Madeira : Exorbitant West Tour

Are you considering a day trip to explore Madeira’s striking western coast? The Exorbitant West Tour offers a convenient way to see some of the island’s most scenic spots and charming villages in about eight hours. While it’s not a private or exclusive experience, it packs in a variety of highlights that appeal to those who want a broad overview of Madeira’s natural beauty and cultural charm.

One thing we genuinely appreciate about this tour is its focus on iconic viewpoints, like Cabo Girao and Porto Moniz. You’ll get sweeping panoramas and the chance to stand on Europe’s highest cliff. However, a possible downside is that some stops might feel rushed, especially if you love wandering and soaking in the atmosphere.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a structured, budget-friendly day of sightseeing with a good mix of natural wonders and local villages. If you’re someone who values interesting views and a taste of Madeira’s character without the hassle of planning, this could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Cost-effective: At $40 per person, it offers a broad range of sights at a reasonable price.
• Highlights: Focus on stunning viewpoints, natural pools, and quaint villages.
• Duration: Around 8 hours, with most stops being brief but memorable.
• Group Size and Guides: Live guides speak multiple languages, making it accessible.
• Convenience: Pickup and drop-off in Funchal add to the overall ease.
• Potential for rushed stops: Some reviewers find the time spent at each stop too short for real exploration.

What to Expect from the Madeira Exorbitant West Tour

This tour is designed as a rundown of Madeira’s western coast, balancing natural scenery with small-town charm. The itinerary includes eight key stops, each offering something unique: from impressive cliffs and volcanic pools to traditional villages.

The Scenic Highlights: Cabo Girao and Porto Moniz

The journey begins with visits to Cabo Girao, famously crowned with a 580-meter-high glass balcony. This is arguably the tour’s star attraction—standing on the transparent platform while looking down over the Atlantic is a thrill. The views are nothing short of spectacular, offering an excellent photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate the island’s dramatic coastline.

Next, the group heads to Porto Moniz, renowned for its volcanic natural swimming pools. These pools are formed from black volcanic rocks and filled naturally with seawater, creating a unique swimming experience. While some may view the pools as a touristy spot, they’re undeniably picturesque and worth a quick visit. A lunch stop here allows you to enjoy local cuisine with a view of the pools.

Charming Villages and Cultural Stops

The tour also includes visits to Ribeira Brava—home to a 15th-century church—and Câmara de Lobos, a fishing village famously painted by Winston Churchill. The latter is a colorful place where you can see traditional boats and try local drinks. These stops give a glimpse into Madeira’s authentic, laid-back lifestyle.

São Vicente is another highlight: a picture-perfect village with a 17th-century church, where you’ll enjoy a peaceful atmosphere away from the busier tourist spots. You also visit Madaleana do Mar, a small village surrounded by banana plantations, giving insight into the island’s agricultural side.

Nature and Waterfalls

The tour includes stops at Seixal, where you can admire the Bridal Veil waterfall and other scenic waterfalls. These spots offer nice photo opportunities and a chance to enjoy Madeira’s lush greenery.

For a more serene experience, the stop at Fonte do Bispo in Paúl de Serra lets you appreciate the island’s highland landscapes—cooler air, sweeping vistas, and peaceful surroundings.

How the Tour Operates

The tour is operated by Feeling Madeira, which offers a pick-up service from hotels in Funchal, including the downtown and tourist areas, Caniço de Baixo, and Garajau. The group size tends to be small, with live guides speaking multiple languages—Portuguese, English, Spanish, German, and French—adding to the engaging experience.

The price of $40 covers insurance, taxes, and transportation. It’s an affordable way to see a wide swath of Madeira’s highlights without the hassle of renting a car or planning your own route. The 8-hour duration ensures you see many sights, but be prepared for some brief stops, as noted by reviewers.

Real Traveler Perspectives

One reviewer from GetYourGuide mentioned, “The driver stopped at all the promised stops, was friendly and gave us information about Madeira on the journey.” This suggests that the guide’s commentary adds value, especially if you’re interested in learning local facts during the drive.

However, not all feedback was glowing. A traveler noted, “The stops in the individual places were a little too short for me. I would find fewer stops and more time to explore more pleasant.” They specifically mentioned a banana plantation stop that felt somewhat rushed and not particularly scenic, as it was along a busy road and led only to a concrete path past a few banana plants.

This points to one of the tour’s main compromises: the desire to pack many sights into a day means some stops might feel hurried, especially if you prefer deep dives into each location.

Transportation and Group Dynamics

The transportation is typically comfortable, a key aspect for an 8-hour day. The group sizes tend to be small to medium, which can be conducive to more personalized attention from guides. The guides are multilingual, making the experience accessible for many travelers.

Timing-wise, you should expect to begin early and return in the late afternoon. The itinerary is structured to ensure all key spots are covered, but punctuality is important since the day is tightly scheduled.

Is This Tour Worth Its Price?

For $40, you’re getting a well-rounded view of Madeira’s west coast—including iconic viewpoints, volcanic pools, and authentic villages. The value lies in the convenience—no need to rent a car or navigate public transport—and in the variety of sights packed into one day.

However, if you’re someone who prefers leisurely exploration and spending more time in each spot, this might feel a bit rushed. The quick stops are perfect for snapping photos and getting a taste of each place but might leave you wanting more time to soak in the atmosphere.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want a structured overview of Madeira’s western highlights. It’s particularly suitable for those with limited time, as it offers a snapshot of the island’s natural beauty and traditional villages within a manageable day.

If you’re looking for stunning views and a hassle-free way to see the coast without the stress of planning, this tour fits the bill. However, if your priority is in-depth exploration of each location or wandering at your own pace, you might prefer to rent a car or join a private guide.

The Sum Up

The Madeira Exorbitant West Tour provides a solid introduction to the island’s dramatic scenery, quaint villages, and volcanic marvels. It’s a good value for the price, especially considering the convenience of hotel pickup and multilingual guides. The major highlights—Cabo Girao, Porto Moniz, and Câmara de Lobos—are genuinely breathtaking and worth the experience.

That said, the quick stops may not satisfy those craving in-depth exploration or leisurely strolls through each village. If you’re after stunning views, unique geological features, and a taste of Madeira’s traditional charm, this tour delivers on most fronts. Just be ready for a busy day and some brief moments at each stop.

In the end, it’s a reliable, cost-effective way to see Madeira’s west coast and create lasting memories of its striking landscapes. It’s perfect for travelers who want a guided day of sightseeing with minimal fuss but don’t mind a quick look at the sights.

FAQ

How long is the Madeira Exorbitant West Tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, starting early and returning in the late afternoon, making it a full-day activity.

What is included in the price?
The price covers insurance, taxes, transportation, and guided commentary in multiple languages.

Are there hotel pick-ups?
Yes, the tour includes pick-up and drop-off in Funchal area, including downtown, Caniço de Baixo, and Garajau.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages do guides speak?
Guides speak Portuguese, English, Spanish, German, and French, making it accessible for most travelers.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on scenic viewpoints and short stops suggests it could work well for families, but consider your children’s patience with quick stops.

Is the tour worth the price?
At $40, it offers a good range of sights, especially given the convenience. However, if you prefer more time at each location, consider whether the rushed stops meet your travel style.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera—especially since the views are a major highlight.