Madeira: Sunny South Side – Cabo Girão, Waterfalls, C. Lobos

Introduction

This guided tour of Madeira’s sunny south side promises a full day of breathtaking views, charming villages, and local flavor. Priced at just $74 per person, it’s an excellent way to see some of the island’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning. With 8 hours of exploration, a small group atmosphere, and a knowledgeable guide, it’s designed for travelers who want authentic experiences and a relaxed pace.

One of the standout features of this tour is the expert guidance—from a local driver who shares insights about Madeira’s landscapes and culture. Plus, the tour includes entrance to Cabo Girao’s famous skywalk and some tasty local drinks. However, keep in mind that the itinerary depends on weather conditions, which can sometimes lead to last-minute adjustments. This tour suits those eager to soak up Madeira’s sunshine, explore coastal villages, and enjoy some relaxed sightseeing.

Key Points

• Stunning viewpoints like Miradouro São Sebastião and Cabo Girao’s skywalk offer dizzying heights and spectacular vistas.
• The small group size enhances the experience, making it more personal and flexible.
• The itinerary includes authentic local stops such as Câmara de Lobos, famed for Poncha, Madeira’s signature drink.
• The tour balances scenic drives, cultural stops, and leisure time, offering great value for money.
• Knowledgeable guides make the experience richer, sharing insights about Madeira’s landscape, history, and local life.
• The experience is ideal for sun lovers and those wanting a comprehensive day trip with minimal hassle.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Morning Coffee

The tour kicks off in Funchal with a choice of four convenient pickup locations, including hotels and popular landmarks like the Cable Car station. We love how flexible the start options are, making it easier to fit into your travel plans. Our first stop is a quick coffee break—a chance to fuel up with a “bica” (espresso) or “garoto” (small milk coffee). As one reviewer noted, the coffee at this initial stop is “very good” and included in the tour price, setting a welcoming tone.

Ribeira Brava and Miradouro São Sebastião

Next, the journey takes us towards Ribeira Brava, where a scenic viewpoint offers sweeping views of the Atlantic and the sea bay. It’s a perfect spot for photos and taking in the peaceful coastal scenery. The guide shares interesting facts about the area, making the experience educational as well as visual.

Ponta do Sol: The Warmest Spot on Madeira

Stop two is Ponta do Sol, often called the warmest place on the island. This colorful village is a highlight—so much so that visitors often comment on its “summer vibes” and lively atmosphere. You’ll have around 30 minutes here to stroll through the narrow streets, admire the brightly painted houses, and perhaps sample some craft beer from local breweries. The relaxed pace means you won’t feel rushed, giving ample time to soak in the vibe.

Calheta Beach for Lunch and Leisure

Lunchtime is at Calheta Beach—a lovely stretch of sand where you can either enjoy a meal at a seaside restaurant or simply relax on the sand and take a dip. This stop is especially valued for its scenic setting and the chance to unwind amid Madeira’s coastal beauty. The 1.5-hour break allows for a proper rest, making the day’s journey feel balanced between sightseeing and leisure.

Cabo Girao Skywalk: The Daring Heights

The highlight for many visitors is the Cabo Girao Skywalk, at 580 meters—the highest sea cliff in Europe. The glass platform juts out from the cliff’s edge, offering unmatched panoramic views. If you’re comfortable with heights, you’ll love the thrill of standing on transparent flooring overlooking the ocean. As one review beautifully puts it, “Keep cameras ready (and tight)!” The guide provides plenty of insight into this remarkable geological feature, enhancing the awe factor.

Câmara de Lobos: The Birthplace of Poncha

The tour winds down in Câmara de Lobos, a fishing village famed for its Poncha, a traditional local spirit made from sugar cane, citrus, and honey. You’ll have around an hour here to explore, with the chance to sample Poncha at a local bar—something visitors consistently highlight as a fun, authentic experience. As one reviewer notes, the guide’s knowledge about Madeira and its customs added depth to this stop.

Return and Drop-off

After a leisurely visit, the tour returns to Funchal, with a quick 15-minute transfer back to your starting point or hotel. The drop-off options are flexible, making it easy to plan other activities in the city afterward.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Expert Guidance and Small Group Atmosphere

The knowledgeable guides, like Richard, are praised for their friendliness and depth of local knowledge. They’re attentive, careful drivers, and eager to answer questions—adding value beyond just sightseeing. With a limited group size of 8, you’ll enjoy a more intimate experience, avoiding the crowds of larger tours.

Breathtaking Views and Unique Experiences

From the dizzying heights of Cabo Girao’s skywalk to the tranquil charm of villages like Ponta do Sol and Câmara de Lobos, the tour offers a well-rounded view of Madeira’s diverse landscape. Reviewers speak highly of the “beautiful stops” and the “scenic drives” that make the journey special.

Authentic Local Flavor

Sampling Poncha and visiting local villages gives you genuine insights into Madeira’s culture. Câmara de Lobos especially stands out as a place where you can enjoy traditional drinks in a relaxed setting, adding an authentic touch to your trip.

Good Value for Money

With entrance fees included, plus a local drink, coffee, and water, the $74 price is reasonable considering the variety of experiences packed into one day. The included drinks and the small-group setup mean you get more personal attention and culture without extra costs.

Considerations and Practical Tips

While the tour covers many highlights, weather can influence the experience. Madeira’s climate is subtropical and unpredictable, meaning some viewpoints or activities might be affected. Guides are flexible and will suggest alternatives if needed—so a sense of adventure is helpful.

Comfortable shoes are recommended since there are several stops that involve walking on uneven terrain or exploring villages. Also, bring sun protection—hat, sunscreen, sunglasses—as much of the day is outdoors and in the sunshine.

This tour isn’t suited for children under 12, those with mobility issues, or wheelchair users, mainly because of walking distances and uneven paths.

Final Thoughts

This Madeira sunny south tour offers an engaging blend of stunning scenery, local culture, and relaxed sightseeing. It’s especially suited for travelers wanting a comprehensive look at Madeira’s coastal charm in a small-group setting, guided by experts who know their stuff.

You’ll leave with plenty of photos, local stories, and memorable moments—and best of all, it’s an affordable way to see some of Madeira’s most iconic sights. Whether it’s the thrill of the skywalk, the laid-back charm of Câmara de Lobos, or the sun-drenched streets of Ponta do Sol, this tour captures the essence of Madeira’s sunny south.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation from designated meeting points in Funchal, Lido, and Caniço is included, along with a driver/guide.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts around 8 hours, with a pick-up and drop-off included.

What is the price per person?
It’s priced at $74 per person, which covers the guide, transport, entrance fee to Cabo Girao’s skywalk, one small bottle of water, a local drink, and coffee.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but there is a scheduled stop at Calheta Beach where you can enjoy local cuisine or relax on the sand.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 12, primarily due to walking distances and activity levels involved.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), warm clothing for cooler spots, and outdoor gear are recommended.

Can the itinerary change due to weather?
Yes, Madeira’s weather can be unpredictable, and certain viewpoints or activities might be adjusted for safety. Guides will inform you of any changes and suggest alternatives.

In essence, this tour is a fantastic choice for those wanting to soak up Madeira’s breathtaking views, authentic local flavor, and enjoy a relaxed, guided day on the island’s sunniest side. If you’re after a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and comfort, it’s a journey that delivers—capturing the spirit of Madeira beautifully.