Ribeira Brava in 1 Day for Couples - Laurisilva forest & Fanal atmospheric trees
In Collaboration with Green Devil Safari, Unipessoal Lda. Updated on January 31, 2026.
A scenic, intimate full-day 4x4 tour of Madeira’s rugged northwest: levadas and laurisilva forest, cliff-top viewpoints, volcanic swimming pools in Porto Moniz, with a local poncha tasting and an optional seaside lunch. Designed for couples — relaxed pacing, memorable photo moments and one special romantic moment at the pools.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Green Devil Safari, Unipessoal Lda, inspired by the tour Volcanic Pools and Northwest 4WD Full Day Tour. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Laurisilva forest & Fanal atmospheric trees
- Porto Moniz volcanic natural swimming pools (special romantic swim / sunset-style moment)
- Panoramic cliffs, waterfalls & local poncha tasting
- Short levada walk and high plateaus with sweeping views
Itinerary
Day 1
Full-day NorthWest 4x4 experience for couples — easy levada walk, forest & volcanic pools with an optional lunch.
Meeting & pickup — central Funchal (start)
Meet your driver-guide in central Funchal for quick introductions and safety briefing. Vehicles are open-top 4x4s — light wind/reservable blankets available.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask your guide for a lightweight blanket if you’re sensitive to wind in the open-top 4x4 — it’s cosy for two.
- Bring a small daypack with swimwear and a dry change — easier than unpacking at the hotel later.
- Confirm any dietary restrictions now if you’ll take the optional lunch (chef can often accommodate).
Drive to Serra de Água (scenic plateau approach)
Comfortable drive north-west into the island highlands. Enjoy coffee/tea on board while watching the landscape rise to the plateau.
Tips from local experts:
- Sit on the leeward side of the vehicle if you want uninterrupted conversation — wind can be stronger on the exposed side.
- Ask the guide to point out the levada channels — they’re a uniquely Madeiran sight and perfect for a quiet photo together.
- Carry sunglasses — the sun reflects strongly at higher altitude even in spring.
Short stop — Serra de Água (view & photo)
A short romantic viewpoint stop on the plateau to stretch legs, take photos and learn about local levadas and farming terraces.
Tips from local experts:
- Stand together at the overlook for a wide-angle photo — morning light is soft in May and flattering.
- This stop is on gentle terrain but can be grassy — bring comfortable shoes for a short walk.
- If you want a keepsake, ask the guide where local artisans sell small honey or ceramics in the village nearby.
Drive to Estrada das Ginjas (mountain road photo stop)
Scenic driving along Estrada das Ginjas with a short stop for dramatic valley and ridge views.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask the guide to pause where the road narrows for the best uninterrupted valley views — great for a candid photo.
- Keep a light scarf handy; it makes great movement in photos on windy ridgelines.
- This stop is brief: lock valuables in the vehicle to avoid carrying too much on the short walk.
Photo & short levada introduction — Ginjas
A guided look at a levada and local water channels with a short easy stroll (about 10–15 minutes) to learn about Madeiran irrigation and native plants.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear closed-toe shoes for the levada-side path — it’s flat but can be damp in spring.
- Hold hands for narrow sections — it’s romantic and keeps you steady on the short trail.
- Ask your guide about native flowers you can scent together — spring brings sweet fragrances in the hedgerows.
Drive toward Estanquinhos (country lanes)
Continue through sheltered country lanes toward the northern slopes — brief drive with scenic vantage points.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask your guide for a quick detour suggestion if you spot an inviting roadside café for a coffee.
- This stretch has several photo opportunities — ask to stop if a waterfall catches your eye.
- If you prefer quieter moments, request a slower pace on the serpentine sections to enjoy the views together.
Drive to Fanal forest (Laurisilva approach)
Scenic ascent toward Fanal — the ancient laurel forest with atmospheric mossy trees and twisting trunks.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask the guide to time the stop at Fanal for soft light — mid-late morning in May reduces harsh shadows for photos.
- If you enjoy atmospheric shots, request a brief walk under the larger trees where the canopy filters the light.
- Take a deep breath together — the laurel-scented air is one of the island’s most romantic natural fragrances.
Fanal — laurisilva forest stop (easy stroll & photos)
Gentle stroll among the iconic, wind-sculpted trees. The area is famous for its fairytale-like scenery — perfect for couples’ photos.
