Madeira North Offbeat: Boaventura, Sao Vicente, Pta Delgada

If you’re looking to explore Madeira beyond the usual tourist spots, the Madeira North Offbeat Tour offers a chance to uncover some of the island’s lesser-known treasures. Designed for those who crave authentic experiences and scenic beauty, this 8-hour journey takes you through quiet villages, dramatic viewpoints, and surprising landmarks that highlight the island’s natural charm.

One of the best things about this tour is the knowledgeable guide—our reviews rave about Richard, whose storytelling brought the island’s history and secrets to life. The scenic stops are genuinely breathtaking, especially the panoramic views from Encumeada and Espigão. However, the trip’s focus on remote spots means some may find the day’s pace a bit relaxed, and it’s not ideal if you prefer a more structured or crowded tour setting.

This experience suits travelers who love scenic drives, small groups, and authentic local culture. If you want a day out that feels both adventurous and intimate, with plenty of photo-worthy moments along the way, this is an excellent choice.

Key Points

• Authentic Hidden Spots: Explore lesser-known villages and viewpoints that aren’t often on tourist itineraries.
• Expert Guide: Richard’s storytelling enhances the experience, offering insights you won’t find in guidebooks.
• Stunning Panoramas: From Espigão to Encumeada, expect some of the most breathtaking vistas on the island.
• Cultural Touches: Discover places like Madeira’s version of Sagrada Familia and the historic village of Boaventura.
• Local Flavors: Enjoy a traditional Poncha to toast the day, adding an authentic touch to your visit.
• Value for Money: For $74, the tour packs a full day of sightseeing, transportation, and local drinks, making it a solid investment.

Introduction: An Offbeat Way to See Madeira

This Madeira North Offbeat Tour promises an alternative way to experience the island’s wild beauty and hidden corners. Instead of the typical crowded excursions, it offers a small-group journey where you’ll visit secret viewpoints, charming villages, and natural wonders that most visitors miss.

What makes this experience stand out is the focus on authentic locations—like the quiet village of Boaventura with its historic mansions, and the surprisingly ornate Sagrada Familia chapel built by a local craftsman. Plus, the panoramic views from the Encumeada viewpoint and Espigão reveal Madeira’s rugged landscape in all its glory.

A key highlight is the guide—Richard—who is praised for making the tour engaging with his knowledge and stories about the island. The tour is priced at $74 per person, which seems reasonable given the full day of sightseeing, local drinks, and transportation included. That said, travelers should be prepared for a laid-back, flexible itinerary that sometimes depends on weather conditions, as Madeira’s weather can change unexpectedly.

This tour is perfect for curious explorers, small groups, and those who love scenic drives combined with a touch of local culture. If you’re after a genuine, off-the-beaten-path experience, this will likely be a highlight of your Madeira trip.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point and Morning Pickup

Depending on your booking, you’ll be picked up at one of five convenient locations in Funchal, Caniço, or Lido. This flexibility helps travelers to jump right into the adventure without fuss. The small-group setup means no long bus rides or overcrowded environments—just a cozy van ready to whisk you off.

Miradouro Fajã dos Padres

Your first stop is a scenic overlook—Fajã dos Padres—where you’ll get a quick coffee break. The view here is stunning, with terraced farms stretching down the hillside, illustrating Madeira’s authentic agricultural practices. The stop is about 30 minutes, enough to snap photos and appreciate the fresh mountain air.

Espigão: The “End of the World”

The next highlight is Espigão, a spot so dramatic it earns the nickname. The panoramic views here showcase Madeira’s dramatic valleys and untamed nature. It’s a quiet, awe-inspiring place where you can really feel the wild spirit of the island. Reviewers mention that the view is simply beautiful, which speaks to the impact of this rugged, less-traveled corner.

Madeira’s Sagrada Familia

A surprising stop is the tiny chapel inspired by Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia. Built over 15 years by local resident Mr. Macedo, it’s a testament to Madeira’s quirky, artistic spirit. Sitting amongst lush greenery, this chapel offers a fascinating contrast to the typical religious sites travelers often visit.

Serra de Água

Moving into Serra de Água, you’ll find a peaceful village surrounded by high mountains, far from crowded tourist areas. Here, the natural beauty is undisturbed, and it’s a perfect spot to breathe in the fresh mountain air while soaking in the lush scenery.

Encumeada Viewpoint

Perched at 1007 meters, Encumeada offers sweeping views of both the northern and southern coasts—making it a photographer’s dream. The vista captures Madeira’s rugged landscape, with layers of mountains, deep valleys, and the wild Atlantic below. Reviewers mention that this viewpoint is a “postcard landscape,” and it’s one of the highlights that makes the tour memorable.

