Things to do Madeira Island
Discover the best things to do in Madeira with guided tours that showcase the island’s top destinations. Explore the picturesque fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, known for its colorful boats and stunning sea views. Marvel at the breathtaking vistas from the glass skywalk at Cabo Girão, one of Europe’s highest sea cliffs. Take in the lush landscapes of the Nuns Valley, a secluded crater nestled in the heart of the island. Visit the iconic Christ the King statue, a towering monument reminiscent of the famous Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro. With knowledgeable guides and carefully curated itineraries, these tours provide an immersive experience of Madeira’s natural wonders and cultural landmarks. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, Madeira offers an array of unforgettable activities to suit every traveler’s taste. Book your guided tour today and embark on a journey through the best destinations this captivating island has to offer.
Nuns Valley view point
Embark on an unforgettable journey to the breathtaking Nuns Valley viewpoint, one of the top 10 things to do in Madeira. This guided tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, tailored to your unique needs and desires. As you wind your way up the mountainside, you’ll be treated to jaw-dropping panoramic vistas of the lush valley below, where nuns once sought refuge in this remote and tranquil haven. Your knowledgeable guide will regale you with fascinating stories and legends about the valley’s rich history and the nuns who called it home. You’ll have ample time to soak in the awe-inspiring views, snap photos, and simply bask in the serene beauty of this natural wonder. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply seeking an extraordinary experience, this guided tour to Nuns Valley viewpoint is an absolute must-do when visiting Madeira. Book now and prepare to be enchanted by the island’s most spectacular sight.
Curral das Freiras or The Valley of the Nuns got it’s name from the nuns who fled to the village to escape pirate attacks in 1566.
The village, which sits at an elevation of about 633 meters, is located in the heart of the island of Madeira, Portugal. Situated in a deep volcanic crater surrounded by towering mountains.
The village’s isolated and visually stunning setting has made it a popular stop for tourists exploring the island. While historically quite remote and sheltered from the outside world, infrastructure improvements in recent decades have made Nuns Valley more accessible and connected to the rest of Madeira.
- Agriculture is the primary economic activity, with locals growing chestnuts, vegetables, and fruit on the crater’s fertile floor and slopes. The microclimate in this secluded valley yields a longer growing season than other parts of the island. Several trout farms also operate in the valley, taking advantage of the pristine waters from mountain streams.
Câmara de Lobos
Nestled along the southern coast of the stunning island of Madeira lies the picturesque fishing village of Câmara de Lobos. This charming hamlet, located just a short drive from the island’s bustling capital city of Funchal, is a must-see destination for any traveler exploring the natural beauty and rich culture of Madeira. As you approach the village, you’ll be greeted by the sight of colorful fishing boats bobbing gently in the harbor, surrounded by towering cliffs that rise dramatically from the azure waters of the Atlantic. Take a stroll along the harbor’s edge and watch as local fishermen unload their daily catch, hauling in nets brimming with glistening fish that will soon make their way to the village’s many excellent seafood restaurants. For a taste of authentic Madeiran cuisine, be sure to sample the famous espada, a type of black scabbard fish that is grilled to perfection and often served with fried bananas and salad. After your meal, wander the narrow, winding streets of the village and take in the traditional architecture, with its whitewashed buildings and red-tiled roofs that seem to cling precariously to the steep hillsides. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the São Sebastião Chapel, a beautiful 16th-century church that offers stunning views over the harbor and the surrounding countryside. For those seeking a bit of adventure, Câmara de Lobos is also an excellent starting point for exploring the island’s rugged interior, with hiking trails that wind through lush forests and along towering sea cliffs, offering breathtaking vistas at every turn. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life, Câmara de Lobos is a destination that is sure to captivate and enchant you.
Câmara de Lobos is named after the monk seals (lobos marinhos) that once inhabited the area in large numbers.
- The village was the site where the first Portuguese explorers, led by João Gonçalves Zarco, landed on the island of Madeira in 1419.
- Câmara de Lobos is known for its colorful fishing boats called “xavelhas” that line the harbor. The boats are painted in bright primary colors which make for a very photogenic scene.
- The famous Madeira wine was first produced in Câmara de Lobos back in the 15th century. Today, wine production is still an important industry in the village.
- British Prime Minister Winston Churchill visited Câmara de Lobos in 1950 to paint the picturesque harbor. A statue of him painting now overlooks the village.
- Espetada, a traditional Portuguese dish consisting of chunks of beef rubbed in garlic and salt then skewered onto a bay leaf stick and grilled, originated in Câmara de Lobos.
- Every May, the village hosts a lively Fish Festival to promote its fishing industry. Visitors can sample fresh grilled fish and watch folklore dance performances.
- The narrow, winding streets of Câmara de Lobos are lined with quaint whitewashed houses with red-tiled roofs, many with colorful doors and window frames.
- Cabo Girão, Europe’s highest sea cliff at 589 meters (1,932 ft) tall, is located just to the west of Câmara de Lobos and provides a stunning backdrop to the village.
- Despite its small size, Câmara de Lobos has several historical churches worth visiting, including the 16th-century Igreja de São Sebastião with its white Baroque façade and the Capela de Nossa Senhora da Conceição, built on the site where Zarco originally landed.
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Câmara de Lobos (Fisherman's Village)
Câmara de Lobos (The fishing Village) – Translated to English means Chamber of sea lions and is located on the south-eastern side of Madeira. Câmara de Lobos is home to a critical historical legacy. In addition to its monuments and stunning Atlantic landscapes, the municipality stands out for its centuries-old fishing tradition. It was built around a long natural harbour which is created by the black basalt rock that contrasts magnificently with the turquoise waters.