Tips from local experts:
- Choose a short loop only — paths can be damp; comfortable shoes are a must for a relaxed walk.
- Bring a small tripod or ask the guide for a couple’s portrait under the oldest trees.
- Fanal can be cooler and misty — pack a light waterproof layer if you plan atmospheric photos.
Drive to Porto Moniz (coastal descent to the pools)
Scenic drive down toward the volcanic coast and Porto Moniz’s natural lava pools — enjoy cliff and waterfall views en route.
Tips from local experts:
- Sit on the passenger side that faces the ocean for the best shared views on the descent.
- Ask the guide which pool is quieter if you’d like a more private swim together.
- Keep swimwear accessible so you can change quickly and maximize time at the pools.
Porto Moniz — Natural lava pools & optional 3-course lunch
Relax at the Piscinas Naturais do Porto Moniz — swim or soak in the volcanic pools. Optional local 3-course lunch (approx. €12) at nearby restaurant while watching the sea.
Tips from local experts:
- For a private-feeling spot, walk a short distance along the promenade north of the main pools — fewer visitors later in the day.
- Bring reef shoes for walking on the volcanic rock; they protect feet and make water entry comfortable.
- If taking the optional lunch, request a seaside table — the views at mealtime are one of the day’s romantic highlights.
Drive to Seixal (cliff-side viewpoint)
Short coastal drive to Seixal for a dramatic black-sand beach and cliff-side viewpoints — great for sunset-style photo frames even in late afternoon light.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask the guide to pause at high viewpoints above Seixal for sea-cliff photos — late afternoon light in May is flattering.
- Seixal’s beach area has black sand — it makes a striking backdrop for couple portraits.
- If you enjoy local pastries, request a quick stop at a nearby café to share a bolo do caco before continuing.
Seixal — short beach & viewpoint stop
20-minute stop to enjoy the rugged coastline and black sand beach — nice place for an intimate walk and photos.
Tips from local experts:
- Stroll the promenade hand-in-hand — it’s an easy, romantic stretch and stroller-friendly if needed.
- Bring a lightweight jacket — coastal breezes cool quickly after sunshine fades.
- If you want shell keepsakes, look for small tide-line finds near the rock pools (leave large shells for wildlife).
Drive to São Vicente (village & volcanic caves area)
Drive inland to São Vicente — brief stop to admire the village and volcanic formation views. Guide will point out geological features and local history.
Tips from local experts:
- São Vicente’s viewpoint is perfect for a calm pause — ask for a seat on the lower side of the overlook to avoid wind.
- If you’d like a small souvenir, the village has artisan shops with ceramics and honey — ideal for a sentimental keepsake.
- This stop is short: plan quick photos and a relaxed breath of fresh air rather than a long walk.
São Vicente — village stroll & viewpoint
Short stroll in São Vicente to see the village square and enjoy cliff-edge views — a calm wrap-up before returning south.
Tips from local experts:
- Find a quiet bench in the village square for a few minutes together — the setting is charming and low-key.
- If you both enjoy local liqueurs, ask the guide to recommend a small bottle of poncha to take home.
- This area is mostly flat around the square, making it easy to stroll hand-in-hand; footwear can stay casual.
Poncha tasting stop (local flavor) & return drive to Funchal
Quick stop to sample the local poncha — a traditional Madeiran honey-and-rum drink — before the scenic drive back to Funchal. Return arrival to central Funchal by late afternoon.
Tips from local experts:
- Share a single poncha to savour the taste without overdoing alcohol before the drive back.
- Ask for the guide’s recommended place — small family-run bars often make the best, least-sweet versions.
- If you prefer non-alcoholic, request a freshly-squeezed local juice — equally refreshing and romantic to share.
Drop-off in Funchal (end)
Return to central Funchal. Guide will confirm return details and offer local suggestions for a relaxed evening (dinner, sunset walk).
Tips from local experts:
- Ask the guide for a sunset promenade recommendation in Funchal — perfect cap to your romantic day.
- If you enjoyed the guide, tipping is customary — a small note is appreciated for personalised service.
- Confirm any luggage left at the vehicle before exiting; vendors often keep small lost items for a short time.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 9 |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 7 |
| Total Places | 7 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Outdoor, Experience, Attraction, Neighborhood |