West Side Wonders: A Fascinating Day Trip Through Madeira's North and South

From the terraced vineyards of the São Vicente river valley to the stunning Veu da Noiva waterfall and the lava-formed swimming pools of Porto Moniz, Madeira's remote north-west has some of the island's most remote and impressive natural landmarks.

Prepare to be enchanted by the mythical ancient laurel forest with twisted, contorted branches that seem plucked straight from a storybook fantasy. Fanal is a magical forest in the northern part of Madeira island.Often, but not always, there is a mysterious fog among the 600 year old trees, creating spectacular scenes.

Due to its size and quality, it is considered a very valuable relic of laurisilva, a type of laurel forest that was very abundant in the past and is now practically extinct. The magical forest is part of the Laurisilva forest which has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1999.

Then we will continue our trip to Achada da Cruz where one of the steepest cable cars in the world will transport us to o a world where time stands still...This cable car transports both local farmers and visitors from 450 m above sea level down a 98% incline to an uninhabited farming village. The experience itself is an exhilarating journey from the rugged coastal cliffs to the picturesque village below.

Heading toward the south-west coast of the island, our next stop will be Jardim do Mar or “Garden of the sea” is a small and secluded village, with about 300 inhabitants, in the western part of the island. Surrounded by the sea and hidden into the green mountains, this little village wraps you in its arms, filling your spirit with peacefulness and exultation.

Our next stop is Câmara do Lobos where vibrant fishing boats roam in the harbor, colorful houses line the streets and locals welcome visitors with open arms. 

Our last stop for the day is Cabo Girão Sky-walk (the highest cliff in Europe). The cliff rises to an astonishing height of approximately 580 meters above sea level.Standing on the glass skywalk at the edge of the cliff, visitors are treated to a dizzying view of the Atlantic Ocean and the lush green landscape below. It's an exhilarating experience for those who dare to walk on the transparent floor and witness the breathtaking panorama beneath their feet.

When you're ready, we'll make our way back, leaving you plenty of time to ask questions, take photos and make the most of this private experience.

Don't miss out - book your place now! Experience Madeira’s stunning beauty and rich culture on a Full Day Private Tour. Reserve your spot for a day of unforgettable thrills and spectacular sights! With a private guide who will give you tips on what to do and explore next, it's the perfect way to experience the very best of Madeira!

What to Bring:

- Clothing - Depending on the season, the weather in Madeira can vary greatly depending on the altitude and the different microclimates. In general, while it can be warm and sunny at sea level, temperatures can drop as you head up into the mountains. So don't forget to bring warm clothing, preferably layered for the cooler, misty areas!

- Comfortable walking shoes with good grip if you plan to walk in the Fanal Forest. It can be moist, muddy and very slippery. The weather here is very unpredictable. Paul da Serra Platou is at an altitude of 1600m, it can be either hot or much colder and humid, even in summer.

- Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat, especially in the summer months.

Full Day Tour - Itinerary

1. Viewpoint Veu da Noiva (the Bride's veil).
2. Seixal (natural black volcanic sand beach) - the best time to get there, to avoid the crowds, is in the morning.
3. Fanal forest and the 600 years laurel trees.
4. Porto Moniz (natural lava pools).
5. Achada da Cruz - The cost is 5 Euros/ person. In case of wind, the cable car will not function
6. Jardim do Mar - an idyllic and charming fishermen village only accessible by boat until 1960.
7. Câmara de Lobos - little fishermen enchanting village where Winston Churchill used to spend time and paint.
8. Cabo Girão (The highest sky-walk on a cliff in Europe).