MADEIRA TOUR- SANTANA EAST TOUR STRAW THATCHED ROOFED HOUSES

Madeira



Explore the charming Santana tour, featuring picturesque thatched-roof houses set against Madeira's lush northeastern landscapes. Dive into the area's rich culture and natural beauty.

This full-day tour in Madeira suits travellers interested in culture, nature, and traditional villages, featuring Santana, Pico do Areeiro, and Ponta de São Lourenço.

Highlights

  • Visit the traditional Santana A-framed thatched houses.
  • Panoramic views from Pico do Areeiro.
  • Scenic finale at Ponta de São Lourenço.
  • Porto da Cruz Rum Factory visit with degustation.
  • Ribeiro Frio with an optional walk in the UNESCO World Heritage Laurel Forest.

Description

Begin with panoramic views at Pico do Areeiro, Madeira’s third highest peak. Next, visit Ribeiro Frio, where you can optionally take a 45-minute walk through the Laurel Forest (PR11 trail). Note that reservations and online payment for this walk are required in advance at simplifica.madeira.gov.pt between 10:30 and 11:00 to secure a slot.

Continue to Santana to explore its distinctive traditional A-framed thatched houses, followed by a local lunch. Afterward, visit Faial for additional scenic views before heading to Porto da Cruz for a rum factory tour and tasting. The tour concludes at Miradouro do Rosto in Ponta de São Lourenço, known for its rugged landscapes.

Includes

  • Expert local guide
  • Comfortable transportation throughout the tour
  • Visit to Santana’s traditional thatched houses
  • Comprehensive travel insurance

Excludes

  • Meals and beverages
  • Fee for the Laurel Forest walk in Ribeiro Frio (€4.50 per person)
  • Pickup surcharge: Câmara de Lobos, Santa Cruz, Machico – €10 per person
  • Pickup surcharge: Ponta do Sol, Ribeira Brava – €20 per person
  • Pickup surcharge: Calheta – €40 per person

Important Information

  • The tour duration includes pickups, the full itinerary, and drop-offs.
  • Advance booking and online payment at simplifica.madeira.gov.pt is mandatory for the Laurel Forest walk (PR11), scheduled between 10:30 and 11:00.
  • The Laurel Forest walk is easy and lasts approximately 45 minutes; wear comfortable shoes and bring a jacket.
  • Itinerary order may be adjusted for weather conditions or to improve the guest experience.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours before the tour start for a full refund.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes visits to traditional Santana thatched houses, panoramic views from Pico do Areeiro, a stop at Porto da Cruz Rum Factory with tasting, Ribeiro Frio with an optional laurel forest walk, and a scenic finale at Ponta de São Lourenço.
The traditional thatched houses are in Santana, a region on the northeast coast of Madeira, known for its distinctive triangular roofed homes.
Pico do Areeiro is Madeira's third highest peak, standing at 1,818 meters above sea level.
Yes, there is an optional 45-minute walk through the Laurel Forest at Ribeiro Frio during the tour.
Yes, the tour includes a visit to the Porto da Cruz Rum Factory with a tasting session.
The tour is available year-round, but check the tour provider's website for current schedules and weather considerations.
No prior hiking experience is necessary, as the optional walk at Ribeiro Frio is moderate and suitable for most fitness levels.
The tour concludes with a scenic visit to Ponta de São Lourenço, located on the easternmost point of Madeira island.
The tour is a full-day experience, typically lasting around 7 to 9 hours depending on stops and pace.
Yes, transportation between tour locations is included, usually via a comfortable coach or minivan.

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