Funchal: Middle Madeira Valley And Mountains Private Tour
Monte, Madeira
Discover Madeira's middle mountains on a private tour from Funchal. Enjoy breathtaking views on the top of cloud, visit traditional villages, and savor authentic Madeiran Licor at a local restaurant.
This private guided tour explores Madeira’s central mountains, ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts based in Funchal.
Highlights
- Stand atop Pico do Arieiro, one of Madeira’s highest peaks
- Discover Curral das Freiras village, located in a dramatic valley
- Savor authentic Madeiran cuisine and local liqueurs at a restaurant
- Explore the Laurisilva forest and visit Ribeiro Frio’s famous trout farm
- Visit Monte Church or explore the Monte Palace Tropical Garden
Description
The tour starts with hotel pickup in Funchal before heading into Madeira’s central mountains.
Your first stop is Pico dos Barcelos, a viewpoint overlooking Funchal and the Atlantic Ocean, offering panoramic views of the coastline, harbor, and hills—ideal for photos.
Next, visit Eira do Serrado for a short walk to the viewpoint over Curral das Freiras (Nuns Valley), a village surrounded by steep mountains. Learn about its history as a refuge for nuns escaping pirate attacks.
Descend into Curral das Freiras village to explore its traditions and taste local chestnut products and liqueurs.
Continue to Miradouro do Paredão, another scenic viewpoint with expansive valley and mountain views. The drive features changing landscapes, forests, mountain roads, and occasional clouds drifting among peaks.
Reach Pico do Arieiro at 1,818 meters above sea level. From this high point, enjoy extensive mountain views and observe unique high-altitude vegetation and colorful flowers.
Stop for lunch at a local restaurant offering authentic Madeiran dishes and regional specialties recommended by your guide.
After lunch, head to Ribeiro Frio within the UNESCO-listed Laurisilva Forest. Walk the easy Vereda dos Balcões trail through ancient laurel forest to the Balcões viewpoint, showcasing panoramic views of valleys, peaks, and native bird species.
Before returning to Funchal, pause at Terreiro da Luta viewpoint to admire another view over the city, mountains, and ocean.
Relax on the scenic drive back to Funchal, completing your mountain and forest exploration.
Includes
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Live local tour guide
- Bottled water
- Scenic viewpoints and photo stops
- Local licor tasting
- Small local gift
- Access to all viewpoint locations
- Friendly and professional tour atmosphere
Excludes
- Lunch
- Additional food and drinks
- Pickup outside Funchal (may incur extra fee)
- Personal expenses
Important Information
- This is a private tour lasting approximately 7–8 hours with some walking; comfortable shoes are recommended.
- Weather in the mountains can change rapidly; bring appropriate clothing.
- The itinerary is flexible and may be adjusted due to weather or group pace.
- Your guide will confirm pickup time and location in advance.
- Pickups outside Funchal may incur an additional fee of €5–10.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
To prepare for this tour, bring comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
