Madeira: East Coast Cabriolet Road Trip

Traveling through Madeira often conjures images of lush hills, dramatic coastlines, and charming villages. But for those craving a truly open-air adventure, the East Coast Cabriolet Road Trip offers a vibrant and scenic escape that combines the thrill of cruising in a convertible with unforgettable views—and all in a well-organized, private setting.

This 7-hour journey is more than just a scenic drive; it’s an immersive experience that showcases the island’s diverse landscapes, cultural highlights, and natural beauty. We love how this tour takes you off the beaten path in style, giving you a chance to feel the wind and sun while discovering the heart of Madeira’s east side. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour requires a bit of flexibility—some stops involve walking or getting out for photos, which might not suit everyone.

Ideal for those who enjoy scenic drives, authentic cultural encounters, and the thrill of a convertible ride, this experience suits travelers looking for a personalized, memorable day on Madeira. If you’re eager to see the island from a new perspective—literally—this trip is worth considering.

Key Points

• Open-air adventure in a stylish Mercedes cabriolet with the wind in your hair.
• Cultural immersion in charming villages like Santana and Porto da Cruz.
• Stunning views from Pico Areeiro and Ponta de São Lourenço.
• Authentic local flavors and regional delicacies in a private, flexible setting.
• Ideal for travelers craving scenic beauty and a personalized experience.
• Duration: Approximately 7 hours, with flexible start times depending on the day.

A Deep Dive into Madeira’s East Coast Cabriolet Tour

The Madeira East Coast Cabriolet Road Trip offers an engaging way to explore the island’s eastern landscapes without the typical tourist hustle. As a private experience with a guide—who also navigates—you’ll find the journey both relaxing and informative, with commentary provided in several languages including English, French, Spanish, and Portuguese.

The Starting Point: Ponta de São Lourenço

You’ll begin your adventure at one of five convenient pickup locations in the Funchal area, including Machico, Ponta do Sol, or at the cruise dock. The first stop is the dramatic Ponta de São Lourenço, where the rugged cliffs and wild ocean create a view that feels almost otherworldly. With the top down, the sea breeze is invigorating and invigorating, making it clear why this spot is considered one of the most striking on the island. You might find yourself snapping countless photos, especially at Ponta do Rosto—famous for its endless horizons and perfect framing.

Scenic Coastal Drive & Cultural Highlights

Driving along the coast in a convertible means you’re constantly aware of the beauty around you. The wind, the salt air, the scent of the ocean—all make this quite possibly the most sensory-rich way to see Madeira’s eastern coast. After taking in the coast’s sheer cliffs and sweeping ocean views, your route takes you inland toward Porto da Cruz, a lively village that’s become known for its regional delicacies. Here, you can indulge in local flavors, which adds an authentic touch to your trip.

Lush Hills and Mountain Vistas

Next, the tour winds through lush, rolling hills of Portela, where terraced fields and green landscapes seem to stretch forever. The highlight here is reaching the Pico Areeiro, one of the island’s highest peaks. The sweeping panoramic views from this altitude are truly breathtaking and worth the effort of the ascent. This part of the trip embodies the best of Madeira’s natural diversity—mountains, coast, and everything in between.

Charming Villages & Panoramic Vistas

Santana is a key stop—famous for its traditional triangular houses with thatched roofs, painted in vibrant colors. It’s a chance to see Madeira’s cultural architecture up close and learn about local lifestyle. You’ll also visit the Miradouro do Guindaste for more awe-inspiring views, and enjoy a peaceful moment amid lush surroundings.

The Dramatic Cliffs of Ponta de São Lourenço

The journey wraps up at Ponta de São Lourenço—a highlight for many travelers. The cliffs here are dizzyingly steep, and the endless ocean views are unparalleled. The fresh ocean air, combined with the scenic vistas, makes for a memorable end to the day.

Authentic Experiences & Practical Details

The tour includes pickup and drop-off at select locations, with additional options for outside Funchal for an extra fee. The private vehicle is a stylish Mercedes CLK Cabriolet, making the experience feel special yet comfortable. The driver-guide provides lively commentary, adding context and stories along the way.

Food and drinks aren’t included, but you’ll have ample opportunities to sample regional cuisine at stops like Porto da Cruz. Remember to bring sunglasses, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water—comfortable clothes are recommended since you’ll be outdoors much of the day.

What Reviewers Say

Multiple reviewers highlight how the stunning views and beautiful scenic stops were the main draws. One noted, “The views from Pico Areeiro are truly world-class, and the drive felt like a movie scene.” Others appreciated the personalized nature of the tour, mentioning that being in a private group allowed for flexible stops and a relaxed pace. Some did mention that the tour involves walking at certain stops and that the experience best suits those comfortable with a day outdoors.

Pricing & Value

At around 155 euros per person, this tour offers good value—considering it includes a private guide, transportation in a stylish cabriolet, and multiple scenic stops. Compared to other high-end or group tours, this personalized experience provides a level of intimacy and flexibility that many travelers find worth the extra cost. Plus, the ability to reserve with “pay later” adds peace of mind for flexible planning.

Who is This Tour Best For?

Those who love scenic drives and want to explore Madeira’s east coast in style will find this experience perfect. It’s especially suited for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who prefer a personalized, intimate experience over large tour buses. If you’re a photography enthusiast, the stops at viewpoints and villages will provide plenty of picture-perfect moments.

It’s also ideal for travelers looking to combine natural beauty with cultural insights, as the stops include picturesque villages and local delicacies. However, if you’re less mobile or prefer indoor activities, some of the walking and outdoor stops might be less comfortable.

The Sum Up

The Madeira East Coast Cabriolet Road Trip combines the thrill of a convertible ride with the visual feast of Madeira’s landscapes. It’s a flexible, private experience that offers stunning vistas, charming villages, and a taste of local life—all set against the backdrop of some of the most dramatic scenery on the island.

For travelers who want to see Madeira’s coast in a fun, stylish way while enjoying personalized attention, this tour creates memorable moments that go beyond the usual sightseeing. Expect sweeping mountain and ocean views, authentic cultural encounters, and plenty of “wow” photo opportunities.

This experience suits those with a sense of adventure and a love for open-air exploration, as well as anyone eager to avoid crowds and enjoy Madeira at a relaxed, luxurious pace. If you’re seeking a scenic, authentic, and personalized day out, this Cabriolet Road Trip is a fantastic choice.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 7 hours, with flexible start times depending on the day.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a private driver-guide, fuel surcharge, live commentary, pickup and drop-off from designated Funchal area locations, and transport in a private Mercedes cabriolet.

Are food and drinks included?
No, but there are opportunities to taste regional delicacies at stops like Porto da Cruz.

Can I be picked up outside Funchal?
Yes, but there is an extra fee for pickups outside Funchal city center.

Is it suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s not wheelchair accessible and involves some walking at stops.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes for outdoor exploration.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.