West Madeira Tour: Cabo Girão, Paúl da Serra and Porto Moniz Natural Pools
From Europe's highest sea cliff to volcanic rock pools on the north coast — a full-day journey across Madeira's western landscapes.
This West Madeira Tour takes you through some of the island's most dramatic and varied scenery, covering coastal cliffs, highland plateaus, and natural lava pools in a single well-paced day. The route moves from the south coast fishing villages northward through the mountainous interior and along the rugged Atlantic shoreline. The difficulty level is easy, making it accessible for most travellers.
The journey begins in Câmara de Lobos, the picturesque fishing village that captured the attention of Sir Winston Churchill, who painted its harbour scene in 1950. From there, the route climbs to Cabo Girão, a viewpoint standing at 580 metres above sea level — the highest maritime cliff in Europe and the second highest in the world. The terraced vineyards clinging to the slopes below produce grapes used in the island's renowned Madeira Wine.
Heading inland, the tour ascends through Encumeadas at 1007 metres, where panoramic views stretch across both the southern coast and the island's forested interior. The vast plateau of Paúl da Serra, the largest on the island, provides a striking contrast to the steep coastal terrain encountered earlier in the day. The afternoon continues through Seixal, with its roadside waterfalls, before arriving at Porto Moniz and its celebrated natural lava pools on the north shore.
The final stop is the historic village of São Vicente, where the tour concludes before returning to Funchal. The full circuit covers the western half of Madeira in a logical, unhurried sequence that balances natural scenery with cultural context at each stop.
Tour Highlights
Stand on Cabo Girão, Europe's highest maritime cliff at 580 metres, with direct views down to the Atlantic coastline.
Swim or relax at Porto Moniz's natural volcanic rock pools, carved by ancient lava flows on Madeira's northwest coast.
Cross the plateau of Paúl da Serra, the largest elevated plateau on the island, often shrouded in low Atlantic cloud.
Visit Câmara de Lobos, the fishing village immortalised in a 1950 painting by Sir Winston Churchill during his stay in Madeira.
Pass through Encumeadas at 1007 metres, a mountain viewpoint offering sweeping views over Madeira's southern and northern slopes.
Drive alongside small waterfalls near Seixal on the north coast, where the road hugs volcanic cliffs above the sea.
Explore São Vicente, a traditional village on the north coast, as the final cultural stop before returning to Funchal.
Itinerary Overview
The tour starts in Câmara de Lobos, a working fishing village known for its colourful boats and the historical connection to Winston Churchill. From here, the route continues to Cabo Girão, where a glass-floored viewing platform sits at 580 metres above the Atlantic — Europe's highest maritime cliff.
Travelling along the south coast, the tour reaches Ribeira Brava, a small coastal town set at the mouth of a deep valley. The route then ascends inland to the Encumeadas viewpoint at 1007 metres, offering panoramic views across the island from a mountain pass.
The itinerary crosses the Paúl da Serra, a broad, elevated plateau that forms the geographic heart of western Madeira. The landscape here is markedly different from the coastline — open, windswept, and dotted with low vegetation and occasional cattle.
A stop in Porto Moniz provides time to visit the natural volcanic rock pools on the north coast, a well-known feature of the island. The pools are formed by ancient lava flows and are filled by the Atlantic Ocean, offering a unique setting for a rest and snack break.
Heading east along the north coast, the route passes through Seixal, where small waterfalls run directly alongside the road through volcanic tunnels and dramatic cliff scenery. This stretch of coastline is considered one of the most visually striking drives on the island.
The day concludes with a visit to São Vicente, a traditional village sheltered in a narrow valley on the north coast. After exploring the village, the group returns to Funchal, completing the full western circuit of the island.
What Is Included
Included
- Professional licensed guide throughout the tour
- Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Funchal area
- Snack stop at Porto Moniz
Not Included
- Meals and beverages beyond the snack stop
- Entry fees to optional attractions
- Personal travel insurance
- Gratuities for the guide or driver
Important Information
Reserve Your Place on the West Madeira Tour
This full-day circuit covers the most iconic stops on Madeira's western route — from Churchill's favourite fishing village to volcanic pools on the north coast. Spaces are limited, so secure your seat in advance.
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