WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE HOUSE OF THE VIMES TOUR MADEIRA – APPROX. 4 HOURS

About this wheelchair accessible House of the Vimes tour

This House of the Vimes tour starts from the cruise port or your accommodation. It includes adapted transport that is waiting for you upon arrival. Your driver guide, who you find by the sign he is holding with your name on it, helps you to get in the vehicle. When you are ready, you are off to your first stop: a viewpoint with overwhelmingly gorgeous panoramas.

Caniço – Garajau Viewpoint

After a short drive, you get to the Garajau Viewpoint. At this viewpoint, there is a large sculpture of Christ-King, also known as the Sacred Heart statue, made by the French sculptor Georges Serraz. The figure opens his arms and faces the ocean. Besides the sculpture, you can enjoy the fantastic views of the sea.

Camacha – House of the Vimes

Once you have taken in your surroundings and shot some holiday snaps, it is time to go to the next stop on your tour: Camacha – House of the Vimes. At this cafe/wicker factory, you see the art of wicker making and get the chance to buy a typical Madeiran souvenir to bring home.

Wickerwork originated in 1850 on the island of Madeira. Here you find the most significant production of goods made from the willow tree. Each willow tree produces about 2 to 5 kilos of usable willow branches. Before they can be made into furniture, baskets, suitcases, or other household items, the willow must be dried and follow a thorough treatment process. Learn everything about this process and more at this interesting little factory.

Besides the art of wicker making, you have the option to try the traditional cider, Madeiran traditional drink made with Pero.

Santo Da Serra

If you are enjoying this tour on Saturday or Sunday, you can go to the market where you find loads of locally produced goods. This market is another place where you can taste the cider, enjoy delicacies, and wander around to find gems to take home.

Quinta Do Santo Da Serra

Your tour continues to Quinta Do Santo Da Serra. A big mansion in the English colonial style that was built in the 19th century. Once owned by the Blandy Family, but sold to the ex-Funchal District General Council.

On the back-side of the house, there is a romantic garden with a viewpoint that offers gorgeous views, also known as the ‘Miradouro dos Ingleses.’ Enjoy the views over the Machico valley and take a look at the several animals wandering the property.

Portela viewpoint

Your last stop on this tour brings you to the Portela viewpoint, with the most beautiful views of the island. From the rocky mountains to deep valleys that flow towards the ocean. You can see Porto da Cruz, Penha d’Águia, and also a big part of Santana.