Madeira: Cabo Girão Skywalk, 4x4 Adventure & Wine Tasting

Summary

Atlantic cliffs, cherry villages, poncha breaks and Madeira wine

You’ll ride an open-roof 4x4 from Funchal up into Nuns Valley with a local guide, sip Poncha in a tiny village bar, walk out over the Atlantic on Cabo Girão’s glass skywalk, and finish with Madeira wine tasting before wandering Câmara de Lobos’ harbor streets. There’s always something unexpected — maybe it’s the view or just how good Poncha tastes after bouncing along mountain roads.

What’s the experience like?

Hands gripping the roll bar, a little tighter than I’d admit, we bounced up from Funchal toward Boca dos Namorados — that’s where you first see Nuns Valley open up below. Our guide Ricardo pointed to the clusters of white houses tucked between green slopes and told us how the nuns once hid here from pirates. The air was cool even though it was late morning, and there was this faint scent of eucalyptus mixed with something sweet — maybe cherries? Jardim da Serra is famous for them. I kept thinking how different the light looked up here compared to down by the port.

The 4x4 off-road part wasn’t as wild as I’d feared (my partner laughed at me for bracing so much), but it did get my heart going. At one point Ricardo stopped so we could try Poncha in a tiny Madeiran bar — it’s this punchy drink made with local rum, honey, and lemon. I tried to order in Portuguese; the bartender smiled politely but switched to English right away. The glass left my lips sticky, and honestly I still think about that sharp citrus taste every time I smell lemons now.

Cabo Girão Skywalk came next — standing on that glass balcony 580 meters above the Atlantic is… well, you just have to do it. My knees wobbled but I couldn’t look away from those fishing boats way down below. It’s busy but everyone falls silent for a second when they step out there. Afterward we drove on to Henriques & Henriques for Madeira wine tasting (the sweet one was my favorite). The lodge felt cool and dark inside after all that sunlight outside. We ended in Câmara de Lobos — fishermen mending nets by colorful boats, kids running around shouting in Portuguese. Didn’t expect to feel so at home so far from home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Skywalk, 4x4 adventure, and wine tasting

• Start at Boca dos Namorados viewpoint
• Enjoy views over Nuns valley
• Off-road 4x4 to Jardim da Serra
• Visit typical Madeiran bar for Poncha
• Visit Cabo Girão skywalk cliff
• Taste Madeira wines at Henriques & Henriques
• Visit fishing village Câmara de Lobos

Top questions

Is pickup included for this Madeira tour?

Yes, free pickup and drop off are included in Funchal’s central area and port.

How high is Cabo Girão Skywalk?

Cabo Girão Skywalk is 580 meters above sea level.

Are drinks or lunch included?

The Madeira wine tasting is free; Poncha at the bar is not included.

How long does it take to get from Funchal to Nuns Valley?

It takes about 30-40 minutes by car or 4x4 from Funchal to Nuns Valley.

Is this tour suitable for children or infants?

Yes, specialized infant seats are available and all fitness levels are welcome.

Do I need to pay extra for entry fees?

The wine tasting is free; entry to Cabo Girão Skywalk costs €2 (not included).

What if Henriques & Henriques wine lodge is closed?

If closed due to Portuguese holidays, an alternative will be arranged if possible.

What’s included

Your day includes free pickup and drop-off in central Funchal or at the port, all safety instructions with a professional local guide, insurance according to Portuguese law, WiFi onboard your vehicle, plus a complimentary Madeira wine tasting at Henriques & Henriques before returning in the afternoon.