Full day Island-wide pickup
West Madeira 4x4 Jeep Safari
Porto Moniz lava pools, Seixal's black sand, the Fanal laurel forest and the Cabo Girão cliff skywalk, in a small open 4x4 with a local driver.
from €55
Check availabilityPaúl da Serra
Madeira's only high plateau — moorland, wind turbines and free-roaming cows.
A flat, treeless upland at around 1,400 m that feels nothing like the rest of the island. It is the crossing point between north and south in the west, and the gateway to Rabaçal and Fanal.
Driving across
The ER110 runs the length of the plateau. In clear weather it is an extraordinary drive with views down both coasts; in fog, which is common, visibility drops to a few car lengths and cattle wander onto the road.
There are no fuel stations, shops or reliable phone signal up here. Fill up in Ribeira Brava or Calheta first.
What to stop for
Bica da Cana at the eastern end is the best formal viewpoint. Several unmarked pull-ins along the ER110 look straight down into the Ribeira Brava valley, and the turn-off for Rabaçal and the 25 Fontes walk is roughly halfway.
Local tips
- — Drive slowly at dusk — the cows are unlit and unbothered.
- — If the plateau is fogged in, the coast road via São Vicente is the reliable alternative.
Guided trips here
Bookable tours that include or focus on this spot.
4.5 hours RabaçalRabaçal & 25 Fontes Levada Walk
The Rabaçal valley to the 25 Fontes waterfall amphitheatre and the Risco levada — Madeira's most-loved walk, with transfers and a guide.
from €45
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7 hours Rabaçal 4.7(200)25 Fountains Levada: Hiking Tour in Madeira Rabaçal Valley (PR6)
Starting in the serene Paul da Serra and descending into the stunning Rabaçal Valley, you'll walk through the lush Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
from €48
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8 hours Madeira 4.9(913)Jeep Tour Amazing West to Natural Pools -Full-Day
On this Jeep tour we have everything; Sea, Mountains, Waterfalls and Natural Pools.
from €65
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4 hours Madeira 4.9(206)Skywalk, Amazing Views & Wine Tasting in Open Roof 4x4 Adventure
Starting at Boca dos Namorados about 1000 mts high, you’ll enjoy the stunning views over Nuns valley. Then experience an amazing off-road in our open roof 4x4 to Jardim da Serra known for its Cherry production.
from €47
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7.5 hours Madeira 4.9(192)Signature Wine Tastings, Skywalk, Nature 4x4 Open Roof Expedition
We drive to Serra d'Água on our way to São Vicente, with fantastic views over the north of the island including an amazing off-road in the heart of nature, enjoying beautiful panoramic views.
from €89
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Stay nearby
Where to base yourself for this part of the island.
Avenida do Infante, Funchal
Palace Vista · Luxury 2BR opposite Savoy Palace
Three private balconies, steps from the seafront
4 guests 2 bedrooms
€275 / night
View stay
Santa Luzia, Funchal
Funchal modern 3 bedroom bay view apartment
Large balcony with a full Funchal bay view
6 guests 3 bedrooms
€125 / night
View stayNearby
Within a short drive, so they combine into one day.
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