Your Guide to the Skywalk, Porto Moniz Volcanic Pools and Fanal Tour in Funchal, Madeira

Planning a visit to Madeira for a holiday and want to discover the best attractions? In this comprehensive guide we’ll break down everything that you need to know about the three most popular tourist activities on the island – the Skywalk, Porto Moniz Volcanic Pools, and Fanal Tour in Funchal.

What is the Skywalk in Madeira?

The Skywalk is an adrenaline-pumping, high-ropes obstacle course, located on Cabo Girão, high on a cliff near Funchal. This thrilling attractions is not for the faint of heart! It is the highest of its kind in Europe and requires visitors to be brave enough to cross between platforms suspended in mid-air at over 500m (1,640ft) above sea level! The course features a range of obstacles including rope courses, zip lines and more, with some weak of heart having difficulty after even the first few steps!

The Magnificent Porto Moniz Volcanic Pool

Another must-see destination when visiting Madeira is the beautiful Porto Moniz Volcanic Pool. This natural wonder allows visitors to experience a one-of-a-kind swimming experience in aquamarine waters. Located in the northern part of Madeira Island along with Atlantic Ocean, Porto Moniz is known for its natural volcanic rock pools. It’s a great place to explore the unique flora & fauna of the area, enjoy a swim or relax on the rocks; accessing the pool is extremely straightforward with several car parks located at the entrance that make it easy to access. This iconic attraction has been around since the 19th century and boasts a spectacular backdrop of steep mountains and sparkling blue ocean. The waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, but there are also lots of other activities to take part in such as jet skiing, kayaking and more.

Explore Nature’s Beauty with the Fanal Tour in Funchal

The Fanal Tour is a popular activity among tourists visiting the Funchal area of Madeira. The tour takes you on a guided hike through the lush Fanal Forest and its beautiful surroundings. Led by experienced tour guides, you will be taken on a journey that shows you the unique wildlife, plants and sights this area has to offer. The Fanal Tour includes visits to viewpoint areas like Pico do Ranario; an area composed of incredible foliage and endowed with an authentic beauty that reinforces why visitors fall in love with this part of the world. You will also witness some dramatic natural formations like the splendid vertical walls at Vereda de Fanal or impressive cascades featuring stunning waterfalls that plunge into crystal water basins surrounded by natural granite slabs.

Conclusion

The attractions discussed in this article are just three of the many wonders to discover on Madeira Island. The Skywalk, Porto Moniz Volcanic Pools, and Fanal Tour in Funchal are all excellent activities for families, solo travelers and groups alike. If you’re looking to explore Madeira’s attractions in style and comfort, why not consider booking a tour with GetYourGuide? From boat trips and sightseeing tours to activities such as zip lining and paragliding, GetYourGuide offers a range of exciting experiences and activities across the island. You can check out all of their options here and leave your holiday to Madeira feeling truly inspired.

Your Insider’s Guide to Funchal, Madeira: Exploring the Skywalk, Porto Moniz Volcanic Pools, and Fanal Tour

If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable travel experience, Funchal in Madeira should be on your list. Madeira is an archipelago in Portugal and Funchal is its capital city. Funchal is known for its abundant flora, mild climate and laid-back atmosphere. Here’s everything you need to know to plan the ultimate Funchal adventure.

Local Attractions in Funchal

Skywalk

One of the top attractions in Funchal is the Skywalk, or Cabo Girao. It’s the highest cliff skywalk in Europe, located about 18 kilometers from the city center. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and Madeira’s coastline. The skywalk is 580 meters high, and if you’re feeling brave, you can walk on the glass floor to get a unique perspective.

Porto Moniz Volcanic Pools

Located in the northwest of Madeira island, Porto Moniz is known for its natural volcanic pools. These tidal pools are formed from solidified lava flows, creating a scenic bathing area. They’re perfect for swimming, relaxing, and taking in the stunning view of the ocean. The pools are open all year round, and there’s an entry fee of around €1.50.

Fanal Tour

For those looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, the Fanal Tour is a must-visit destination. This natural park is a mountainous area, located in Ribeira da Janela. Explore the ancient laurel forest, and you’ll come across Fanal’s enchanted forest. You’ll find yourself surrounded by large, old trees which give this place a mystical aura.

Cultural Experiences in Funchal

Take a traditional toboggan ride

One of the most traditional things to do in Funchal is to take a toboggan ride from Monte to Livramento. You’ll slide down on a wicker toboggan, controlled by two “carreiros” in traditional white outfits and straw hats. This experience dates back to the late 19th century, and it’s a thrilling way to explore Funchal’s historic streets.

Madeira Wine Tasting

Madeira Island is famous for its sweet fortified wine, also known as Madeira wine. Take a short tour around the islands and visit the wine lodges where you’ll learn about the wine-making process, experience custom tastings, and learn about the different styles of Madeira wines. Some of the popular wine lodges include Blandy’s Wine Lodge and Madeira Wine Company.

Local Festivals

Funchal is known for its year-round festivals. Some of the most popular festivals include Madeira Flower Festival, Funchal Jazz Festival, and Madeira Carnival. The Madeira Flower Festival runs in late April/mid-May, where streets of Funchal are decorated with floral arrangements, music concerts, and a parade. Funchal Jazz Festival is a 10-day event in July, hosting jazz musicians from all around the world. The Madeira Carnival is an annual event held in February where locals dress in flamboyant costumes, parade through the streets, and dance the night away.

Culinary Delights in Funchal

Bolo de Caco

Bolo de Caco is a traditional Madeiran bread that’s usually accompanied by garlic butter. It’s a local delicacy and is worth trying while you’re in Funchal. You’ll find it in markets, and it’s served in many local restaurants.

Espetada

Espetada is a traditional skewered beef dish, marinated in garlic and salt and grilled with bay leaf. It’s usually served with fries and salad on the side. You can find it everywhere in Funchal, and it’s often served in small, cozy restaurants, giving you a chance to mingle with the locals.

Bolo de Mel

Another iconic dessert in Madeira, Bolo de Mel, is a sweet, traditional cake made with honey, nuts, and candied fruits. You’ll find these cakes in most souvenir shops and markets.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions in Funchal

The Levada Walks

Explore the hidden sides of Madeira by going on one of the iconic Levada walks. These are hiking trails along the levadas, which are ancient irrigation channels built into the hillsides. The levadas have scenic routes, and you can gather more than stunning views while walking along them.

Câmara de Lobos

Visit Câmara de Lobos, a fishing village located five kilometers away from Funchal. The village is famous for its colorful fishing boats and is the exact location that inspired the famous painter Winston Churchill.

Pico da Urzelina

Pico da Urzelina is one of the highest peaks in Madeira, and it’s an off-the-beaten-path destination for hiking enthusiasts. It offers spectacular panoramic views of the hills and valleys of Madeira.

Now that you have insider knowledge, we hope you enjoy exploring Funchal and everything it has to offer. No matter if you’re into culinary delights, cultural experiences, or outdoor activities, you’ll find it all in Funchal.