Shore Excursion: Private Madeira Tour & Wine Tasting

We then head to Eira Do Serrado, this is an eye catching rock ledge, that overlooks  “Curral das Freiras” a horse shoe shaped valley beneath us. This valley has three sheer sides that cut into the serrated peaks of Madeira.

Meeting you as your cruise ships ports in Funchal.  We start this private taxi tour by heading to Funchal's popular main Market, which sells a colourful array of fish, excotic fruits local crafts and flowers. From its fresh fish stall of octopus and tuna to the stunning flower stall, here you will discover how the locals shop.

Next stop on our half day luxury tour is Camara de Lobos, situated west of Funchal. Here you will love the character of a small fishing village. It was named after the famous monk seals which frequent visitors to the harbour. The centre of the village, with its whitewashed houses, shops and bar where you can taste the local drink poncha, is a great way to finish of your tour in style.  Our next stop of this private tour is tasting the famous Maderia local wine at the glass-fronted modern wine lodge, Henrique e Henrique. Dating from 1850, the lodge owns the largest vineyards on the island and produces some of the best madeira wines around.  Founded in 1850, the firm of henrique & henrique has won a string of medals and awards in recent years for its attempts to dispel the fusty image of Madeira Wine.

Then we finish off our tour in style with the famous Monte Toboggan run. This is one of Madeira’s most famous attractions. Dating back to the 1850s, the Monte Sledge — a wicker toboggan — was the primary means of downhill public transportation. Two men, called “Carreiros” dressed in white and wearing straw hats, will be your chauffeurs on this downhill adventure. They wear special, rubber-soled shoes that help them steer and brake the toboggan, which is essentially a wicker basket attached to two wooden runners (that glide on greased up rags).  The trip to the bottom takes about 10 minutes down a curvy road, and you can expect to reach speeds up to 30mph!  Book this tour early to avoid disappointment as this private tour of Madeira with wine tasting books out early due to the price being similar to the large coach tours but you get to visit in style in your own private taxi.