Madeira: Fanal Forest Walk & Porto Moniz Pools Day Trip

Summary

From glass cliffs to misty woods and wild Atlantic pools in Madeira

You’ll ride from Funchal with a local guide through Madeira’s dramatic landscapes: step onto Cabo Girão’s glass skywalk, wander misty Fanal Forest where movie scenes come alive, swim or relax at Porto Moniz volcanic pools, and catch wild Atlantic views at Ribeira da Janela. Along the way, expect laughter, small surprises, and plenty of time to soak up each moment.

What’s the experience like?

Dino had the van waiting outside our hotel in Funchal before I’d even finished my coffee — he grinned like we were old friends, so I just went with it. We rolled out past Câmara de Lobos, windows down, the air smelling faintly of eucalyptus and sea salt. Our first stop was this postcard-perfect bay (I forgot the name already), where old fishermen were mending nets right on the stones. Someone’s radio played fado quietly in the background. Not what I expected for a “tour” start — it felt more like being shown around by a cousin who knows all the shortcuts.

Cabo Girão came next. You pay three euros for the skywalk but honestly, standing on that glass over 500 meters up, looking straight down at tiny green terraces and the ocean — my knees wobbled a bit. Dino teased me about it (“Don’t look down if you’re scared of heights!”) but then pointed out how you can see all the way to Funchal if the clouds behave. There’s a weird mix of nerves and awe up there; also, bring coins for the toilets (50 cents). I nearly forgot until someone else mentioned it.

The drive up through Paul da Serra was like entering another world — fog rolling in so thick you could almost taste it, and then suddenly we’re in Fanal Forest. The trees are twisted and ancient; moss everywhere, soft underfoot. It’s quiet except for birds and our own footsteps crunching leaves. Dino told us about that Star Wars scene filmed here — I tried to picture stormtroopers getting lost among these laurel trees. It’s hard to describe how peaceful it felt; I still think about that silence sometimes when I can’t sleep back home.

Lunch was at Porto Moniz, where those volcanic natural pools are just… odd and beautiful at once. Some folks swam (three euros entry), others just dangled their feet or watched waves crash over black lava rock. I had grilled limpets for the first time — salty, chewy, with lemon juice stinging my fingers. We laughed about wet towels in the van (Dino’s only real rule: don’t wreck his seats). Last quick stop at Ribeira da Janela for those wild sea stacks — wind whipping so hard I almost lost my hat — then back toward Funchal as golden light hit everything sideways. The whole day felt both packed and somehow unrushed.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — West Madeira tour with nature and views

• Visit typical fishing bay viewpoint
• See Cabo Girão glass bottom viewpoint
• Explore Ribeira Brava and local market
• Travel through Paul da Serra plateau
• Walk in Fanal Forest
• Swim and eat at Porto Moniz pools
• View Ribeira da Janela rock formation

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Funchal to Porto Moniz?

The tour lasts a full day with several stops between Funchal and Porto Moniz before returning in the evening.

Is hotel pickup included for this Madeira west tour?

Yes, hotel pickup in Funchal is included in your booking.

Do you need to pay extra for Cabo Girão skywalk?

Yes, entrance to Cabo Girão skywalk costs 3 euros per person (not included).

Are entry fees for Porto Moniz natural pools included?

No, entry to Porto Moniz pools is optional and costs 3 euros per person.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?

Yes, infants can join with prams or strollers; infant seats are available upon request.

What should I bring for swimming at Porto Moniz?

Bring swimwear and a towel if you plan to swim; avoid leaving wet items on vehicle seats.

Will there be free time at each stop?

Yes, there is time at each location to explore or relax as you wish.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from your accommodation in Funchal with a certified local guide leading all stops along Madeira’s west coast—from cliff viewpoints to forest walks—plus plenty of time at Porto Moniz pools (entry fee not included). Free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours before departure.