Ride along Madeira’s dramatic eastern coast with Madeira Sidecar Tours. This 8-hour adventure showcases towering peaks, dense Laurissilva forests, and traditional villages, all from the seat of an open-air sidecar.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with average fitness; some walking at stops may be required.
Wildlife
History
Santana’s unique triangular houses reflect traditional agricultural architecture dating back centuries, linking to Madeira’s rural past.
Conservation
The Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is carefully protected to preserve its endemic species and ancient laurel trees.
Madeira Sidecar Tours
Ride along Madeira’s dramatic eastern coast with Madeira Sidecar Tours. This 8-hour adventure showcases towering peaks, dense Laurissilva forests, and traditional villages, all from the seat of an open-air sidecar.
Madeira Sidecar Tours operates from Funchal, Madeira, offering guided sidecar motorcycle tours across the island. The company provides a range of curated trips that vary from short 2‑hour outings to full 8‑hour island excursions. Key itineraries include Ponta de São Lourenço, visits to the Cristo Rei Statue and the fishing village of Caniçal, and photo-focused Old Road tours along both the west and east coasts. Longer routes traverse the island’s west and east sides with stops at banana plantations, vineyards, Porto Moniz lava pools, Eira do Serrado, Nun’s Valley and Curral das Freiras.
Tours explore Funchal’s historical center, the Farmer’s Market, Câmara de Lobos, Cabo Girão Skywalk, trout farms, the Laurissilva forest and traditional Santana houses. Many itineraries offer local tastings such as chestnut cake and sweet Ginja liqueur, and flexible stops tailored to guest preferences. Durations listed include 2, 3, 4 and 8-hour options to suit varied schedules.
The operation emphasizes personalized sightseeing in small groups and photographic opportunities along scenic roads and viewpoints. Transfers and exact routes are adapted based on the selected tour and guest needs. Madeira Sidecar Tours is based in Funchal and specializes in showing Madeira’s coastal cliffs, mountain valleys and cultural highlights from an authentic sidecar perspective. Booking details, availability and specific meeting points are provided at reservation, and each trip description outlines highlights and expected duration. Trip lengths, meeting points and optional lunches depend on the selected itinerary and are clarified during booking to match guest schedules and accessibility needs where applicable locally.
Base
Funchal, Madeira
Central meeting point in Funchal
Durations
2–8 hours
Short to full-day options
Scenic Routes
Coast & Mountains
Views from cliffs to valleys
Tours Offered
9 tours
Varied itineraries across the island
Reserve a tailored sidecar experience to explore Madeira’s cliffs, valleys and coastal villages — spaces fill quickly for popular routes.
Wear layered clothing
Temperatures can vary from coastal heat to cooler mountain air, so layers ensure comfort throughout the day.
Bring a camera with a wide zoom lens
The scenic stops along steep cliffs and forest paths offer dramatic landscapes worth capturing at varying distances.
Consider your mobility needs
The tour is customizable to physical ability, but some stops involve short walks or uneven surfaces; communicate your needs when booking.
Stay hydrated
An 8-hour tour with multiple stops means carrying water is essential, especially during warmer months.
Helmet (provided or bring your own)
Safety-first for sidecar rides—helmets are mandatory and often provided.
Windbreaker jacket
Protects against cool mountain winds and occasional rain during forest stops.
spring
Sturdy walking shoes
For short walks around the trout farm, Laurissilva forest, and villages.
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Essential for sun protection during exposed coastal and mountain segments.
summer