledgeable guides and offering a genuine sense of adventure, this experience blends stunning views with insider stories — all from the comfort of a vintage sidecar.

What we genuinely love about this tour is how personal and flexible it feels. It’s not just a cookie-cutter ride; it’s a chance to see Madeira from a perspective that many visitors miss, all while feeling the thrill of open-air motoring. The only thing to keep in mind is that it’s a shorter, 3-hour outing — so if you’re craving a full-day adventure, you might want to consider other options. But for those who want a taste of Madeira’s beauty with a dash of adrenaline, this tour hits the mark.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love scenic drives, authentic experiences, and don’t mind a bit of wind in their hair. It’s also perfect for those who appreciate a knowledgeable guide and a personal touch, thanks to the private group setting and the ability to customize stops or routes.

Key Points

• Unique Experience: Riding in a vintage sidecar offers an intimate and exciting perspective of Madeira’s landscapes.
• Flexibility: You can request route modifications or stops for photos, making the trip more personalized.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Tino and Filipe are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and safety-conscious driving.
• Stunning Views: The tour covers scenic spots from Camara de Lobos to Cabo Girão, vineyards, banana plantations, and Ribeira Brava.
• Value for Money: For $169, you get a private experience with communication systems, insurance, and transfers included.
• Authentic Insights: Guides share stories and facts that bring the island’s culture and history to life, adding depth to the experience.

A Deep Dive into the 3-Hour Sidecar Tour

What to Expect from the Experience

This is not your standard sightseeing tour. Instead, it’s a personalized ride through some of Madeira’s most picturesque areas, all from the unique vantage point of a motorcycle sidecar. You’ll be picked up in Funchal, the lively capital, and then taken on a route that explores both historic roads and hidden lanes that most travelers don’t get to see.

The experience lasts roughly three hours, during which you’ll visit notable sites like Cabo Girão, known for its dramatic cliffs and glass skywalk, as well as Camara de Lobos, a charming fishing village that inspired Churchill’s watercolor paintings. You’ll also drive past banana plantations and vineyards, giving you a taste of Madeira’s agricultural richness and local flavor.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at Funchal: You’ll be greeted at a pre-arranged meeting point where your driver and sidecar will be ready. From here, the adventure begins with a winding ride out of the city, offering immediate views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Camara de Lobos: This picturesque fishing village is one of Madeira’s highlights. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for a quick photo and to soak in the traditional charm. The guides often share stories about the village’s history and its connection to Winston Churchill, who visited often.

Cabo Girão: The tour’s pièce de résistance. Known for its spectacular cliffs and the Cabo Girão Skywalk, this is a must-see for postcard-perfect views. Riders and passengers alike will appreciate the chance to stop here for photos or just to take in the dramatic scenery.

Banana Plantations & Vineyards: As you pass through lush landscapes, guides share interesting tidbits about Madeira’s famous crops. For wine lovers, the route offers a glimpse into the island’s longstanding tradition of wine production, with some stops allowing for local tastings if desired.

Ribeira Brava: The tour ends in this charming coastal town. It’s a great spot for a quick walk, a photo, or simply to reflect on the trip before returning to Funchal.

Authenticity and Personalization

A definite highlight from reviews is the personalized approach. Guides like Tino and Filipe are praised for their enthusiasm, local knowledge, and friendly manner. Whether you request more stops, specific sights, or just a relaxed cruise, guides seem eager to tailor the experience.

Reviewers mention how guides shared stories about Madeira’s culture, history, and everyday life, adding layers of meaning beyond just sightseeing. One reviewer highlighted how Filipe even took the chance to introduce them to locals and sample fresh Pancha, a Madeira specialty.

Safety and Comfort

Safety is clearly a priority. All drivers are certified, and passengers are covered by insurance up to 50,000 EUR. Helmets are mandatory, and communication devices in the helmets ensure clear conversations with your guide throughout the ride.

Despite the adventurous vibe, reviewers consistently mention feeling safe and well cared for. The average speed is modest — around 25 mph — so it’s a relaxed ride, not a thrill-seeking race. Nuno and Filipe are known for their attentive driving, making sure everyone feels comfortable, whether they’re in the sidecar or riding pillion.

The Value Proposition

At $169 for up to 2 people, this tour offers a lot of value. It includes gas, helmets, communication systems, insurance, and transfers, which simplifies logistics and keeps the experience hassle-free. Compared to other guided tours, the private, flexible nature makes it feel exclusive and personal.

Considering the reviews, many find it an extremely worthwhile experience, especially given the quality of guides and the stunning scenery. Several mention how it’s a highlight of their Madeira trip, with one reviewer noting they felt like movie stars being photographed in the sidecar.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a fan of scenic drives and authentic local experiences, this is a great match. It’s perfect for adventurous couples or friends who want something memorable and different, but still comfortable and easy to enjoy. It’s also suitable for those aged 7 and above and those with a maximum weight of 128kg (280 lbs). If you have mobility issues or prefer a more stationary sightseeing experience, this might not be ideal.

Final Thoughts: Is it Worth It?

Absolutely. This sidecar tour offers a blend of scenic beauty, local insights, and a sense of adventure that’s hard to beat. It’s especially valuable for travelers who want to see Madeira in a personalized, relaxed, and fun way—with plenty of opportunities to stop for photos and stories.

The guides receive glowing reviews for their friendliness, knowledge, and professionalism, making the experience feel both safe and special. While it’s a shorter tour, many reviewers say it’s long enough to see a diverse range of sights without feeling rushed.

In terms of value, the price is reasonable for a private, guided experience that includes all essentials like helmets and insurance. If you’re into photography, nature, and local culture, this tour hits all those notes.

Overall, this is a fantastic choice for curious explorers, couples, or small groups who want a memorable, scenic, and authentic way to discover Madeira’s hidden gems and breathtaking vistas.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 3 hours, giving just enough time to see key sights comfortably without feeling rushed.

Is the tour suitable for children or teenagers?
Yes, the tour is available for all those aged 7 and above, making it family-friendly depending on comfort with speed and outdoor riding.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the motorcycle and driver, helmets, communication systems, gas, insurance, and transfers to and from your hotel or meeting point.

Can I make stops during the tour?
Absolutely. Reviewers mention how guides are happy to pause for photos or additional sightseeing, making it flexible.

Is it safe?
Yes. All drivers are certified, helmets are mandatory, and communication systems keep everyone connected. The average speed is modest, focused on sightseeing and comfort.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably; it can get breezy on the open sidecar, especially in the mountains, so consider bringing a light jacket or layers.

Can I customize the route or request specific sights?
Yes, the guides are known for their flexibility and are happy to accommodate route requests or additional stops.

In summary, the Madeira Old Road Sidecar Tour is a memorable way to see the island’s highlights with a personal touch, expert guides, and a dash of adventure. Perfect for those who want to combine scenic beauty with local stories, all while enjoying an authentic, fun experience that’s both safe and relaxed.