The East 4x4 tour has a little bit of everything and is suitable for everyone!
The First stop is Pico Do Areiro, the 3rd highest peak on the island, 1811m above sea level.
There are usually very dramatic views and we tend to spend a fair amount of time up there.
After that, we venture to the North side of the island, into the more rural areas such as Ribeiro Frio and Faial where you can find hints of Laurissilva forest.
Next is Santana.
This is where you will find the traditional, authentic "A-Frame" houses you might have seen online or in guide books.
We will see lots of agricultural terraces, we will meet locals and we will have lunch at one of our partner restaurants.
(optional extra, not included in price and highly recommended)
After lunch we usually like to include some wine or rum tasting depending on the time we have and what the group is like.
It´s a great "first tour" for everybody who likes big views, culture, food and fun!
Inclusions & Exclusions
✔ Hotel Pick-up and drop off
✔ Short 45 minute levada walk (optional)
✔ Great introduction to the culture and history of the island
✔ Qualified fun, friendly and informative guide and driver
✔ Small group (6 passengers max)
✔ Relaxed, no "time schedule" attitude
✔ Comfortable, closed top Land Rover Discovery perfect for all weather conditions
✖ Food and drinks
✖ Pick up fees (outside of Funchal)
Pickup Locations
1. Hotel do Carmo
2. Pestana Vila Lido
3. Residencial Greco
4. Pestana Miramar
5. Hotel Windsor
6. Enotel Magnolia
7. Hotel Funchal
8. Pestana Casino Park
9. Pestana Gardens Ocean Aparthotel
10. Les Suites at The Cliff Bay
11. Travellers Pearl by Storytellers
12. Rocamar Hotel
13. Funchal Design Hotel
14. Vila Verde
15. Florasol Residence Hotel by Dorisol Hotels
16. Royal Savoy Hotel
17. Duas Torres
18. Allegro Madeira - Adults Only
19. Albatroz Beach & Yacht Club
20. Five Design Rooftop by Storytellers
Additional Info: We pick up free of charge all hotels and holiday rentals in the Funchal area.
Locations outside of Funchal may be subject to a pick up fee
We do not offer pick up services from the north side of the island.
Itinerary
1
Valley of the Nuns
The first stop of the tour is the not so famous but very beautiful Miradouro do Paradao. From this viewpoint you will see Funchal from above as well as the famous Nun´s Valley. It´s usually very quiet up here and very much "off the beaten path"
Duration: 20 minutes
2
Pico do Arieiro
Madeira´s third highest peak.
We try to arrive here early, before the crowds so we can best enjoy the amazing views, above the clouds hopefully!
We don´t like giving set times but usually spend somewhere around 30 to 45 minutes up here which is usually enough to get to see the best sights.
Duration: 30 minutes
3
Ribeiro Frio
Ribeiro Frio is well known for the rainbow trout farm. We drive by the large crowds and escape the tourist traps.
4
Santana
We make our way off-road and off the beaten path to Santana, one of Madeira´s most famous villages. Here we will see the traditional A-frame houses and stop at an authentic house to see how people use to live in this shantytown of Madeira. Next is Lunch at the famous Quinta do Furao restaurant with the best lunch in Santana, with great value and an incredible view!
Duration: 2 hours
5
Miradouro do guindaste
After lunch we stop at one of our favourite viewpoints on the North East of the island to see privileged views of the North East coast.
Duration: 15 minutes
6
Engenhos do Norte
A stop is in order at the the small village of Porto Da Cruz, well known for it´s history in sugar and rum. We make a stop at the famous rum factory and of course try some of the best rum in the world!
Duration: 30 minutes
7
Ponta de Sao Lourenco
Lastly we explore Ponta de Sao Lourenço, the most easterly peninsular on the island known for its magnificent volcanic rock formations and colours.
Duration: 30 minutes
8
Miradouro da Ponta do Rosto
The final stop on our east tour to see the peninsular in all it´s glory!
Duration: 10 minutes
Additional info
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
• Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
• Minimum age is 5 years
