FUNCHAL PRIVATE FIELD GUIDE
East Madeira in a Day: Ridge Summits, Thatched Houses and the Island’s Far Edge
An intimate, private 8-hour drive from Funchal that climbs Pico do Areeiro, threads rural eastern valleys and finishes at Ponta de São Lourenço — this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
East Madeira in a Day: Ridge Summits, Thatched Houses and the Island’s Far Edge.
This private east-coast circuit departs from Funchal and spends a full day ascending to Pico do Areeiro, descending through the island’s quieter rural tracks and visiting the emblematic triangular houses of Santana. The route continues to the old rum factory at Porto da Cruz and ends at the island’s easternmost viewpoint where you can see both north and south coasts (and, in very clear conditions, Porto Santo).
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Pico do Areeiro: high ridges and broad views
One of the day’s high points is the ascent to Pico do Areeiro, offering dramatic vantage over Madeira’s central spine before the descent into eastern valleys.
Santana’s traditional houses and Porto da Cruz rum
The tour stops at Santana to see its characteristic triangular thatched houses and at Porto da Cruz to view the historic rum factory that still marks the parish.
An east-coast sweep ending at Ponta de São Lourenço
The itinerary links Funchal with Ribeiro Frio, Santana and Porto da Cruz before finishing at Ponta de São Lourenço — the island’s easternmost point where north and south coasts meet.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
Over an eight-hour private outing you rise from the coastal city of Funchal into the island’s highlands, traverse quieter rural lanes and concentrated cultural stops, then sweep out to the exposed eastern headland for far-reaching coastal panoramas.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this private day trip suits — and one key logistical caveat.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a full-day private excursion lasting approximately 8 hours.
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes; bring a jacket for colder conditions and a bathing suit if you plan to swim.
Hotel pickup and drop-off are included for accommodations in the Funchal area; there is an extra charge for pick ups outside Funchal. If you meet on your own, the stated meeting point is Leroy Merlin Funchal (R. do Engenho Velho 4, 9000-291 Funchal).
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Private East Tour (Santana)?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours.
Is hotel pickup included?
Hotel pickup and drop-off in the Funchal area are included; pickups outside Funchal incur an extra charge.
Where is the meeting point if I go on my own?
If you choose to meet the group on your own, the meeting point is Leroy Merlin Funchal (R. do Engenho Velho 4, 9000-291 Funchal).
Is lunch provided on the tour?
Lunch is not included.
What should I wear or bring?
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, bring a jacket for cold weather and a bathing suit if you plan to swim.
What sites does the tour visit?
The itinerary includes Funchal, Pico do Areeiro, Ribeiro Frio, Santana, Porto da Cruz and Ponta de São Lourenço before returning to Funchal.