Cabo Girao, Camara Village & Tea at Reid's Palace
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Port
Funchal (Madeira), Portugal
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$159.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 3½ hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
Discover Madeira's split personality on this distinctly Portuguese island with a noticeable English accent.
Begin with a drive along the island's west coast to Cabo Girão -- the tallest sea cliff in Europe and the second tallest in the world at 1,902 feet. There are stunning views out over Funchal and to the distant horizon. Look for the inhospitable terraces that hug the side of the cliff and are farmed even today, although the laws of gravity would suggest otherwise.
Pass through Câmara de Lobos, a delightfully picturesque village painted by Winston Churchill during his stay in Madeira. Today, it is a thriving fishing center, and the quaint houses around its small bay belong to many of the island's fishermen. These are some of the oldest dwellings on the island.
End your tour by relaxing over afternoon tea at Reid's Palace Hotel. This Madeira institution is famous for its lovely gardens and grounds and for its association with the Funchal Botanic Garden -- the Reid family sold to the government the land on which the legendary gardens are located. Refreshments served include tea, finger sandwiches, scones, and cakes.
Notes:
The dress code at Reid's Palace Hotel is smart-casual (no jeans, shorts, or sports shoes). Wear comfortable walking shoes. Weather and atmospheric conditions vary; no guarantee is offered regarding visibility or views on any day. Bring local currency, as many vendors do not accept credit cards or US dollars.