Madeira west coast tour with Cabo Girao and optional lunch in Porto Moniz

Madeira's magnificent scenery takes centre stage on this full day tour. You'll visit a selection of highlights including Cabo Girao Cliff and it's glass-floored platform, Porto Moniz and Paúl da Serra. Mariana, one of our expert local guides, says "you'll get to know the true drama of Madeira's landscapes. You might be lucky enough to see the ocean both to the north and the south, but the highest points on the island do sometimes catch the clouds."

Your first destination will be the Cabao Girao Cliff, where you can step out onto its glass-floored platform that stretches out over the edge. The coastal views here are some of the best around, so don't forget your camera. Mariana adds, "the cliff is around 580 metres high, making it one of the tallest in Europe. The views from the skywalk are really something else, and its experience that'll stick with you." Then, you'll head to the coastal town of Riberia Brava, before a stroll through a banana plantation in Madalena do Mar.

Next, we'll head up the 1,500m-high Paúl da Serra plateau before descending on Porto Moniz, famous for its natural lava rock swimming pools. A typical meal freshly prepared with local produce awaits in the village if you book the tour option that includes lunch. Rounding off the day is a poncha drink demonstration and tasting in Câmara de Lobos – a favourite holiday spot of Winston Churchill. Mariana says "be careful – poncha is so fruity and refreshing, but it hides a serious brandy kick."

The itinerary for this experience is...

- 8:35am to 9:15am – pick‑up at hotels in Caniço and Funchal

- 9:30am – stop and visit Cabo Girão viewpoint for around 30 minutes

- 10:20am – visit Ribeira Brava village for around 40 minutes

- 11:10am – stop at Madalena do Mar to walk through a banana farm estate

- 11:35am – depart in the direction of Paul da Serra plateau with a photo stop (weather permitting)

- 12:40pm – arrive at Porto Moniz for lunch at a local restaurant (if you book the tour option that includes lunch)

- 2:40pm – head to Câmara de Lobos village

- 3:20pm – arrive at Câmara de Lobos village and stop at a local bar

- 4:00pm – return to Funchal

- 4:30pm to 5:30pm – drop-off at hotels

Please note, the times and schedule may vary on the day and depending on weather conditions, the excursion may be done in reverse order, the guide will decide on the day of the tour.