Nun’s Valley

Nun’s Valley rewards you with big views. This half-day trip is built around two high stops—Pico dos Barcelos and Eira do Serrado—before you head into the tiny mountain village of Curral das Freiras, set in a natural cauldron shaped by erosion or volcanic activity.

I love how the route mixes viewpoints with a real village pause, not just photo stops. You’ll also get a church-focused visit in Curral das Freiras, and some guests talk about a small local tasting during the stop. One possible drawback: if the group fills the vehicle, the ride can feel a bit tight.

Key Highlights to Know Before You Go

• Pico dos Barcelos (355m): A classic Funchal panorama you’ll want to linger over.
• Eira do Serrado (1094m): Higher elevation views directly over the Curral das Freiras valley.
• Curral das Freiras parish stop: Time to see the village and church area, plus a small tasting is possible.
• Max 16 travelers: Small-group feel, which matters on winding mountain roads.
• Pickup + air-conditioned vehicle: Comfort helps when the itinerary is short but scenic.
• Admission is free at key stops: You’re paying mainly for the guide/vehicle time.

A Mountain Corridor With Two Viewpoints (Not Just One)

This is the kind of tour that makes sense if you want Madeira scenery without giving up half a day. In roughly four hours, you’re taken from Funchal up toward viewpoints above the city, then back into the heart of the island to reach Curral das Freiras, the valley village people come for.

What I like most is the pacing. You don’t race past everything. You get a short window at each overlook, so you can actually take in the view instead of sprinting for it. And because this route uses two elevations—first a viewpoint over Funchal, then a deeper valley view—you’ll feel like you’re seeing two different “mood” landscapes in one go.

Stop 1: Curral das Freiras Village and Its Volcanic/Erosion Story

Your tour centers on Curral das Freiras, a small village surrounded by huge mountains. The site sits in what’s often described as a cauldron-like basin, formed by erosion (or volcanic activity, depending on which explanation you hear). Either way, the result is the same: dramatic walls of mountain terrain that make the village feel tucked away and protected.

You’ll have time here (about 45 minutes), which is long enough to do three practical things:

1) Walk the church area and settle into the village rhythm

2) Take a few photos without feeling rushed

3) Ask questions and learn while you’re there, since this isn’t just a scenic pull-off

This is also where the church comes into focus. Some visitors highlight that the church is worth the detour—an easy way to turn a “valley stop” into something with local character. I’d treat this stop as your cultural anchor of the day. The viewpoints are gorgeous, but Curral is what helps it feel like you connected to the island, not just the sky.

Pico dos Barcelos: The Funchal Viewpoint You’ll Remember

Before you go deeper into the mountains, you stop at Miradouro Pico dos Barcelos. It sits at 355m, but the payoff is huge: an overview of Funchal.

This kind of viewpoint matters because it gives you orientation. From down in the city, Madeira can feel like it’s all slopes and streets. From Pico dos Barcelos, you see how the city spreads out and how the terrain shapes everything—where the land rises, where neighborhoods tuck into the hills, and how the coastline cuts through the scene.

You’re usually at this stop for about 20 minutes. That’s perfect if you plan your time:

• First 5 minutes: find the best angle and take a quick wide shot
• Next 10 minutes: zoom in mentally—notice the city layers
• Last 5 minutes: circle once for a different light or perspective

Even if you’re not a “standing around with a camera” person, you’ll probably want at least one calm minute here. The view does a lot of the storytelling for you.

Eira do Serrado at 1094m: Valley Views That Feel Close Up

After the Pico dos Barcelos perspective over Funchal, you cross the mountains to Eira do Serrado, which sits at a much higher 1094m. The result is a different kind of beauty. Here you’re looking down over the Curral das Freiras valley itself.

This stop is short enough to stay active, but long enough to feel the change. The elevation makes the valley feel both steep and structured—like you can see why this basin became a natural “home” for a village. On clear days, the mountains look layered rather than flat. On hazier days, you still get that dramatic sense of depth, just with softer edges.

One practical point: if you’re sensitive to cooler air, bring a light layer. Higher viewpoints can feel noticeably different from the city, especially once you step out of the vehicle.

