Start the day with a convenient pickup from your accommodation or the cruise port of Funchal and depart with your private guide to the first stop of tour at São Vicente, where you'll see a beautiful sight over the valley. Continue along the north coast as you go to Chão da Ribeira, another beautiful spot where you can appreciate more of the valley within the Laurisilva of Madeira, the largest surviving area of laurel forest on the island. Advancing toward the north end of the region, you’ll reach the viewpoint of Ribeira da Janela where you can appreciate the contrast betweens the mountains with the sea. Finally, visit Achadas da Cruz, a place that marks the transition between the north coast and the south of the island. If you wish, you can ride the cable car and visit one of the most beautiful and quiet places on the island constructed from landslides and lava flows.

Embark on a half-day tour dedicated to the Madeira's gardens, one of the island's greatest treasures. Visit the Monte Palace Tropical Garden and be impressed by its beauty and diverse culture. See traces of Portugal's history since the reign of its first king, D. Afonso Henriques. Wander through the Monte Palace, which occupies an area of 70.000 square meters and houses an exotic collection of plants from different regions in the world. Watch swans and ducks floating on the lake as well as peacocks and chickens walking freely in the main areas of the property. Visit the museum inside the palace that houses a unique collection of minerals and gems.  The tour ends in the Botanical Garden, founded in 1960 by a Madeiran Botanist. Find more than 2500 species of plants from different parts in the world, all brought together in the “Garden of the Atlantic.”

Following a pickup from your accommodation, we head to the first stop of the day, Faial. From this local viewpoint, marvel at the majestic landscape of the valley with its green hills and blue oceans. You will also see the rock of Penha de Águia. Continuing the tour we visit Santana, home of the island’s famous thatched houses that have existed here for many years, and have become synonymous with Madeira. You will then head further north along the old roads and admire the breathtaking scenic views along the way as you travel through Vigia and Cabanas.

Thatched houses are remnants of primitive buildings made of wood and thatch. The use of these materials, especially wood, was due to their abundance and, at the time, how easy to purchase and affordable they were. The cultivation of cereals, such as wheat and rye, allowed the use of straw (thatch) to cover the housing. These ingredients were also used in flour to sustain the local population.   Visit some of the local houses and discover their history. Experience how the Madeiran people used to live in houses up to 240 years old.  Visit the Queimadas park and have a look at the ancient forest, the Laurissilva. Take home a typical house souvenir so you can remember this amazing day.