EAST TOUR

Discover the Essence of Madeira’s East Coast

Embark on an unforgettable journey along Madeira’s captivating East Coast, where history, culture, nature, and tradition come together in perfect harmony.

This scenic route takes you through some of the island’s most iconic and authentic places, from historic towns and emblematic landmarks to breathtaking viewpoints, protected natural landscapes, and charming villages full of character. Each stop reveals a different side of Madeira’s unique beauty and rich heritage.

Along the way, you will admire spectacular coastal and mountain scenery, explore areas of remarkable natural value, discover the island’s deep connection to sugarcane traditions, and visit the world-famous thatched houses of Santana, one of Madeira’s most treasured symbols.

With every kilometre, a new landscape unfolds before your eyes, creating a memorable experience filled with discovery, authenticity, and unforgettable moments.

Description of All Stops

• Cristo Rei in Garajau: Located in one of the most striking viewpoints on the island, the Cristo Rei statue is one of the most emblematic landmarks on Madeira’s east coast. Overlooking the Atlantic, it offers visitors a unique setting where history, faith, and landscape meet in perfect harmony.
• Machico: A historic town and the second most populated on the island. Nestled on the eastern coast, it holds great significance as the first settlement of Madeira in 1420 and even served as the island’s capital between 1440 and 1496, under the captaincy of Tristão Vaz Teixeira. Today, its bay, promenade, and rich history continue to enchant all who visit.
• Ponta de São Lourenço (Ponta do Rosto): The easternmost tip of Madeira, this protected nature reserve is famous for its volcanic rock formations, dramatic cliffs, and sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. Its semi-arid scenery contrasts strongly with the rest of the island, making it a one-of-a-kind landscape and an unforgettable stop.
• Porto da Cruz: This small, picturesque village on the northeast coast is home to Madeira’s rum-making tradition. The Engenhos do Norte distillery still uses original steam engines, lovingly preserved and kept operational. Visitors are welcome to explore the facility, where sugarcane and history intertwine in a truly authentic atmosphere.
• Santana: Santana is renowned for its traditional triangular thatched houses, brightly painted and dating back to the 16th century. Today, these houses are preserved as cultural icons, attracting visitors from around the world. The region itself is considered one of the most enchanting parts of Madeira, offering breathtaking mountain views and a sense of timeless charm. Here, we will enjoy a lunch break and free time (around 1h30).
• Ribeiro Frio: Set in a lush valley surrounded by mountains, Ribeiro Frio is a natural park known for its trout pools, fresh mountain air, and scenic levada trails. This is an ideal place for a peaceful stroll while observing native flora such as laurel trees and unique bird species including the Madeiran wood pigeon, chaffinch, and the tiny bis-bis, the island’s smallest bird.
• Pico do Arieiro: At 1,818 meters, Pico do Arieiro is Madeira’s third-highest peak and one of its most visited attractions. From here, the views are simply spectacular, on clear days you can see as far as Curral das Freiras and even Porto Santo. Along the way, you will pass by the historic Poço da Neve, once used to store ice and snow from the mountains. Today, Pico do Arieiro is not only famous for its vistas but also as the starting point of hiking trails leading to Pico das Torres and the island’s highest summit, Pico Ruivo.

• Please note that pick-ups are available within Funchal city centre and the main tourist hotel area
  Some areas, including pedestrian zones, historic streets in Funchal, and locations with restricted access for the type of transport we use, may not be suitable for direct pick-up
  If your accommodation is located outside our pick-up area or in a restricted-access zone, please provide us with your full accommodation address so that we can direct you to the nearest available meeting point in Funchal
• Our activities are usually operated in groups of around 16 participants. However, during peak seasons, the type of transport may be adjusted and the number of participants per group may increase, depending on availability and logistical requirements