Curral das Freiras e Monte

Exploring Curral das Freiras e Monte: A Detailed Review of this Madeira Adventure

This private tour in Madeira offers a well-rounded experience of some of the island’s most scenic and culturally rich spots, including Pico dos Barcelos, Eira do Serrado, Curral das Freiras, and Monte. Priced at around $119.35 for a group of up to four, it’s a fantastic choice for visitors who want a personalized, flexible way to explore Madeira’s mountain vistas and picturesque villages. The tour runs for approximately 3 to 4 hours, making it an ideal half-day outing that combines stunning viewpoints, charming villages, and cultural highlights.

One thing we particularly appreciate is how this tour offers private transportation—meaning you won’t be part of a large bus crowd—and that WiFi is included on board, perfect for sharing photos or catching up on calls. The customizable itinerary, led by knowledgeable guides, brings the scenery and stories to life, making it feel more like visiting friends than a traditional tour. However, it’s important to note that the tour does not include lunch, so plan accordingly if you’re hungry after your sightseeing.

Ultimately, this tour is best suited for those who enjoy flexible, intimate experiences with an emphasis on scenic viewpoints and local culture. It’s especially appealing if you want to avoid large group tours and prefer a more tailored day out. If you’re after a relaxing, scenic adventure that covers some of Madeira’s iconic spots, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Private and Flexible: Personalized experience with private transport and only your group participating.
• Stunning Views: Multiple viewpoints offering breathtaking vistas of Funchal, mountains, and Curral das Freiras.
• Cultural Charm: Visits to the village of Curral das Freiras and the Church of Nossa Senhora do Monte.
• Comfort and Convenience: Air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi onboard, making the journey comfortable and connected.
• Time-Efficient: 3-4 hour tour, ideal for travelers with limited time.
• No Lunch Included: Be prepared to find your own meal after the tour or bring snacks.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Starting at Pico dos Barcelos – Breathtaking Vistas and Aerial Views

The tour kicks off at Pico dos Barcelos, one of Madeira’s most popular viewpoints. From here, you’ll get a panoramic view that captures the bay of Funchal and the surrounding mountains. This spot is a favorite for photographers thanks to its sweeping vistas and the chance to see the city from above. The stop lasts about 30 minutes, giving you ample time to soak in the scenery and take photos. Visitors have noted the scenery is simply stunning, with one reviewer calling it a “very nice excursion” filled with “very beautiful landscapes.”

Ascending to Eira do Serrado – The Gateway to Curral das Freiras

Next, the journey continues up to Eira do Serrado at 1053 meters altitude. This vantage point offers a commanding view of Curral das Freiras, a mountain-surrounded village famous for its dramatic setting. From here, you can take a short footpath from Estalagem Eira do Serrado to reach the viewpoint if you wish to stretch your legs. The views are mesmerizing, with steep mountain slopes and the valley below, giving visitors a real sense of Madeira’s rugged terrain. We loved how this stop offers an instant sense of altitude and perspective, perfect for those who appreciate scenic photo ops.

Descending into Curral das Freiras – The Mountain Village

The tour then takes you down into Curral das Freiras, a cozy village often called the “Nuns’ Valley” because of its history. Surrounded by towering mountains, the village has a peaceful, authentic feel. Here, you can wander the narrow streets, enjoy local sights, and appreciate how residents have adapted to life in this remote setting. Reviewers have shared that this stop offers “very beautiful landscapes” and a chance to see a different, more traditional side of Madeira. Although the visit is brief—about 30 minutes—it’s enough to get a taste of local life and admire the stunning surroundings.

Visiting Monte – Gardens and the Church of Nossa Senhora do Monte

Finally, the tour visits Monte, a renowned hilltop parish famous for its lush gardens and the historic Church of Nossa Senhora do Monte. This church is a highlight, with its baroque architecture and views over Funchal. You can explore the grounds and enjoy the tranquility of the gardens, which are beautifully maintained. The guide might also share interesting stories about Monte’s history as a royal retreat and its iconic toboggan rides (though not included in this tour). The 30-minute stop allows for some relaxed exploration and photos, rounding out the scenic and culture of the trip.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One reviewer, Ingrid_P, describes the experience as “very nice,” highlighting the “very beautiful landscapes” and the guide’s engaging, flexible approach. She mentions that, since she and her group had already visited Monte previously, the guide kindly took them to Christo Rei, a viewpoint overlooking Funchal that she highly recommends. This illustrates how the tour can be personalized based on your preferences, which many travelers will appreciate.

Another point that stood out is the value for money. For just over $100 per group, you gain access to private transport, multiple scenic stops, and insider insights, which can be more intimate and flexible than larger group tours. The inclusion of WiFi on board adds convenience, especially if you want to stay connected or plan your next steps in Madeira.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• The tour begins at 9:00 am, so plan to arrive on time. Early mornings tend to have clearer skies and less crowded viewpoints.
• Since lunch isn’t included, consider packing some snacks or planning to eat after the tour in Funchal.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, but be aware that some stops involve walking or standing for a few minutes—comfortable shoes are recommended.
• The private nature of the tour makes it a flexible option if you want to add or skip certain sights, especially if your group has specific interests.
• There are no excursions on January 1st and December 25th, so plan your booking accordingly.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This Madeira tour is ideal for travelers who prefer a personalized, intimate experience over large group excursions. It’s perfect for those who want to see iconic viewpoints and picturesque villages without rushing or feeling cramped. If you enjoy photography, scenic vistas, and cultural spots like churches and local villages, you’ll find this tour offers a fantastic snapshot of Madeira’s mountain scenery and rural charm.

It’s particularly well-suited for couples, small groups, or families who value flexibility and comfort. Since the tour is private, it can be tailored to your pace or specific interests, making it a versatile choice for those wanting a relaxed yet enriching half-day adventure.

The Sum Up

This Curral das Freiras e Monte tour offers an engaging, scenic, and culturally rich experience that brings Madeira’s mountains and villages to life. The combination of breathtaking viewpoints, authentic village visits, and a flexible, private setup makes it a standout option for travelers seeking intimacy and personalized attention. The inclusion of WiFi, air-conditioned transport, and a well-paced itinerary ensures comfort and convenience, all at a reasonable price.

While it doesn’t include lunch, that allows you the freedom to explore local dining options afterward—something many travelers appreciate when planning their day. The tour’s small-group format means you’ll get more personalized insights, making it a memorable, authentic way to see the island’s highlights.

If you value scenic beauty, cultural authenticity, and flexible scheduling, this tour will satisfy those desires while offering good value for money. It’s a strong choice for those looking to experience the best of Madeira without the crowds or rushed schedules.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but consider the walking involved and the altitude changes when planning for young children or elderly travelers.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to eat after the tour in Funchal.

Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, the guide can tailor the experience based on your preferences, particularly if you’ve already visited certain sites like Monte.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 9:00 am, giving you a full morning to enjoy the sights while the weather is usually clearer.

How long are the stops?
Each stop lasts approximately 30 minutes, enough for photos, exploration, and brief visits.

Is WiFi available during the tour?
Yes, WiFi is provided on board, making it easy to share your photos or stay connected.

What is the total duration?
The entire experience lasts about 3 to 4 hours, ideal for a relaxed half-day outing.

What makes this tour stand out?
The private, personalized approach combined with stunning viewpoints and authentic village visits offers a richer, more flexible experience than large group tours.