Nun’s Valley

Mountain views come fast on this short ride. In 4 hours, the Nun’s Valley trip strings together dramatic outlooks at Pico dos Barcelos and Eira do Serrado, plus a real pause in the mountain village of Curral das Freiras. I like that it’s structured, so you’re not stuck guessing which roads lead to the best views, and that the village stop gives you more than just a quick photo.

Two things I especially enjoy: the sweep you get from the viewpoint stops (you really see how Funchal sits in the geography), and the chance to slow down in Curral das Freiras, including the church area that many people feel is worth the time. One drawback to consider: when the van is full, seating can feel a bit tight—so if you hate cramped rides, you’ll want to get comfortable early and be ready for a little squeeze.

Key highlights you’ll actually care about

• 355m to 1094m viewpoints: two high spots that give you very different angles on the same valley world
• Curral das Freiras village time: a chance to stretch your legs beyond the mirrors-and-mountains photo run
• Free entry at stops: the viewpoint and parish time is shown as Admission Ticket Free
• Small group feel (max 16): easier conversation and less stop-and-go chaos than bigger buses
• Air-conditioned vehicle: a real comfort win when the island heat is on
• Good-weather requirement: the views depend on it, so plan with flexibility

The Nun’s Valley idea: views plus a real village pause

This tour works because it’s not just a drive with scenic stops. You get a clean rhythm: viewpoints first, then a village visit where the scenery changes from wide views to small streets and a church-centered center.

Curral das Freiras sits in a mountain basin, surrounded by big slopes that make the valley feel like its own world. That’s why the views hit so hard here. From high points, you can see the way the valley holds the village, and from below you feel the shelter of those mountains.

If you’re the type who likes to get your bearings fast on Madeira, this fits. You’ll leave with clear mental “map pieces” for where Funchal is in relation to the interior.

From Funchal to the first viewpoint: quick orientation in the van

You’ll start in the Funchal area with pickup offered, then ride in an air-conditioned vehicle. The whole experience is about 4 hours, which is ideal if you want something satisfying without committing to a full day.

A small group cap of 16 travelers matters more than you might think. It helps keep the schedule tight at viewpoints and makes it easier to coordinate when you step off the vehicle.

One practical note: there’s no WiFi on board. That’s not a deal-breaker for this kind of tour, but it does mean you’ll want offline options ready for any waiting time.

Pico dos Barcelos viewpoint (355m): the fast, dramatic Funchal overview

The first big stop is at the Pico dos Barcelos viewpoint, at about 355 meters. This is where the tour gives you a wide city overview—exactly the kind of view that helps you understand what you’re looking at later.

Expect time to stand, look, and rotate your head. The goal here isn’t a long hike; it’s orientation. If you like snapping a few photos without racing every minute, this stop makes sense.

Since the entry is marked as free for the stop, you’re mostly paying for transportation and guided timing, not for a ticketed attraction. That’s good value for a viewpoint visit that’s all about scenery.

Tip for better photos: give yourself a minute before you start shooting. The angle can change depending on where you stand and how the light hits the city.

Crossing to Eira do Serrado (1094m): the valley view gets taller

Next comes the mountain crossing to Eira do Serrado, where you reach a viewpoint at about 1094 meters. This stop changes the perspective. Pico dos Barcelos helps you understand Funchal; Eira do Serrado helps you understand the valley itself.

Even with only part of the day outdoors, being higher shifts how you read the terrain. You’ll see more of the valley shape, more of the slopes, and more of the way Curral das Freiras sits inside the mountains.

The nice thing about this arrangement is that you’re not stuck doing one long, repetitive viewpoint. You’re comparing two heights and two angles in one loop, which makes the experience feel fuller.

Curral das Freiras parish stop: church time and the mountain-village vibe

After the high viewpoint moments, the tour turns toward Curral das Freiras and its parish area. This is the part that helps it feel like a place, not just scenery.

