Best Seller4.6·Funchal, Madeira·8h
Tour to West Madeira
On this day you will discover several natural wonders, as well as surprising landscapes.
From€40.00
per person
1 / 10The best of SouthWest - open top roof 4x4 experience
(5)
Funchal, Madeira, PortugalDay Trips & ExcursionsBus & Minivan ToursATV & Quad ToursLuxurySafari & Wildlife
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About this activity
Experience Madeira's untamed southwest coastline in an open-top 4x4, traversing volcanic terrain, terraced valleys, and windswept plateaus from Ponta do Sol to Madalena do Mar. This 8-hour journey combines dramatic coastal drives, authentic fishing villages, and a visit to a local distillery showcasing the island's heritage spirits.
Get ready for an explosive 4x4 jeep adventure to the Southwest in Madeira! We’ll wind along dramatic coastal roads and volcanic landscapes, passing lush banana and sugar cane plantations—two pillars of the island’s economy that fields that built the island's economy for centuries, still fueling today's artisanal spirits industry! At a local distillery, you’ll taste handcrafted gin, rum and liqueurs that capture the true flavour of Madeira.
starting in sun-drenched Ponta do Sol, climbing through the terraced landscapes of Canhas, crossing the mystical high plateau of Paul da Serra, standing on the dramatic cliffs of Ponta do Pargo at the island’s wild westernmost point crowned by its iconic lighthouse, winding down to rugged Fajã da Ovelha, soaking in the authentic fishing and surf vibes of Paul do Mar and Jardim do Mar, unwinding on the golden sands and lively marina of Calheta, and ending among the emerald banana plantations and ocean views of Madalena do Mar
starting in sun-drenched Ponta do Sol, climbing through the terraced landscapes of Canhas, crossing the mystical high plateau of Paul da Serra, standing on the dramatic cliffs of Ponta do Pargo at the island’s wild westernmost point crowned by its iconic lighthouse, winding down to rugged Fajã da Ovelha, soaking in the authentic fishing and surf vibes of Paul do Mar and Jardim do Mar, unwinding on the golden sands and lively marina of Calheta, and ending among the emerald banana plantations and ocean views of Madalena do Mar
Highlights
- ✓Open-top 4x4 drive along winding coastal roads with panoramic Atlantic views
- ✓Paul da Serra high plateau crossing with misty, otherworldly landscapes
- ✓Ponta do Pargo lighthouse—Madeira's westernmost point with sheer cliff drama
- ✓Local distillery tasting of artisanal gin, rum, and liqueurs
- ✓Authentic villages: Fajã da Ovelha, Paul do Mar, and Jardim do Mar with fishing and surf culture
- ✓Terraced banana and sugar cane plantations that shaped island history
Insider tips
- ★The plateau can be misty even on sunny days—bring a light layer; views clear dramatically as you descend to coastal villages
- ★Paul do Mar and Jardim do Mar are best visited mid-morning before fishing boats return; time your photos accordingly
- ★Ask the driver about local spirit production methods—distillery staff often share stories unavailable in guidebooks
- ★The golden sands of Calheta are calmer than exposed northwest beaches; ideal for a refreshing dip if time allows
Good to know
- •Full day excursion (8 hours); bring sun protection, water, and comfortable hiking shoes for village exploration
- •Open-top vehicle means full sun exposure and wind—secure loose items and consider a windproof layer for the plateau
- •Distillery tasting included; notify operator of dietary restrictions or alcohol sensitivities in advance
- •Narrow mountain roads with switchbacks; not suitable for those with motion sensitivity—ask about front-seat availability
- •Shore excursion option available for cruise passengers; confirm pickup/drop-off times when booking
Who it's for
Adventure seekers and outdoor photographers wanting dramatic landscapes beyond typical resort toursCruise passengers seeking a full-day excursion covering diverse Madeiran terrain and cultureSpirits enthusiasts interested in small-batch distillery production and regional food heritageTravellers comfortable with winding mountain roads and open-air vehicles
Best time to visit
Visit in late spring (May–June) or autumn (September–October) for clear skies, calm seas, and comfortable driving conditions. Avoid winter months when the plateau fog persists longer and coastal roads can be slippery; midday departures maximize sunlight across all stops.
Frequently asked questions
Available
From€69
per person
