Discover The East – Madeira Island

If you’re looking to explore Madeira beyond Funchal’s lively streets, the “Discover The East” tour offers a well-rounded day of stunning vistas, traditional villages, and local crafts. Priced at just over $35 per person, this 8-hour excursion provides a balanced mix of natural beauty and cultural insights, making it a popular choice among travelers wanting to see Madeira’s lesser-known treasures.

One of the aspects we really appreciate is how this tour offers a rundown of Madeira’s east side without feeling rushed. From visiting a wicker factory to marveling at panoramic mountain views, it’s designed to give a taste of the island’s diverse scenery and traditions. However, a potential consideration is the timing at each stop; some reviewers mentioned the short periods allocated for certain sites, which might leave you wishing for a little more time at places like Santana.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic views, cultural experiences, and a bit of local history. It’s ideal for those who prefer guided tours with insightful commentary and appreciate stopping at multiple points of interest in one day. If you’re after a budget-friendly, well-organized way to see Madeira’s east, this is definitely worth considering.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering natural sights and local culture.
• Knowledgeable guides contribute to a more enriching experience.
• Affordable price point offers good value for the variety of stops.
• Short stop durations may limit time for personal exploration.
• Picnic-worthy vistas at Pico do Areeiro and Ponta de São Lourenço.
• Authentic local sights like Santana’s traditional houses and the wicker factory.

Analyzing the Experience: What to Expect on the “Discover The East” Tour

Starting Point: The Charm of Camacha Parish

Your day begins bright and early at 9:00 am, with pickup from your hotel in Funchal. The first stop takes you to the picturesque village of Camacha, perched on a high plateau. This village is famed for its traditional wickerwork, with a visit to a wicker factory where you can observe craftspeople at work — a genuine look into Madeira’s artisanal heritage. It’s a quick 20-minute stop, but enough to appreciate the skills involved in creating some of the island’s most iconic crafts.

Reviews highlight that the guide, possibly Renato, brought enthusiasm and humor to this part of the day, making the visit both informative and fun. The setting, surrounded by lush woodland, sets a peaceful tone for the day ahead.

Reaching New Heights: Pico do Areeiro

Next, the tour ascends to Pico do Areeiro, Madeira’s third-highest summit at 1818 meters. This spot is a major highlight for many travelers, offering breathtaking panoramic views of volcanic landscapes and deep valleys. It’s a quick 20-minute stop, but the vistas here are truly worth it. You’ll understand why this mountain is a favorite photo spot for visitors.

One reviewer loved the way the guide explained the volcanic formation of the island, helping us see Madeira’s landscape with new appreciation. It’s worth noting that weather conditions can affect visibility, so clear days will maximize your experience.

Ribeiro Frio and the Trout Nursery

Descending from the heights, the journey takes you to Ribeiro Frio, a lush area known for its aromatic forests and trout nursery. This stop is 30 minutes long and offers a chance to see the fish farm where trout are raised before being served at local restaurants. It’s a peaceful scene, with the chance to breathe in Madeira’s natural air and learn about local aquaculture.

According to reviews, the environment here is truly inviting, and the trout farm adds a touch of authenticity. Some travelers valued the serene atmosphere and the chance to appreciate Madeira’s greenery.

Discovering Santana’s Traditional Houses

A highlight for many is Santana, a village famous for its triangular, thatched-roof houses called “Palheiros.” This stop lasts about 2 hours, giving you ample time to walk around and photograph the brightly painted cottages. Visitors love how colorful and well-preserved these houses are, providing a glimpse into Madeira’s rural past.

One reviewer appreciated that some houses still remain amidst modern buildings, allowing for authentic photo opportunities. The village also offers a chance to browse local crafts and enjoy regional cuisine if you wish.

The Scenic Ponta de São Lourenço

Next, the tour takes you to Ponta de São Lourenço, a dramatic peninsula offering spectacular cliff views and rugged terrain. Here, a guide points out native flora and fauna, making the experience educational as well as scenic. The walk is short—about 20 minutes—but well worth it for the striking landscape and ocean vistas.

