Transport
The scenic route was stunning, through all sorts of weather and the commentary provided by the guide very interesting and informative. However, for us, the trip was too long with too many stops. The lunch was very disappointing (and we’re not fussy eaters) This was our third excursion of our 11 day holiday which fell short when compared with the previous two.
The knockout natural beauty of eastern Madeira is in the spotlight on this full day tour. You'll have your head in the clouds at Pico do Areeiro, walk next to cute, thatched houses in Santana, have lunch at Quinta do Furão and step back in time at Ponta de São Lourenço. Joana, one of our expert local guides, says, "The lunch spot is a real treat, sitting on top of the cliffs overlooking the dramatic coast of northern Madeira. Take some time to stroll in the gardens and vineyards, it's a special place."
You'll first be whisked up above the clouds to the towering Pico do Areeiro lookout point – offering amazing views from 1,810m above sea level. Next, we'll head for the mountainside gem of Santana, a village that's home to the distinctive straw-thatched houses famous throughout Madeira. Cute and colourful, these triangular homes look like something out of a fairytale. We'll have lunch here before being whisked off for more adventures.
On a visit to a traditional sugar cane processing mill in Porto da Cruz, you'll find out about an industry that has long been a mainstay of Madeira's economy. Joana says, "One of the most important crops on the island is sugarcane, and today the processing factory is still in full operation mainly producing rum and honey molasses as it has since 1927. We'll try some of their rum as part of our visit." The final stop will lead you to Ponta de São Lourenço, one of the wildest places in Madeira, right on the easternmost point of the island.