From Funchal: Cabo Girão & Poncha Tasting by Classic VW

From Funchal: Cabo Girão & Poncha Tasting by Classic VW

Exploring Madeira in a vintage VW is quite the treat. This 4-hour tour offers a stylish ride through the island’s scenic roads, unforgettable views, and authentic local flavors. It’s a balanced mix of sightseeing, cultural insights, and fun, all wrapped up in a charming retro package.

What we really love about this tour is how it combines the nostalgia of a classic car ride with authentic Madeira experiences, like tasting poncha in a traditional bar. That authentic touch makes it more than just another sightseeing trip.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues or large luggage, as it involves some walking and a small vehicle. It’s perfect for travelers who want a personalized, engaging way to see Madeira’s highlights without the hassle of big buses or crowded tours.

This experience suits those who appreciate unique transportation, cultural flavor, and stunning vistas—all in a relaxed, private setting. Whether you’re a first-timer or a return visitor, it’s a great way to see the island from a different perspective.

Key Points

• Authentic vintage VW experience offering a stylish way to explore Madeira’s scenic roads
• Stunning views from Cabo Girão and other viewpoints with a glass skywalk experience
• Cultural immersion through visits to local villages and traditional poncha tasting
• Personalized and private group setting, with flexible pickup options in Funchal
• Knowledgeable guides who share insights and make the journey engaging
• Value for money with an all-inclusive transportation and sightseeing experience

An In-Depth Look at the Vintage VW Tour of Madeira

This tour by Carochentos is not just about ticking sightseeing boxes; it’s about enjoying the journey and feeling connected to Madeira’s authentic charm. Starting in Funchal, you’ll hop into a classic Volkswagen Beetle—an eye-catching vintage car that immediately sets a nostalgic tone. The driver and guide are experienced, knowledgeable, and friendly, making the 4-hour adventure feel like a personalized exploration.

The Scenic Drive and Itinerary

The tour kicks off with a pickup from your hotel or cruise terminal—convenient for cruise passengers or those staying in Funchal. Once aboard the vintage VW, the real fun begins. The small group ensures plenty of opportunities for conversation and spontaneous stops.

Câmara de Lobos is your first notable stop—here, you’ll get a chance to snap photos of fishing boats bobbing in the harbor and admire the charming town’s traditional vibe. Reviewers mention stopping here for sightseeing, photos, and enjoying a cocktail, giving a taste of local life. One guest noted how the guide, Miguel, was full of local knowledge and made the visit lively.

Next, the drive takes you to Pico da Torre viewpoint, offering panoramic views that are described as “stunning” by visitors. It’s a great spot for photos and soaking in the island’s lush landscape. Expect to be wowed by the scenery—reviewers mention the “stunning scenery” and highlight how the guide’s commentary added depth to the experience.

The Showstopper: Cabo Girão

No visit to Madeira is complete without seeing Cabo Girão, Europe’s highest sea cliff. The tour includes a dedicated stop here, with roughly 30 minutes to explore and take in the views. You’ll get the chance to walk on the glass skywalk, which offers a vertiginous thrill and incredible views over Funchal and Câmara de Lobos.

Reviewers highlight how this spot is a must-see, with one saying, “The views from Cabo Girão are breathtaking—something you won’t forget.” Keep in mind, the entrance to Cabo Girão isn’t included, so you’ll need to pay locally if you want to go on the skywalk.

Ribeira Brava and Serra de Água

Driving through Ribeira Brava offers a glimpse into island life, with a short stop to appreciate the town’s charm. Then, the route heads to Serra de Água, a mountain village where you’ll enjoy an authentic poncha tasting. The tour includes a visit to a “famous poncha bar,” where you can sample this traditional Madeira alcoholic drink.

A reviewer described the poncha stop as a “great addition,” appreciating the opportunity to try regional drinks in a typical local bar. The guide’s insights about the drink’s history and ingredients added an educational touch.

Authenticity and Personal Touch

What makes this tour stand out is the personalized approach. The small group size and the driver’s attentiveness mean you can ask questions, take photos whenever you want, and enjoy a relaxed pace. Guests consistently praise guides like Miguel for their knowledge, friendliness, and willingness to share local stories.

The tour’s focus on local villages and regional stops makes it feel genuine—more than just a sightseeing bus, it’s a curated experience that reflects Madeira’s authentic charm.

What You Get for the Price

At $85 per person, this tour offers significant value. It includes pick-up and drop-off in Funchal, transportation in a stylish vintage VW, visits to multiple viewpoints, a poncha tasting, and flexible timing. While meals and entrance fees to Cabo Girão aren’t included, the overall experience delivers picturesque views, cultural insights, and a sense of adventure.

Guests report that the guides are engaging and well-informed, making the tour educational as well as fun. The opportunity to explore on a private tour with a small group adds a feeling of exclusivity and comfort that larger tours often lack.

Practical Tips for Your Vintage VW Adventure

• Wear comfortable shoes for short walks and sightseeing stops.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a light jacket—the weather can change quickly, especially in the mountains.
• Reserve in advance, especially during peak season, as this tour is popular.
• If you’re staying outside Funchal or on a cruise, check if extra costs apply for pickup outside the area.
• Be prepared for some small vehicle space — luggage or large bags aren’t suitable for this experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a fun, relaxed way to explore Madeira’s highlights without the crowds of bus tours. It’s especially ideal if you enjoy vintage vehicles, scenic drives, and authentic local experiences like poncha tasting.

If you’re a photography enthusiast, the many viewpoints and picturesque villages will delight you. Those interested in culture will appreciate the stops at traditional bars and local villages, gaining a deeper understanding of island life.

It’s also a fantastic choice for couples or small groups seeking a personalized, memorable experience that balances sightseeing with cultural flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Vintage VW tour from Funchal stands out as a charming and authentic way to explore Madeira’s stunning landscapes and local culture. The combination of stunning viewpoints, a glass skywalk at Cabo Girão, and the chance to taste poncha in a traditional bar creates a well-rounded experience that appeals to many travelers.

The guides, like Miguel, bring a wealth of local knowledge and warmth that elevates the trip from simply sightseeing to a genuine cultural encounter. The price is reasonable considering the personalized service, the scenic drives, and the memorable stops along the way.

If you’re after a fun, intimate, and scenic exploration of Madeira—with a touch of nostalgia—this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially good for those who prefer small groups, authentic experiences, and memorable vistas over large, generic tours.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for cruise passengers?
Yes, the tour includes free pickup and drop-off at the cruise terminal, making it very convenient for cruise travelers.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers transportation in a vintage VW, pickup and drop-off in Funchal, visits to viewpoints, and a poncha tasting at Serra de Água. Entrance fees to Cabo Girão are not included.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 4 hours, with a flexible starting time depending on availability.

Can I join this tour if I am staying outside Funchal?
Yes, pickup outside Funchal is available upon request for an extra cost.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and some walking may be involved, so consider mobility needs.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, along with sunscreen, a hat, and a light jacket for variable weather.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but the poncha tasting and sightseeing stops make this a flavorful experience.

In short, this vintage VW tour offers a charming, engaging, and very authentic way to see Madeira. It’s a blend of stunning scenery, cultural insights, and fun, making it an experience you’ll remember long after your trip ends.