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Island Tour: West Side Landscapes & Beaches
5.0
4 Ratings
Madeira Islands
We are a small company that provides personalized services. This tour will give you a comprehensive view of the island’s west side, showcasing its landscapes, monuments, and some of its finest beaches.
We are a small company that provides personalized services. This tour will give you a comprehensive view of the island’s west side, showcasing its landscapes, monuments, and some of its finest beaches.
Duration:
8 hours
Cancellation:
24 hours
Highlights
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Miradouro do Cristo Rei do Garajau - Situated in one of Madeira’s most remarkable locations, the Christ the King of Garajau statue is a prominent landmark on the island’s east coast. It is a must-see attraction, enchanting visitors with its stunning landscape.
The statue was erected in honor of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and is located at the…
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Miradouro do Cristo Rei do Garajau - Situated in one of Madeira’s most remarkable locations, the Christ the King of Garajau statue is a prominent landmark on the island’s east coast. It is a must-see attraction, enchanting visitors with its stunning landscape.
The statue was erected in honor of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and is located at the viewpoint overlooking Ponta do Garajau in Santa Cruz. It was funded and constructed by Aires de Ornelas, the son of the last lord of Caniço, and was inaugurated on October 30, 1927. On the same day, the road connecting Cancela to the monument was also opened. -
Pico do Facho Viewpoint - Overlooking the Machico valley, the Pico do Facho Viewpoint offers visitors a breathtaking panoramic view. It is one of the best spots to admire Madeira’s east coast.
This viewpoint is located on a path that ascends to the summit of Pico do Facho before reaching the Caniçal tunnel. Historically significant, large bonfires were once lit here to warn the population of approaching enemy ships. -
Ponta de Sao Lourenco - This 3 km trail (plus 3 km return) invites you to explore the eastern tip of the island, offering panoramic views of both the north and south sides. With medium difficulty and an estimated duration of 2h30, the PR 8 Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço runs along the peninsula of the same name.
Despite its undulating nature, the well-maintained Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço provides a delightful walking experience. The peninsula is of volcanic origin, primarily basalt, with some limestone sediment formations. Along the way, there are two islets: Ilhéu do Desembarcadouro and Ilhéu do Farol. - Miradouro do Guindaste - Positioned on one of the slopes at the mouth of Ribeira do Faial in Santana, the Guindaste viewpoint offers a breathtaking view of Madeira’s north coast. It is the perfect spot to appreciate the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean surrounding the island.
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Santana - The “little houses of Santana” are nationally and internationally recognized for their unique architectural beauty. With a triangular shape and thatched roofs, they are the most iconic symbol of this municipality on Madeira’s north coast.
These traditional houses reflect the area’s historical isolation, which made access by land and sea challenging for a long time. The preservation of these unique cultural traits has become a valuable heritage for the municipality, which currently has around 8,800 residents. -
Arco de Sao Jorge - The distinctive features of Madeira’s north coast are evident in its beaches and bathing complexes, where lush green mountains descend to the sea.
The Calhau de São Jorge Bathing Complex in Santana is located at the mouth of the São Jorge river and features a small beach. Here, visitors can enjoy stunning scenery while engaging in typical beach activities. -
Machico - To understand the origins of human settlement in Madeira, one must delve into Machico’s history. It was here that Gonçalves Zarco and Tristão Vaz Teixeira landed in July 1419, marking the island’s discovery. This makes the municipality particularly significant for Madeirans.
Legend has it that a century earlier, Anne of Arfet, an English lady, and Robert Machim, a legendary knight from King Edward III’s court, found refuge here. The name Machico is derived from Machim.
Today, the municipality has about 20,000 residents across an area of 68 km², comprising five parishes: Água de Pena, Caniçal, Machico, Porto da Cruz, and part of Santo António da Serra. Much of this area offers expansive views of the majestic Atlantic. -
Pico do Facho Viewpoint - A fantastic loop trail starting at the Miradouro do Pico do Facho’s picnic area provides a wide view over the Machico valley, the central peaks of the island, the Deserted Islands, and Ponta de São Lourenço.
Miradouro do Pico do Facho is located north of Machico, accessible via a path leading to the summit of Pico do Facho before reaching the Caniçal tunnel. Historically, large bonfires were lit here to alert the population to the arrival of enemy vessels.

What's Included
- On-board WiFi
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- On-board WiFi
- In-vehicle air conditioning
What's Not Included
- Admission fees
- Admission fees
Location
Madeira Islands
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
5.0
(4 Ratings)
5 stars
4 stars
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1 star
Markus_n
Nov 17, 2025
best of my life - I'm over 55 years old. With a lot of travel experience. It was the most enjoyable and best tour of my life!
Victor was outstanding!
Review provided by Viator
Stephanie_c
Sep 23, 2025
An Amazing Tour! - I truly feel like I experienced Madeira. After touring the West side, we asked Augie for a 2nd day to see the East. Augie was guide, driver, and companion all in one. We rode in total comfort and, upon reaching the various sites, he escorted us to and from the best vantage points. He even acted as our personal photographer! If I could give Augie and his tours 20 stars, I would.
Review provided by Viator
Egons_g
Sep 18, 2024
the best - It was a great, luxury and joyful experience across all the island.
Thank you, Agi, very much indeed :)!
Review provided by Viator
Paul_b
May 25, 2024
The hills are alive.... - Being in the mountains was wonderful. Felt like a different world. Saw so many things on this tour. Very customized. Highly recommend.
Review provided by Viator