Magnificent East Tour

Departure from the hotel at 9:00 am towards the parish of Camacha to observe the wicker factory and all its process. Afterwards, climb to Pico do Areeiro at 1818m, where you can observe the beautiful mountains and surrounding valleys and even the parish of Curral das nuntas, deep in one of the great valleys. Descent to Ribeiro Frio, where there is a nursery of trout that later are dropped in the brook. A visit to the center of Santana is followed to observe the typical triangular houses with thatched roof, followed by another stop in Faial. Returning to Funchal, you will have two more stops, at the belvedere of Ponta de São Lourenço and Machico. Return to the hotel by 5:00 p.m.

Itinerary

1. Camacha is a beautiful village located in a wooded area, over a high plateau, at the Northeast of Funchal, in Madeira. This village is famous for its excellent basketing and its folkloric group. (20 min)
2. Be surprised by the imposing views offered by the third highest peak in the island of Madeira. Pico do Areeiro Pico do Areeiro © F.C. Madeira Tourism The Pico do Arieiro Pike, 1818 meter high, is the third highest summit in the Island of Madeira. It is highly advised to climb all the way up to the top of this mountain to enjoy the great beauty of the volcanic landscape and its wonderful views. (30 min)
3. Ribeiro Frio is an exquisite place, surrounded by aromatic forests, offering a welcoming environment. Its hillsides are crowded with numerous plant species and make up the Forest Part of Madeira. Here, taking advantage of environmental benefits, it has been installed a little trouts fish farm. Obviously, the trout is one of the most recommended dishes of its neighboring restaurant. (30 min)
4. Main town of Santana with an incredible view to the Eagle's Rock, Porto Santo, Ponta de São Lourenço and the farming villages that were crossed after Ribeiro Frio. (20 min)
5. Santana is one of the nicest and most colorful villages in Madeira. Here, its inhabitants used to live in beautiful wooden cottages with roofs ending in the narrow head (Palheiros). Some of them still survive among the modern constructions, especially those close to Queimadas area. (2h 0min)
6. You'll visit Ponta de São Lourenço, and your experience will be enriched by having a guide to point out native vegetation and wildlife, that you might miss if you were alone. (25 min)
7. The city of Machico takes up a little cove in the mouth of the Valley of the Ribeira de Machico. Here took place the landing of Zarco in Madeira for the first time in 1420, claiming for Portugal an island which was known by the sailors since ancient times. (20 min)