Incredible tour to a ‘Faja’ with a story

Introduction

Imagine visiting a place in Madeira that feels like stepping into a hidden world—away from the busy tourist spots, yet rich with stories and stunning scenery. That’s exactly what this Fajã dos Padres tour offers. It’s a short, approximately two-hour experience that transports you to a unique coastal farm accessible only by cable car or boat. Many reviewers highlight the passionate guides, the beauty of the location, and the chance to taste freshly grown organic fruits, making it a compelling choice for those seeking authentic experiences.

What we really love about this tour is its combination of history and natural beauty. The fact that it’s a working farm with a history dating back over 150 years adds a layer of authenticity you won’t find in typical sightseeing. Plus, the opportunity to relax on a pebble beach or enjoy farm-to-table dining makes it more than just a quick visit—it’s a taste of Madeira’s rural soul. However, it’s worth noting that the location’s accessibility might pose a challenge for travelers with walking limitations, and the cost might seem steep for some, given the relatively short duration.

This tour suits travelers eager for a quiet escape, nature lovers, foodies, and those interested in local history. It’s perfect if you want a meaningful experience that combines scenic views, cultural insights, and fresh produce, all in one go.

Key Points

• Unique coastal farm accessible only by cable car or boat, offering a glimpse into Madeira’s rural life.
• Rich history of the site, first inhabited by Jesuits 150 years ago, adding depth to the visit.
• Stunning vistas from cable car rides and orchard paths providing excellent photo opportunities.
• Authentic farm-to-table dining using the farm’s own organic fruits and locally caught fish.
• Passionate and knowledgeable guides like Fatima, who enhance the experience with stories and insights.
• Good value for money at around $38, especially considering the included fruit tasting and scenic views.

The Experience: A Deep Dive into the Fajã dos Padres Tour

How the Tour Begins

The adventure kicks off at the designated meeting point on Quinta Grande, with most trips starting around 10:30 am. You’ll hop onto a cable car that whisks you over the lush landscape to the Fajã dos Padres. This ride alone is worth the price, offering sweeping views of the coastline and the farm’s terraced orchards below. The cable car’s panoramic windows let you see the famous pebble beach and the vibrant green of the farm’s extensive fruit trees, setting the tone for what’s to come.

Exploring the Fajã

Once you arrive, the site immediately feels special. It’s a place where nature and history blend seamlessly. The farm, still active today, is a testament to sustainable farming, with subtropical fruits and grapes grown organically. As we learned from the guides, the farm originally served as a Jesuit outpost over 150 years ago, which explains its quiet, almost sacred atmosphere.

Walking through the orchard paths, we were struck by the passionate storytelling from guides like Fatima, who clearly loves sharing her knowledge. According to reviews, she’s particularly effective at making the history come alive, recounting how the site was once a secret retreat for Jesuits, and how the current farmers pride themselves on organic practices.

Tasting the Fruits

One of the highlight moments is the fruit tasting, which many reviewers mention as a delicious surprise. The farm produces a variety of tropical and subtropical fruits, like bananas and grapes, which are freshly picked and served at the end of the tour. It’s an authentic, farm-fresh experience that adds flavor—literally—to the trip. Guests often comment on how the fruit “was absolutely delicious,” and some describe it as unlike any they’ve had before.

The Beach and Dining Options

After the orchard walk, visitors can unwind on the exclusive pebble beach, a rare find along Madeira’s coastline. It’s a calm, scenic spot where you can relax and take photos or dip your toes in the sea.

For those wanting to extend their visit, the farm’s restaurant offers farm-to-table dishes, recognized for using their own organic produce and fresh fish. The terrace overlooking the sea provides a perfect setting for a relaxed meal, pairing well with the stunning views.

Group Size and Accessibility

The tour is intentionally limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience. Most reviews note friendly, enthusiastic guides—like Fatima—who go above and beyond to answer questions and share insights. However, the tour isn’t recommended for travelers with walking limitations, due to uneven paths and the boat or cable car access.

Pricing and Value

At $37.92 per person, the tour feels like a good deal, especially considering the inclusion of the cable car ride, the guided tour, and the fruit tasting. Visitors often mention that the experience offers excellent value, as it combines scenic beauty, educational content, and a delicious farm-fresh snack in a compact timeframe.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What makes this experience truly memorable is the combination of natural beauty, historical context, and authentic farm life. It’s one thing to see a farm; it’s another to walk through a site that’s been working for over a century and learn its stories firsthand. The passionate guides, especially Fatima, bring the place to life with their storytelling and knowledge, making the history tangible.

Visitors consistently praise the stunning views from the cable car and orchard paths, which are Instagram-worthy without feeling staged. The farm’s organic produce adds a special touch, elevating the experience from sightseeing to tasting.

On top of that, this tour’s small group size means you get personalized attention, making it easier to ask questions and truly soak in the atmosphere. The option to relax on the pebble beach or dine in the restaurant offers flexibility depending on how much time you have or your mood for the day.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want more than just a quick glance at Madeira’s scenery. If you’re interested in local history, organic farming, and authentic food experiences, this will resonate with you. It’s perfect if you appreciate guided stories from passionate hosts and enjoy scenic rides with panoramic views.

It’s especially suited to those who are comfortable with walking on uneven paths and don’t mind a somewhat exclusive, small-group setting. If you’re traveling with kids or have mobility concerns, it’s worth considering whether the terrain will be manageable.

Overall, for less than $40, this experience offers a meaningful slice of Madeira’s rural life, combined with stunning vistas and delicious fruit. It’s a memorable, authentic adventure that’s well worth the price.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s generally suitable for most travelers, but those with walking limitations may find parts of the tour challenging due to uneven paths. Kids who enjoy nature and outdoor walks will likely love it.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The meeting point is at Fajã dos Padres on Quinta Grande. It’s near public transportation, but most visitors choose to arrange a taxi or private transfer for convenience.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers the cable car ride, guided tour, and fruit tasting. Meals or additional drinks are available at the farm’s restaurant if you choose to stay longer.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity that won’t take up your entire schedule.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, good weather is required. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are in each group?
Maximum group size is 12 travelers, allowing for a more intimate and personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility in planning.

Is there a restaurant on-site?
Yes, there’s a farm-to-table restaurant recognized for using organic produce and fresh fish, with a terrace overlooking the sea.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to uneven paths. Bring sunscreen and water for hydration.

Will I see the farm’s produce firsthand?
Absolutely. The guides walk you through the orchards and explain the organic farming practices, and you get to taste fruits directly from the trees.

This Madeira tour packs a lot into a brief window—scenery, story, and taste—all wrapped into one affordable, authentic experience. Perfect for those who want to discover a quieter side of the island and appreciate its farming traditions.