Discovering Curral das Freiras
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Discovering Curral das Freiras

Scenic mountain valley and historic village tour

1 day • Easy difficulty • Est. €35

Day 1: Day Trip from Funchal: Curral das Freiras

A scenic day trip exploring the remote 'Valley of the Nuns' in Madeira. The itinerary includes a drive from Funchal, stops at key viewpoints like Pico de Barcelos, and the main highlight of viewing the valley from Eira do Serrado. Includes time for local culture and traditional cuisine.

  • 09:00

    Drive from Funchal to Curral das Freiras

    Depart from Funchal. Take the scenic route north, potentially using the tunnel road for efficiency. The drive takes approximately 45-60 minutes through Madeira's dramatic landscapes.

  • 09:45

    Stop at Pico de Barcelos Viewpoint

    Stop at this iconic viewpoint (364m altitude) for panoramic views of Funchal Bay and the Cabo Girão cliffs. A great spot for photos and understanding the geography of the island.

  • 10:15

    Arrival in Curral das Freiras Village

    Drive into the valley. Park near the church or the main square. This remote village was historically isolated and accessible only by footpath until 1959.

  • 11:00

    Explore Curral das Freiras Village

    Walk around the village center. Visit the Church of Nossa Senhora do Rosário. Observe the traditional architecture and learn about the history of the nuns who supposedly sought refuge here.

  • 12:00

    Drive to Eira do Serrado

    Short drive up to Eira do Serrado, situated 1,094 meters above sea level. This is the primary viewpoint for the entire valley.

  • 12:45

    Panoramic View at Eira do Serrado

    Enjoy the breathtaking 360-degree views of the Curral das Freiras valley. This is the highlight of the trip, offering a dramatic perspective of the steep cliffs and the village below.

  • 13:30

    Lunch at a Local Tasca

    Return to the village for lunch. Try traditional Madeiran dishes such as Espetada (beef skewers), Black Scabbard Fish (Espada with banana), or local cheeses. Many local restaurants offer views of the valley.

  • 15:00

    Local Crafts and Souvenirs

    Browse local shops for handmade crafts, lace, or local honey and wine. Take a relaxed walk along the edge of the valley if weather permits.

  • 16:00

    Return Drive to Funchal

    Begin the drive back to Funchal. Consider taking a different route if time permits, or stopping at another viewpoint along the way.

Meals: Lunch at Curral das Freiras Village

Where to stay: This is a day trip. Stay in Funchal or another part of Madeira. No overnight stay in Curral das Freiras is required.

Getting around: A rental car is highly recommended for flexibility. Public transport (Bus 81) is available but limited in schedule and frequency, making a car or organized tour the best options.

Practical Information

Curral das Freiras, or the "Valley of the Nuns," is best visited during spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October) to avoid the peak summer crowds and intense heat. While Madeira enjoys mild weather year-round, the mountainous location means temperatures are significantly cooler than in Funchal, and weather can change rapidly. Mist may obscure the famous panoramic views from Eira do Serrado, so arriving early in the morning offers the highest chance of clear skies. Transportation is most efficient via a rental car, which allows for flexibility and access to the scenic tunnel route from Funchal, reducing travel time to under an hour. The drive covers approximately 18 km and features winding roads that require cautious driving. Public transport is available via the Number 81 bus from Funchal, though schedules may be limited, making it less ideal for a tight one-day itinerary. Once in the village, the area is compact and easily explored on foot, requiring only a couple of hours to see the main sights. Accommodation options within Curral das Freiras are limited, consisting mainly of small guesthouses and local hotels. For travelers seeking more variety or specific amenities, staying in Funchal and taking a day trip is a practical alternative. If you choose to stay overnight in the valley, book well in advance, as inventory is scarce. Budget considerations should account for fuel and potential tolls if using the tunnel road. Entrance to the village and viewpoints is free, but costs will arise from meals, parking, and any guided tours. Bring sturdy walking shoes, as terrain can be uneven, and pack layers, including a windproof jacket, due to the altitude of 1,094 meters. Sunscreen and sunglasses are essential for the viewpoints, while a camera with a wide-angle lens is recommended for capturing the dramatic landscape from Eira do Serrado. Finally, carry some cash, as smaller local shops may not accept cards, and ensure your vehicle has adequate fuel before descending from the mountain.

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