Curral das Freiras & Peaks 4WD Tour
From the bay of Funchal to the heights of Madeira's dramatic mountain interior
This Curral das Freiras 4WD tour takes you from a sweeping coastal panorama above Funchal to the rugged mountain peaks that define the heart of Madeira, all in a single half-day journey. Travelling by 4WD vehicle, the route opens up terrain and viewpoints that standard road trips rarely reach. The experience is rated easy, making it accessible to a wide range of travellers.
The tour begins at the Pico dos Barcelos viewpoint, perched 355 metres above sea level, where the full arc of Funchal bay and the city's terracotta rooftops unfold below. On clear days the Desertas Islands sit on the horizon, adding a sense of oceanic scale to the scene. From this vantage point the scale of Madeira's geography immediately becomes apparent.
The route then heads inland to Curral das Freiras, a parish set within a deep valley encircled by steep volcanic ridges. Known historically as Nun's Valley, this hollow in the mountains was used in the 15th century as a refuge by the nuns of the Convent of Santa Clara. Today the valley is known for its cherry and chestnut cultivation, and the compact village retains a quiet, unhurried character.
The final ascent climbs to Pico do Arieiro at 1,818 metres, Madeira's third highest peak, where the air is noticeably cooler and the light takes on an alpine quality. On a clear day the neighbouring island of Porto Santo is visible to the northeast. The Paredao viewpoint, passed en route, adds a further perspective over the reforested slopes surrounding Curral das Freiras.
Tour Highlights
Panoramic views over Funchal bay and the Desertas Islands from Pico dos Barcelos at 355 metres above sea level.
Discover Curral das Freiras, the historic Nun's Valley, surrounded by towering volcanic ridges and terraced orchards.
Reach Pico do Arieiro, Madeira's third highest peak at 1,818 metres, with views often above the cloud layer.
Stop at the Paredao viewpoint for an elevated perspective over the reforested interior valley landscape.
Travel by 4WD through Madeira's mountain roads, accessing viewpoints and terrain beyond standard touring routes.
Experience the atmospheric transition from coastal Funchal to the cool, cloud-level elevations of the central peaks.
Itinerary
The tour opens at this lookout point 355 metres above sea level, offering a broad panorama across Funchal, its bay, and the Desertas Islands in the distance. This is one of the most complete views of the island's capital available from any accessible vantage point.
Located 29 kilometres from Camara de Lobos, this parish sits in a deep valley enclosed by dramatic mountain walls. The slopes around the village are cultivated with cherry and chestnut trees, and the area carries a documented history stretching back to the 15th century.
Situated within the parish of Curral das Freiras, this viewpoint looks back over the valley from a higher elevation. The surrounding area was subject to extensive reforestation works that have shaped the current forested appearance of the hillsides.
At 1,818 metres, this is the culminating stop on the tour, where thin clear air and bright sunlight are characteristic even when clouds fill the valleys below. On days of good visibility, Porto Santo island can be seen approximately 30 miles to the northeast.
What Is Included
Included
- 4WD vehicle transport throughout the tour
- Professional local guide
- Stops at Pico dos Barcelos, Curral das Freiras, Paredao and Pico do Arieiro
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Funchal area
Not Included
- Personal travel insurance
- Food and beverages
- Gratuities for the guide
- Expenses of a personal nature
Important Information
Reserve Your Place on This Tour
Spaces on this small-group 4WD tour are limited. Secure your seat to explore Madeira's mountain interior from Funchal bay to the peaks above the clouds.
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