What to expect on this Trike Adventure
This is a +- 30 min ride from Funchal –Discover the attractions of Funchal and the wonders of Câmara de Lobos. Travel along the coast, for spectacular ocean views. Sit back and relax on the way to the charming red-roofed town of Câmara de Lobos.
We take a ride out of town to the picturesque village of Câmara de Lobos, a favorite vacation spot of Winston Churchill. A great opportunity for you to take a memorable picture with Sir Winston, savouring this special memory.
There is time to enjoy a stroll around Câmara de Lobos and stop off at a local place, where you can taste a homemade Poncha (Drinks not included). It’s a beautiful traditional village with cobbled streets to explore, colorful fishing boats called (xavelhas), and a seaside promenade,
If time permits, we will head off to spectacular view points where there are fantastic opportunities to take more pictures, or perhaps a free wine tasting at one of the best reviewed cellars in Madeira.
We will then head back into Funchal and we will drop you off at your hotel.
View Point - Nuns Valley
View point of Nuns Valley – The “Nuns Valley” is a small village situated in the crater of an extinct volcano, which is the latest theory, or, as many still believe. Nestling between almost perpendicular mountains in the heart of the island. Eira do Serrado, is a viewpoint located 1094 metres above the parish of Curral das Freira (Valley of the Nuns) which will leave you with unforgettable memories of the breathtaking views.
This is a famous place with an interesting history. You’ll be amazed by the rugged peaks that surround it.
What to expect on this Trike Adventure
This is a +- 45 min ride from Funchal. We drive through the forest, with scents of eucalyptus and pine, an exhilarating open air experience on the back of the trike. awakening your senses, sight, smell and hearing. You have a consistent 360° view of the Chestnut trees,
Once parked there is a restaurant if you need the restroom or refreshments before we start our 10 minute walk.
We then proceeded to the viewpoint with a moderate incline to the top, where you will be mesmerised by the tranquillity and the almost untouched and wild nature. . Once we have reached the top, you will be blown away with magnificent views of the mountains and the valley.
Nuns Valley is one of the most beautiful places in Madeira. We climb up to 1089m.
There is an excellent viewing platform, where you are able to take photos, to keep this memory forever.
If you would not like to walk all the way to the top of the view point, we can stop at a lower viewpoint, if preferred, which is a 4 minute walk with a moderate incline.
If time allows we can also take a relaxing ride into Curral das Freiras, through the town as we make our way back to Funchal.
Additional Info Specific to this Tour
- This experience requires good weather
- Not wheelchair accessible
Cabo Girão - View Point
Cabo Girão is at 589 metres high and is a tourist lookout point. Cabo Girão is a lofty sea cliff located along the southern coast of the island of Madeira, and it is geographically part of Africa. The viewpoint, with the famous suspended glass platform — called “skywalk” — is currently one of the most visited tourist attractions in Madeira and offers incredible views of the Madeira coastline, Funchal and of Câmara de Lobos. The travel magazine Cond Nast Traveler chose Cabo Girão as the fifth viewpoint with the best view in the world. Offering visitors an unforgettable experience
What to expect on this Trike Adventure
This is about a 30 minute drive from Funchal, along the West Coast. On the way you have a magnificent view of Funchal and the Atlantic Ocean. We pass throughCâmara de Lobos.
Cabo Girão is on the south coast of Madeira and is the second highest cliff in Europe, with a glass-floor skywalk affording you panoramic views and provides an illusion of walking on air. On a clear day you would be able to see the Island of Desertas.
All of the vegetation that is grown below Cabo Girão is tropical fruit and when harvested, it is transported up by cable car , as this is the only means of transporting the produce from below.
The private beach below Cabo Girão cliff is accessible via the Teleferico do Rancho. The cable car station is about a 4km drive from the viewpoint and would need more time
Additional Info Specific to this Tour
- There is a entrance fee per person except for residents and children up to 12 years old
- There is a restaurant that serves traditional Madeiran dishes
- There is a gift shop
Cristo Rei (Christ the King statue)
The statue of Christ the King of Garajau was erected in honour of the Sagrado Coração de Jesus. It can be found at the viewpoint overlooking Ponta do Garajau, in the municipality of Santa Cruz.
The statue of Christ the King of Garajau was designed by the French sculptor Georges Serraz. It is a very imposing sculpture of Jesus Christ with his arms open and facing the Atlantic Ocean. It simulates the very famous Christ The Redeemer statue in Brazil, it is just not as high.
You have a lovely view of Funchal, particularly the Port of Funchal. This viewpoint is used by many people to watch the Fireworks Display on New Years Eve
What to expect on this Trike Adventure
This is about a 30 minute drive from Funchal. We ride along the coastal road, where you will be blown away by the breathtaking ocean views from the cliffs, surrounded by the serenity of this magnificent paradise. There are many opportunities along the way to capture unforgettable photos. Once we arrive at Cristo Rei, The coastline views are magnificent, with an impressive view into the Port of Funchal and glorious view of the Garajau beach. After being absorbed in the peace and tranquillity of your surroundings and the breathtaking views, we will make our way back to Funchal, we will drop you off at the same location you were picked up from.
Should you wish to go down to the Garajau Beach, cable cars are available to take you down. This beach is well known for its calm and clear waters and is located in the Garajau Partial Natural Reserve. There are various support facilities, such as toilets, changing rooms and a pleasant restaurant, where you are able to enjoy a meal. This part of the tour would need to be customised and would need more than 2 hours. Kindly chat to us for your tour customisation.