Discover Madeira in depth with our “Around the Island – Two Days Tour”, an unforgettable journey through the most beautiful villages, viewpoints, and landscapes on both the West and East sides of the island.
A unique experience that combines breathtaking scenery, history, culture, and authentic local charm.
Note: The order of the tours can be changed:
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Day 1: West + Day 2: East or Day 1: East + Day 2: West
DESCRIPTION OF ALL STOPS
WEST SIDE – Natural Pools & Picturesque Villages
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Cabo Girão: Our adventure begins at Cabo Girão, a spectacular glass-floored balcony rising 580m above sea level. Famous for being the highest cliff in Europe and the second highest in the world, the views over the ocean and terraced fields are simply breathtaking.
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Ribeira Brava: Following the scenic coastline, we reach the charming village of Ribeira Brava, where you can visit its 15th-century church and enjoy the local atmosphere.
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Madalena do Mar: A peaceful stop surrounded by lush green banana plantations, offering a glimpse into one of Madeira’s most traditional agricultural landscapes.
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Fonte do Bispo / Paúl da Serra: From an altitude of 1300–1500m, we arrive at the vast plateau of Paúl da Serra. Here begin several famous levada walks through the Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We pause at the Fonte do Bispo viewpoint to take in its sweeping vistas.
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Porto Moniz: A highlight of the day, Porto Moniz is home to Madeira’s largest volcanic natural pools. On the descent into the town, the panoramic views are spectacular. Weather permitting, bring your swimsuit for a refreshing dip. Lunch and free time are included here (approx. 1h30–2h).
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Seixal: A brief but memorable stop where we admire the stunning coastline and several waterfalls, including the iconic “Bridal Veil” cascade. Nature’s artistry carved into the cliffs is truly unforgettable.
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São Vicente: We continue to the picturesque village of São Vicente, nestled in a green valley. Here you can visit its beautiful 17th-century church before heading back south.
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Câmara de Lobos: Just 5 km from Funchal, our last stop is the traditional fishing village of Câmara de Lobos. This colourful bay inspired many artists, including Winston Churchill, who painted it during his stay in Madeira.
Main highlights – West Side:
Cabo Girão • Ribeira Brava • Madalena do Mar • Fonte do Bispo • Porto Moniz • Seixal (Bridal Veil) • São Vicente • Câmara de Lobos
EAST SIDE – Tradition, Culture & Panoramic Peaks
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Cristo Rei (Garajau): Located on the island’s east coast, the Christ the King statue stands proudly overlooking the Atlantic. The viewpoint offers a dramatic setting and one of Madeira’s most emblematic coastal landscapes.
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Machico: Once Madeira’s first capital (1440–1496), Machico is steeped in history. It was here that the first settlers landed in 1420. Today it remains the island’s second most populous city, combining heritage with a lively modern atmosphere.
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Ponta de São Lourenço: The island’s easternmost point, a protected nature reserve with a unique semi-arid landscape unlike anywhere else in Madeira. The dramatic cliffs and rock formations, together with sweeping views over the Atlantic, make this a photographer’s paradise.
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Porto da Cruz: A small coastal village where tradition lives on. Visit the historic Engenhos do Norte rum distillery, powered by original steam engines still in operation. A fascinating glimpse into Madeira’s sugarcane heritage.
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Santana: Famous for its colourful triangular thatched houses, Santana is one of Madeira’s most iconic villages. Surrounded by spectacular nature, it offers authentic culture and magical landscapes. Lunch and free time here (approx. 1h30–2h).
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Ribeiro Frio: A natural park set in a deep valley and embraced by mountains. Known for its trout pools and peaceful levada walks through the Laurissilva forest, it is also an excellent place to observe Madeira’s endemic birds, such as the bis-bis, the island’s smallest species.
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Pico do Arieiro: At 1818m, Pico do Arieiro is Madeira’s third highest peak. The views are extraordinary, with dramatic ridges and shifting clouds. On clear days, you can even see Porto Santo. Along the way, spot the historic “Poço da Neve,” once used to store ice and snow. Thanks to its easy access and awe-inspiring scenery, Pico do Arieiro is one of the most visited places on the island.
Main highlights – East Side:
Cristo Rei (Garajau) • Machico • Ponta de São Lourenço • Porto da Cruz (Rum Distillery) • Santana (lunch & free time) • Ribeiro Frio • Pico do Arieiro
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