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Madeira: Best of the East Tour from Funchal – How to Plan Your Trip

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Madeira: Best of the East Tour from Funchal – How to Plan Your Trip

Madeira is a stunning island destination, filled with natural wonders and breathtaking landscapes. One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Madeira is through the Best of the East Tour from Funchal. This day trip takes you through some of the most picturesque locations in the eastern part of the island. In this blog post, we will guide you through planning your own Best of the East Tour.

Experience

The Best of the East Tour from Funchal offers a full-day experience of the diverse landscapes that Madeira has to offer. You will travel through charming towns, verdant forests, and stunning coastal areas. Your expert guide will provide you with insights into the history, culture, and geography of the region.

Highlights

Throughout the tour, you will get to experience some of the most incredible sights in the eastern part of Madeira. Some of the highlights of the tour include:

– Pico do Arieiro: At 1818 meters high, this is the third-highest peak in Madeira, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

– Santana: This charming town is known for its small triangular houses that are made of thatched roofs.

– Ponta de São Lourenço: One of the most picturesque coastal areas on the island, this is a great place to enjoy a scenic walk.

Full Description

The Best of the East Tour starts with a pick-up from your hotel in Funchal or a meeting point at Funchal’s Lido. From there, you will head to the viewpoint of Terreiro da Luta, located a few kilometers outside Funchal. This is a great spot to snap some photos of the breathtaking views.

After that, you will drive towards the mountain of Pico do Arieiro. The drive takes you through winding roads, through the lush forests, and up to the top of the third-highest peak on the island. You can expect to be blown away by the panoramic views of the island from the top.

Next, you will head down the mountain and towards the coast, passing charming small towns along the way. Your next stop is Santana, where you can explore the small triangular houses that are a unique feature of the town.

The tour continues towards the easternmost point of Madeira, Ponta de São Lourenço. This stunning coastal area is known for its rocky cliffs, turquoise waters, and unique flora and fauna. You can take a leisurely walk along the trails and enjoy the picturesque scenery.

Finally, the tour concludes with a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, where you can try some of the traditional cuisine of Madeira.

How to Plan Your Tour

Planning your Best of the East Tour from Funchal is simple. The first step is to book your tour through GetYourGuide. The link to book the tour is: book the tour here.

The tour is offered daily, and there are several departure times throughout the day. You can choose a convenient time that works best for you.

The tour includes a free pick-up and drop off at hotels in the Funchal area. All taxes and fuel surcharges are also included, so there are no hidden fees. Lunch is also provided, so you don’t have to worry about finding a place to eat during the day.

When planning your tour, make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sunscreen, a hat, and a camera to capture the stunning views.

Conclusion

The Best of the East Tour from Funchal is the perfect way to experience the natural beauty and unique culture of Madeira. With its scenic drives, charming towns, and coastal areas, this tour takes you through the undiscovered eastern part of Madeira. By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can easily plan your own tour and create unforgettable memories on this stunning island destination.

The Insider’s Guide to Madeira: Unforgettable Experiences Beyond Tourist Hotspots

Madeira is an island paradise that is often overlooked by tourists seeking more popular destinations for their vacations. However, this Portuguese island offers an incredible array of captivating experiences beyond the typical tourist spots. Here’s an insider’s guide to discovering the real Madeira and creating unforgettable memories.

Hidden Gems: Discovering the Best Local Attractions

While Madeira has plenty of popular tourist attractions, there are several lesser-known spots that are well worth a visit. One of such places is the Hillside Chapel in Referta, a picturesque spot that offers a stunning panoramic view of the island. Another hidden gem is Porto Da Cruz, a charming seaside village that boasts natural rocky swimming pools and stunning ocean views.

If you’re looking for some adventure, head to the Rabaçal hiking trail, an off-the-beaten-path trail in the heart of Madeira that boasts dramatic waterfalls, emerald-green valleys and stunning nature.

Cuisine Culture: Savoring the Flavors of Madeira Island

Madeira cuisine is a blend of African, Portuguese, and Mediterranean influences, resulting in a unique and flavorful gastronomy culture. To savor the true taste of Madeira, you should try the Espada, a traditional fish dish that is seasoned with garlic and served with passion fruit sauce.

Another specialty is Bolo do Caco, a delicious bread that is made from wheat flour, sweet potato, and garlic butter, served with black peas or tuna fish.

If you’re looking for an open-air food experience, head to the Mercado dos Lavradores, a historic market hall in Funchal, where you’ll find a vast selection of fresh produce, spices, and Madeira wine.

Cultural Experiences: Embracing the Island’s Traditions

Madeira Island is known for its vibrant festivals, music, art, and cultural traditions. One of the most famous is the Festa da Flor (Flower Festival) that happens every spring. The festival celebrates the island’s exotic flowers, with colorful parades, live music, and dancing. Another exciting event is the Carnaval, a week-long celebration leading up to Ash Wednesday. Carnaval is a time to party, with music, costumes, and dancing.

Madeira is also famous for its wine culture. Go on a wine tour and indulge in the local flavors. Visit the centuries-old wine cellars and learn about the island’s wine-making traditions.

Local History: Stories that Bring Madeira’s Past to Life

Madeira’s long and rich history is full of captivating stories. Visit the Museu Casa da Luz and learn about the island’s history of electricity. Explore the Forte de Sao Tiago, and discover the island’s military history, and don’t forget to check out some of the island’s stunning sculpture gardens.

Another interesting place to visit is the Capela dos Ossos. The chapel is located in the heart of Funchal and features a macabre interior, with the walls and ceilings adorned with human skulls and bones from the 16th century.

Off-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Creating Unforgettable Memories

For a breathtaking view of Madeira Island, take a cable car ride from Funchal to the charming village of Monte. Once you’re there, take a ride in a traditional wicker basket sled back down to the city.

Take a boat trip on the Ribeira da Janela and witness the stunning landscape of Madeira’s rock formations and crystal-clear waters. If you’re interested in outdoor pursuits, give canyoning a go and dive into Madeira’s breathtaking ravines.

Experience the natural thermal waters of Porto Moniz, where you can relax and unwind in the warm waters while enjoying the stunning views.

Final Thoughts

Madeira is a paradise, filled with exciting experiences that will leave a lasting impression. Escape the crowds and discover the best of Madeira’s local attractions, cuisine, culture, history, and unique experiences. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or looking for a relaxed island getaway, Madeira has something for everyone.

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Madeira: Best of the East Tour from Funchal – How to Plan Your Trip

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!