Madeira East: Pico do Arieiro Peaks & Santana Lunch Day Trip

Summary

Mountain peaks trout pools and thatched houses on madeira’s wild east

You’ll ride up twisting roads to Pico do Arieiro’s wild summit, walk among ancient trees at Ribeiro Frio, share lunch in Santana’s colorful village houses, and catch your breath at dramatic viewpoints like Ponta de São Lourenço—all with easy hotel pickup from Funchal and stories from your local guide along the way.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t realize how quickly Funchal would disappear behind us. One minute we’re winding past tiled rooftops, the next we’re at Terreiro da Luta, blinking at a view so wide it makes you go quiet for a second. Our guide, José, pointed out something about old pilgrimage routes—honestly I was half-listening because the air smelled like eucalyptus and I kept trying to spot tiny villages tucked into the green folds below. The road up to Pico do Arieiro is all switchbacks and mist; by the time we stepped out at 1818 meters, my ears had popped twice and my hair was full of wind.

Pico do Arieiro itself—wow, okay, I said I wouldn’t use that word but it fits. The clouds moved so fast they’d swallow one ridge and then reveal another. José showed us where hikers set off for hours-long treks; we just stood there grinning like kids who’d climbed a tree too high. Later at Ribeiro Frio, there was this odd hush under the laurel trees, broken only by water trickling through levadas. Someone pointed out trout darting in a pool (I nearly slipped trying to get a photo—boots still muddy). It felt ancient somehow, like the forest remembered things people forgot.

Lunch in Santana was loud and bright—tables packed with families and those funny little triangular houses everywhere. I tried local fish with milho frito (cornmeal cubes), which tasted better than it looked if I’m honest. José teased me about my accent when I ordered coffee; he said locals can always tell who’s not from around here by how they say “bica.” After that came Ponta de São Lourenço—the cliffs there are sharp, almost red against the sea—and finally Machico bay, where everything seemed softer: golden sand, kids playing football, someone selling chestnuts from a cart. By then my head was full but in a good way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Madeira's eastern highlights

• Visit Terreiro da Luta viewpoint
• Ascend Pico do Arieiro mountain
• See trout farm at Ribeiro Frio
• Lunch stop in Santana town
• Visit Ponta de São Lourenço lookout
• Stop at Machico bay viewpoint

Top questions

How long does the Madeira East day trip from Funchal take?

The tour lasts approximately one full day with multiple stops before returning to Funchal accommodation.

Is hotel pickup included for this Madeira east tour?

Yes, free hotel pickup and drop-off are included for hotels in Funchal.

What is included in the price of the tour?

The price covers all taxes, fees, handling charges, professional guide services, and transportation.

Is lunch included during the tour?

The main stop for lunch is in Santana; food cost may not be included unless specified at booking.

Are specialized infant seats available on this tour?

Yes, specialized infant seats can be provided if needed.

Can service animals join this Madeira day trip?

Service animals are allowed on this tour.

Do guides speak multiple languages on this tour?

The tour may be operated by a multi-lingual guide depending on group needs.

What physical fitness level is required for this trip?

This day trip is suitable for all physical fitness levels.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Funchal, all entry fees and taxes covered, plus guidance from a knowledgeable local throughout each stop—from mountain peaks to Santana’s village lunch—before returning comfortably to your accommodation in the evening.