Feedback from visitors highlights how the guide’s insights about local vegetation and wildlife brought depth to the experience. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Wrapping Up in Machico

The last stops are in Machico, where you’ll explore a charming cove and learn about Madeira’s first landing in 1420. This 20-minute visit is a gentle way to end the day, with the chance to soak in the history and enjoy the seaside scenery.

Many reviews mention the significance of Machico’s history, with some noting that this city offers a peaceful contrast to the more mountainous areas. It’s a lovely spot to reflect on the day’s adventures.

Return to Funchal

The tour wraps up with a return to your hotel by around 5:00 pm, giving you plenty of time to relax or explore more of Funchal in the evening.

What the Reviews Say: Authentic Insights

While most guests found the tour to be a good value, some noted the short time at each stop. Jenny W. pointed out that “we only stopped for about 20 minutes at each”, which might feel rushed if you’re eager to explore more thoroughly. On the other hand, others appreciated the “fun places” and the knowledgeable guide, Renato, who added humor and local insights, making the day both enjoyable and informative.

Ellen M. praised the “fantastic scenery” and the “fabulous views of the sea and mountains,” emphasizing the value of having an experienced guide to point out native vegetation and wildlife, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Practical Details: Is This Tour Worth It?

At $35.44 per person, this tour offers a convenient way to see a diverse slice of Madeira’s east in one day. The price includes transportation, guide services, and several scenic and cultural stops, providing good value for those interested in a guided, structured experience.

The small group size (maximum 15 travelers) means more personalized attention and a chance to ask questions or get tailored recommendations from the guide. Pickup is offered from your hotel, which simplifies logistics and allows you to relax from the start.

Timing-wise, the tour’s 8-hour length with multiple stops means you’ll cover quite a bit, but some sites are brief. If you prefer longer visits or more free time at each location, you might find this tour somewhat rushed. However, for travelers wanting a taste of everything without the hassle of planning each stop, it hits the right note.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Discover The East tour is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want a well-organized, guided day exploring Madeira’s scenic east coast. It’s ideal if you value authentic cultural experiences like the wicker factory and Santana’s houses, along with breathtaking viewpoints like Pico do Areeiro and Ponta de São Lourenço.

It suits those who appreciate short but meaningful stops, with insightful guides making the journey both educational and fun. Families, first-time visitors, or anyone looking to maximize their time without renting a car will find this tour a practical choice.

However, if you’re seeking a more leisurely pace with plenty of time to explore each site independently, or a customized experience, this may feel a bit too structured. Still, for the price and the variety of sights covered, it’s a solid way to get a good overview of Madeira’s east.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation is provided as part of the package, making it easy to move between the various stops without worrying about driving.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 9:00 am with hotel pickup, ensuring you start your day early to make the most of it.

How long is each stop?
Most stops last between 20 to 30 minutes, with Santana being the longest at about 2 hours. Some guests feel this is a little brief at certain sites.

Are there any entrance fees?
Most stops are free, including the wicker factory, Pico do Areeiro, Ribeiro Frio, Santana, Ponta de São Lourenço, and Machico. The only exception might be optional personal purchases or meals.

Is this suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for most travelers, including families, as long as they are comfortable with walking short distances and the overall pace.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but you will have opportunities to purchase food at certain stops like Santana or Machico if desired.

How many people typically join?
The tour caps at 15 travelers, offering a more intimate experience and the chance to get personalized insights from the guide.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a camera for the vistas, and some snacks or water for the day are recommended.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour depends on good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

Overall, the “Discover The East” tour from Feeling Madeira offers a thoughtfully curated day that balances natural beauty, local culture, and scenic views—all at a very accessible price point. Whether you’re a first-timer eager to see Madeira’s highlights or someone wanting a structured day without the hassle, this tour provides a solid, enjoyable experience.