Cultural & Food Tours at Porto da Cruz Mill - Madeira
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; no strenuous activity involved.
Overview
Discover Madeira’s rich history through a hands-on rum and sugar tasting tour at Porto da Cruz. Experience traditional techniques and sample exquisite spirits—an authentic cultural deep dive you won’t forget.
SugarCane Rum Tasting Experience
Starting at €25 | 1 Hour | Parties of 2 to 15 | Porto da Cruz
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience the rich heritage of sugar production at the historic Porto da Cruz mill, where you’ll witness traditional rum-making techniques. Enjoy a guided tour, explore interactive exhibits, and indulge in a MasterClass tasting of seven exquisite rums, complemented by Madeira Sugar Cane Honey. A unique journey into Madeira's cultural legacy awaits!
Rates
Adult: €20 Ages 18 & Older
Minimum party of 2 required to book
Duration
1 Hour
Location
Porto da Cruz (30 min From Funchal)
About
Our Producer Anyone visiting our historic Producer in the village of Porto da Cruz gets to experience one of the main pieces of living evidence of the island’s glorious sugar production, at the beginning of the 20th century.
Built in the beginning of the 20th century (1927), although equipped with machinery from the 19th century, the Porto da Cruz mill is one of the most striking examples of the importance of sugarcane trade in Madeira Island. In terms of heritage it is also a museum of major significance.
It is dedicated exclusively to the production of sugarcane rum according to the original process, including the “Branca” rum and the "Envelhecida 970 Reserva" rum.
If you visit the island between the months of March and May when the sugarcane harvest begins you can witness the sounds, movements and smells of fermentation, albeit from a safe distance due to modern safety restrictions.
During the rest of the year it is possible to observe the machines and to understand the mechanism through interactive devices.
Our tour will start at the mill where our producer will present you the whole process, in the end we have a MasterClass tasting which includes 7 different rums, water bottle and Madeira Sugar Can Honey.
Includes
- Guided visit to the distillery
- Workshop from the planting of sugarcane to the final product
- MasterClass and Tasting Experience:
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- Rum North Natural 40%
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- Rum North Natural 60%
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- Rum North "Barrica Nova" 40% (3 months)
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- Rum North - 3 years - 40%
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- Rum 970 - 6 years - 40%
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- Rum 980 - 40%
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- Single Casck
NOTE
After booking we will send all the details of the reservation, as well as the location and the contact of the farmer.
If you wish to propose another day or time for the experience, send us a message and we will do our best to reschedule, or we can include one more experience for all day.
Adventure Tips
Arrive early
Get the most out of your tour by arriving a few minutes early to settle in and enjoy the exhibits.
Hydrate and wear comfortable shoes
Tours involve walking and tasting, so dress comfortably and stay hydrated.
Ask questions
Engage with guides to learn more about Madeira’s rum and sugar history.
Reserve in advance
Spaces are limited—book ahead to secure your spot in this popular experience.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Seabirds along the coast
- Farm cats at the mill
History
The Porto da Cruz mill has operated since the 19th century, contributing to Madeira’s economic growth through sugar and rum production.
Conservation
The site adheres to sustainable practices, preserving Madeira’s cultural heritage while minimizing environmental impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Funchal
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable shoes
The tour involves walking through the mill and exhibits, so wear comfortable shoes.
Camera or smartphone
Capture memories of the historic site and your tasting experience.
Light jacket or scarf
Indoor and outdoor spaces may vary in temperature.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during the tour.