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Manors, Monasteries & Mystique of Madeira

Funchal Manors Monasteries And Mystique of Madeira

Unlock Madeira’s mystique by stepping through splendid manors and vibrant scenery with a local storyteller.

Step into Funchal’s rich past on a guided walking tour (lead by a Maderia University student) packed with stories of explorers, invaders, nuns, and nobles. Visit the English Church and stroll past manor houses, historic monasteries, and churches tied to Madeira’s earliest settlers. Stand where João Gonçalves Zarco once lived, and soak up the views from the Cruzes viewpoint. From a French attack in 1566 to royal-approved pastries, this walk reveals the island’s quirkiest, most fascinating tales.

Sustainable Tours

This tour operator has received third-party certification based on the Global Sustainable Tourism Council criteria.

Shore Thing Highlights

  • Local university volunteers will take you through Madeira’s legendary past beginning at the city’s wall where the French army attacked Funchal in 1566

  • Head to the English neighborhood to see manor homes and the amazing Quinta das Cruzes viewpoint (once home to Madeira’s founder, João Gonçalves Zarco)

  • This Shore Thing supports local students

Need to know

  • Please be aware this Shore Thing is not wheelchair accessible

  • Not recommended for Sailors with walking difficulties

  • Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

  • The order of sites visited may vary

  • Approximately 2 hours of walking on this Shore Thing

  • This Shore Thing operator has received third-party certification based on the Global Sustainable Tourism Council criteria

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