Magnificent East Tour: Pico do Areeiro, Santana & Ponta de São Lourenço Day Trip
See Madeira’s high peaks, laurel forests and thatched Santana cottages in a single day. This guided east-coast tour combines Pico do Areeiro’s alpine views, Ribeiro Frio’s trout nursery, Santana’s traditional houses and the windswept Ponta de São Lourenço.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for altitude and coast
Temperatures vary from warm coastal sun to chilly summits—bring a lightweight insulating layer and a windproof shell.
Carry refillable water
Stops are short and island taps are potable; a 1–1.5L bottle keeps you comfortable during walks and viewpoints.
Protect from sun and wind
Ponta de São Lourenço is exposed—sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat reduce glare and wind chill.
Mind narrow viewpoints
Some miradouros have limited railings and steep drops—watch footing and supervise children closely.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Queimadas Forest House and short levada sections near Santana for quieter laurel-forest walks
- •Miradouro do Balcões and small roadside viewpoints between Ribeiro Frio and Santana for panoramic valley views
Wildlife
- •Trocaz pigeon (Madeira laurel pigeon)
- •Madeira lizard (Teira dugesii)
Conservation Note
Much of central Madeira is laurisilva (laurel forest) protected for its endemic species—stay on trails, avoid littering and respect signage to limit erosion and disturbance.
Machico marks Madeira’s first recorded landing in 1420 by João Gonçalves Zarco; Santana’s triangular palheiros reflect subsistence farming traditions.
What to Bring
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Provides traction on uneven miradouros, forest paths and village lanes.
Waterproof wind shellEssential
Keeps you warm and dry on exposed summits and coastal points.
Refillable water bottle (1–1.5L)Essential
Hydrates during short walks and long driving stretches between stops.
Sunscreen and sunglassesEssential
Protects from strong UV and reflective glare on coastal viewpoints.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and what is the pace?
The tour runs roughly eight hours with multiple short stops and brief walks—it's a driven sightseeing day rather than a hike.
Is hotel pickup included?
Most departures include pickup from central Funchal hotels; confirm your exact pickup point when booking.
Are meals included?
Meals are not included; there are options to buy snacks or a trout-based lunch near Ribeiro Frio or in Santana.
Is the trip suitable for young children or those with mobility limits?
Yes—walks are short and mostly on paved viewpoints, but some locations have uneven terrain; check accessibility needs with the operator.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 hours
Location
Funchal, Madeira
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most travelers; minimal steep hiking but requires short walks and standing at viewpoints.
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