Shore Excursions Group
Journey To East Madeira
Journey to East Madeira
Spend the day in Madeira, a popular tourist spot and island that is the emergent top of a volcano in the Atlantic Ocean. See the town of Funchal from the Christ-King statue and visit the village of Machico and Portela. Stop for lunch in Santana, sample rum in a sugar cane factory, and witness Ponta de Sao Lourenco from the port of Canical during this full-day tour.
The offroading excitement begins with a ride on an open-roof 4 x 4 or an open-roof minibus, up to the statue of Christ-King at the Ponta do Garajua viewpoint where you can savor birds-eye views of the town of Funchal below. On this bumpy ride, you will pass Funchal by a series of narrow streets and continue across cobblestone and forest-lined roads as you make your way toward the village of Machico and Portela.
Wind up the serpentine roads to reach the enchanted village of Santana with its many small, triangular, traditional thatched houses made out of natural stone. While up here, enjoy a sumptuous lunch amid stunning views. Stop at a sugar cane/rum factory to taste local brandy and Madeira firewater – a clear, white rum that contains 50% alcohol by volume.
Your journey will come to a close with a stop in Canical, the principal cargo port in Madeira. Observe the locals and a fantastic view of Ponta de Sao Lourenco, a breathtaking nature reserve on the Atlantic Ocean with volcanic rock formations.
Sign up now, grab your walking shoes and get ready to explore the beautiful archipelago islands of Madeira.
Please Note: Lunch is at your own expense.
| Day 1 |
Nestled on the sun-drenched southern coast of Madeira, Funchal, the island's capital, offers an enchanting mix of old-world charm, vibrant culture, and natural beauty. This picturesque city, set against a backdrop of rugged mountains and the deep blue Atlantic Ocean, is known for its lush botanical gardens, stunning vistas, and year-round mild climate. Stroll through the cobbled streets of the historic Old Town, Zona Velha, where colorful murals adorn the doors of traditional Madeiran houses, or visit the bustling Mercado dos Lavradores, a lively market where locals sell fresh produce, flowers, and handicrafts. The aromas of exotic fruits, spices, and fresh seafood will transport you into the heart of Madeira's unique culinary heritage. For a breathtaking view of Funchal, take the cable car from the Old Town up to the hilltop village of Monte. Here, you can explore the beautiful Monte Palace Tropical Garden, a verdant paradise filled with exotic plants, Koi ponds, and Asian-inspired sculptures. Don't miss the exhilarating toboggan ride down the winding streets of Monte – a traditional Madeiran experience where you’ll be whisked downhill in a wicker basket sled, guided by skilled carreiros. For those interested in history, the 15th-century Sé Cathedral, with its intricate wooden ceiling and striking Manueline-style architecture, offers a glimpse into Funchal's colonial past. Funchal is also renowned for its wine and its namesake Madeira wine, a fortified wine that has been produced on the island for centuries. Wine lovers can visit the Blandy’s Wine Lodge, the oldest winery in Madeira, to learn about the island's rich viticultural history and enjoy tastings of different styles of Madeira wine, from dry to sweet. Afterward, wander along the Avenida do Mar, a scenic promenade that runs along Funchal’s waterfront, where you can relax at one of the many cafes while watching yachts and cruise ships glide by. Fun fact: Funchal is known for its spectacular New Year's Eve fireworks display, which was recognized by the Guinness World Records in 2006 as the largest fireworks display in the world. Every year, the skies over Funchal Bay light up in a mesmerizing explosion of colors, attracting thousands of visitors to Madeira to celebrate the New Year in unforgettable style. |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
05/03/22 - 04/09/27 |
Starting At $132 |
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Guests must be able to step in an out of the vehicle. Participants must be 21 years old or older to consume alcohol. This tour is NOT wheelchair accessible.