The village setting is the point. Surrounded by huge mountains, it’s easy to see why this location feels different from the coast. The road, the air, and even the way people move at ground level all give you a slower pace compared to the viewpoint platforms.

This is also where the stop becomes more human. A previous guest specifically called out the church as a worthwhile detour and mentioned that there’s a chance to enjoy a tasting in the village area. That’s the kind of small “add-on” that turns a viewpoint tour into something a bit more local.

What to watch for: because it’s a village-centered stop, you may do a little walking on uneven surfaces. Wear shoes that handle stone and slopes, especially if the weather is damp.

The transport reality: small group, but plan for tight moments

Let’s be honest about the ride. The tour can feel a bit tight when the vehicle is full, and one review noted that they were slightly packed for transport.

This doesn’t mean it’s unsafe or miserable. It just means your comfort depends on where you sit. If you’re sensitive to close seating, you’ll enjoy the experience more if you board early, pick a comfortable spot if there’s flexibility, and don’t expect a roomy tour bus feel.

The good news is that the vehicle is air-conditioned, which helps you stay focused on the scenery instead of overheating during the mountain drives.

Price and value: $23.15 for a 4-hour route with two viewpoint payoffs

At about $23.15 per person, this tour is priced for budget-minded travelers. The “value” comes from what you’re getting per hour: a timed loop from Funchal into the mountains, a pair of major viewpoints at very different heights, and village time in Curral das Freiras.

You’re also not paying extra for entry at the stop points listed as free. That keeps the cost predictable.

The biggest value trade-off is time. This is not an all-day deep hike or a multi-location Madeira immersion. It’s a focused, high-impact afternoon run. If you want a compact experience that gives you multiple viewpoint perspectives plus a village break, that price makes sense.

If you’re the kind of traveler who likes long stays, slow wandering, and lots of independent exploration, you might feel the schedule is brisk. But the structure is also what makes the tour work for first-timers.

Weather matters more than you think (and here it’s not optional)

This experience requires good weather. That’s not a generic warning; it’s the difference between breathtaking views and looking at misty slopes.

Check conditions before you go, and don’t plan anything tight right before or right after this tour if you can avoid it. If weather forces a change, the tour offers either a different date or a full refund.

Pack with the reality that you’re moving from lower to higher elevations. Even if Funchal feels warm, the viewpoints can feel cooler and windier.

A simple kit helps: a light layer, sun protection, and something for occasional breezes. If rain threatens, bring a rain layer you can actually use while standing outside for photos.

Who this tour suits best

This is a strong fit if:

• You want a short, well-timed way to see the mountain side of Madeira from Funchal
• You like viewpoints, especially when you get two different heights and perspectives
• You want a village stop that adds variety beyond the usual coastline sightseeing
• You prefer a small group size (max 16) over crowded bus touring

It may not be ideal if you:

• Hate tight seating and want maximum space in transit
• Expect a long, slow walking tour with lots of independent free time
• Are going during uncertain weather and can’t be flexible with dates

Should you book Nun’s Valley?

Yes, if you want a simple, scenic afternoon that turns into clear mental geography fast. For $23.15, you’re buying two major viewpoint moments plus a real village stop, with free entry at the listed stops and air-conditioned transport.

I’d book it especially if you’re trying to make the most of limited time on Madeira. The route gives you variety without exhausting you: high views, valley context, then a church-and-village pause.

Skip it only if weather risk is high for your dates and you can’t adjust, or if you’re very sensitive to cramped seating in vans.

FAQ

How long is the Nun’s Valley tour?

It runs for about 4 hours (approx.).

Where does the tour take place?

The tour is based in Funchal, Portugal.

Does the tour offer pickup?

Yes, pickup is offered.

What’s included in the price?

An air-conditioned vehicle is included.

Is there WiFi on board?

No, WiFi on board is not included.

What is the group size limit?

The tour has a maximum of 16 travelers.

How do I get the tickets?

You’ll receive a mobile ticket.

Is the tour dependent on weather?

Yes. It requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. You can also cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.