Getting the Most From the 4-Hour Route

This tour is about 4 hours total, give or take. That short duration is a benefit if you’re trying to avoid a long day of driving. It also means the logistics are tight: you’ll want to be ready at each stop rather than trying to “fit in” extra breaks.

The van part is part of the experience, too. The roads are mountainous, and you’ll be bouncing along between viewpoints and the village. Because the tour is capped at 16 travelers, it’s not a huge bus situation, but it can still feel compact if the seats are fully used.

Here’s how to enjoy it smoothly:

• Keep your phone/camera batteries topped up before pickup
• Wear shoes with grip if the viewpoint edges look slick
• If you’re prone to motion sickness, consider bringing something simple ahead of time (the route crosses mountains)

Also, because there’s no WiFi on board, plan your “online time” for later. Use that mental space to watch the scenery as you climb, not as a screen saver.

Price and Value: What $23.15 Buys You

At $23.15 per person, this tour sits firmly in the “good value” category—especially if you’re staying in Funchal and want a straightforward way to reach Curral das Freiras plus two viewpoints.

Here’s what you’re really paying for:

• Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
• A route that strings together two major outlooks and a village stop
• Time-efficient stops that fit into a half-day schedule
• Free admission at key stops (so you’re not paying extra to enjoy the views)

The value equation changes depending on you. If you’re the type who loves spontaneous extra stops and long wandering time, four hours may feel a bit brief. But if you want maximum scenery per hour with minimal planning, this is the kind of tour that saves you the hassle of coordinating mountain roads on your own.

And because the group size is limited, it’s often easier to ask questions, confirm where to stand for the best photo angles, and actually enjoy the stops rather than getting swept along.

When the Weather Doesn’t Play Along

This experience requires good weather. That’s not a minor detail—viewpoints are exactly where visibility matters. If the day is foggy or rainy, your view may be less dramatic, and the operator may adjust by offering a different date or a full refund.

If you can choose, aim for a day when Funchal’s weather looks stable. Check forecast trends the night before, and don’t plan this as the only outdoor activity if you’re on a short trip with limited flexibility.

Who This Tour Fits Best

This tour is ideal if you:

• Want an easy half-day out of Funchal that still feels like a real mountain journey
• Like viewpoints with clear “before and after” elevation changes
• Prefer a short village visit where you can see a church area and absorb local atmosphere
• Don’t want to wrestle with mountain driving and parking on your own

It may be less ideal if you:

• Need long, unstructured walking time in one place (you won’t get that here)
• Are very sensitive to tight seating in smaller vehicles
• Are visiting during unstable weather and can’t switch plans if visibility is poor

Should You Book Nun’s Valley (Curral das Freiras) With Ilha Tours?

I’d book it if you want a practical, scenic taste of Madeira’s interior without committing to a full day. The combination of Pico dos Barcelos, Eira do Serrado, and Curral das Freiras gives you variety in a short window: city-overview first, then valley depth, then village culture.

One smart way to decide: look at what you’re already doing in Funchal. If your itinerary is mostly city time, this is a clear change of pace. If you already have a lot of viewpoint stops planned, you might consider skipping—but if you’re missing Curral das Freiras specifically, this tour is one of the simplest routes to get there.

FAQ

What is the location of this tour?

The tour takes place in Funchal, Portugal, with stops in the Curral das Freiras area and at viewpoints.

How long is the Nun’s Valley tour?

It’s about 4 hours (approx.).

Is pickup offered?

Yes, pickup is offered.

Do I get a mobile ticket?

Yes, the tour includes a mobile ticket.

How many people are in the group?

The maximum group size is 16 travelers.

Is WiFi included on board?

No, WiFi on board is not included.

Are there admission tickets to pay?

The tour lists admission as free for the key stops shown, including the Curral das Freiras stop.

What are the tour hours?

Thursday: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM (with the listed availability dates covering 05/09/2019 – 06/18/2026).

What weather conditions are required?

The experience requires good weather.

How flexible is cancellation?

You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance of the experience start time.