São Vicente: The Northern Gem

The charming town of São Vicente is a favorite among guests. You’ll climb the church tower for a unique perspective on the rugged coastline and the lush green surroundings. The town itself is quiet but full of character, with a relaxed vibe that’s perfect for a quick exploration or a photo stop.

Ponta Delgada: Hidden Beach Village

Often overlooked, Ponta Delgada is a lovely surprise. Surrounded by greenery and sitting right on the coast, this village offers a peaceful atmosphere and stunning sea views. It’s a chance to see how authentic Madeira life continues away from the tourist hubs.

Boaventura and the Day’s End

The tour concludes in Boaventura, one of the island’s oldest villages. With preserved mansions and traditional architecture, it feels like stepping back in time. The final toast is a highlight—a tasting of Poncha, the local spirit flavored with lemon and honey. Reviewers mention that this authentic drink is a perfect way to end the day, soaking in the atmosphere and camaraderie.

Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

The tour uses a comfortable van, which is ideal for the winding mountain roads and scenic drives. The total duration is around 8 hours, with the starting times varying based on your chosen pickup point. The small group limit of 8 participants ensures a personalized experience where guides can tailor the commentary and make stops at your preferred pace.

In terms of timing, expect a relaxed start with a short stop for coffee and explanations, followed by several longer sightseeing and photo breaks. The itinerary is flexible, but you’ll get a good balance between driving, sightseeing, and local interaction.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour price of $74 per person offers excellent value considering the full day’s activities, transportation, and included drinks. You’ll get a small bottle of water during the ride, and for drinks, there’s the choice of Poncha, beer, or a soft drink, plus a coffee. The inclusion of insurance gives peace of mind, and the guide’s expertise ensures you gain insight into Madeira’s hidden stories.

Not included are meals, but the tour can organize a group lunch if you wish. You’ll need to arrange your own transfer from outside Funchal or Caniço to the meeting point. It’s worth noting that the tour isn’t suitable for children under 12 or those using mobility aids like scooters or electric wheelchairs, mainly due to the nature of the stops and terrain.

Authentic Experiences and Why They Matter

One of the strongest points of this tour is the chance to experience Madeira like a local. From the historic village of Boaventura to the obscure chapel that mimics Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia, each stop offers a glimpse into the island’s cultural layers. Guests have appreciated Richard’s storytelling, which brings these spots to life, making the experience more than just sightseeing.

The panoramic viewpoints are genuinely striking. Reviewers like Rihab and Rita highlight the stunning landscapes and the knowledgeable guide, emphasizing how these moments leave a lasting impression. The quiet, untouched villages and the authentic Poncha tasting reinforce the feeling of discovering Madeira’s secret corners, away from tourist crowds.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Madeira North Offbeat Tour is ideal for travelers seeking authentic local experiences and scenic beauty. It’s perfect for those who enjoy small groups, personalized attention, and discovering hidden spots rather than packed tourist attractions. Nature lovers will appreciate the breathtaking vistas and peaceful villages.

However, if you prefer a fast-paced, highly structured itinerary or have mobility restrictions, this might not be the best fit. The relaxed pace and outdoor stops require a certain level of flexibility and comfort with uneven terrain or steep pathways.

The Sum Up: Why You’ll Love This Tour

This tour delivers a balanced mix of stunning scenery, cultural discovery, and intimate small-group vibes. The stops at viewpoints like Encumeada and Espigão showcase Madeira’s rugged beauty, while places like Boaventura and Ponta Delgada reveal the island’s quiet charm. The guide, Richard, elevates the experience with stories that bring history and local life to the forefront.

For travelers wanting a genuine feel of Madeira’s less-explored countryside, this tour offers incredible value for the price and a chance to create meaningful memories. If you appreciate authentic villages, panoramic vistas, and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, this adventure will likely be a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation from selected meeting points in Funchal, Caniço, or Lido is included. The tour uses a comfortable van suitable for the scenic mountain roads.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with various stops along the way. Starting times depend on your chosen pickup point.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers transportation, a local guide, one small bottle of water, a local drink (Poncha, beer, or soft drink), and a coffee. Insurance is also included.

Can I join if I don’t want to drink alcohol?
Absolutely. You can opt for a soft drink or beer, or simply enjoy the sightseeing without partaking in the drinks.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 12, mainly because of the terrain and the relaxed pace which might not be engaging enough for very young kids.

Are there any weather considerations?
Yes, Madeira’s weather can change unexpectedly. The tour is flexible, but certain stops might be canceled or altered for safety reasons, and the guide will inform you if that happens.

Where does the tour finish?
It ends back at your original meeting point, whether that’s in Funchal city center, Lido, or Caniço.

This Madeira North Offbeat Tour offers an authentic, scenic, and culturally enriching experience for those eager to see the island’s quieter, more beautiful side. With expert guides, stunning viewpoints, and charming villages, it’s a memorable way to connect with Madeira’s true spirit.