Hello Leena,
We wanted to pass on our review! And a massive thank you to Miguel, we were blown away, he is a phenomenal tour guide! We had the most amazing time with Miguel!
He showed us the most magical parts of Madeira, we disembarked from our cruise and there he was waiting right outside the ship.
He made all our stops as accessible as he could, even carrying a ramp with him at one of our stops.
His taxi is fully accessible for a manual wheelchair and for smaller powered chairs. He takes out the middle row - so unlike most UK vehicles the person needed the extra help isn't at the back of the taxi. Leaving a further 4 seats (1 in the front with Miguel) in his spotlessly clean and comfortable mercedes!
We asked Miguel to show us his favourite spots in Madeira, as he is a local so has a far better knowledge than us. He took us to the most breathtaking locations, telling us facts along the way.
First stop: Eira do serrado - the nuns valley, 180° of mountains, with only a 5 minute walk from the car (for those walking). However Miguel helped by pushing the wheelchair to the accessible viewpoint. For others wanting to climb the stairs it will take you to 1095 meters above see level, over looking the village below.
Note on destination - Lovely souvenir shop with a toilet located inside shop down 2 flights of stairs with 1€ fee per person. (No mention of an accessible toilet)
Next stop: Miguel asked us if we would like to see the other side of Eira do serrado, taking us to Madeiras highest sea cliff edge, Cabot girão, this is a view you will never be able to describe, looking out at see and not seeing where the sky and sea meets. For those feeling more daring there is a glass floor to walk over standing 580m above sea level. Miguel carried a accessible ramp from the taxi so we would all enjoy the experience. However on site also is a stair lift if the person can transfer, they are able to use.
This is a 3€ charge per person - the wheelchair user doesn't have to pay.
A small cafe available (with no access) but two tables outside.
A small souvenir shop and toilets (female, male, and a disabled toilet) 50c each. Please be aware that if you are assisting someone you will need to pay 50c to enter the toilet also.
Our next stop was Câmara de Lobos this is known as the fishing village, a quaint little cove, where you could see the boats and walk around the village, follow the sea around where there were lots of independent restaurants, all with a beautiful view of Samara de Lobo's, Miguel carried on pushing the wheelchair, over the cobbles (some flatter routes, for a less bumpy ride) he took us into a little restaurant where it showed the history of the 1950's where prime minister sir Winston Churchill came to paint his landscapes. This is beautifully decorated and Miguel showed us around - clearly knowing the locals.
There is also a bathroom here for females and males along with a disabled access toilet.
They have beautiful decorations that change every couple of months.
Our final trip was back to Funchal, Miguel's home town, where we took a small walk through the centre, it was lovely seeing all the shops and the history of Funchal, the culture and the love that Miguel has. We sat here and enjoyed a coffee and cake (they also sell a delicious glass of sangria). Miguel told us about some parts of his life and how he even has banana plants in his garden, that he even gave to us! We have never tasted bananas like them!
He then returned us back to the ship at the time we asked, ready for the sail away.
It was lovely having a tour guide that isn't rushed, that truly loves his job, showing people the magic before your eyes and all that Madeira has to offer.
We saw a small section of this today and loved every second. You are a font of information!
I work at a charity supporting physically disabled adults and I would happily recommend him, to anyone.
Thank you for making our day in Madeira a day to remember truly incredible! Thank you Miguel.
Bestest wishes,
Leanne, Ross, Barry and Tracey
(Ventura / 18.06.2025 Madeira)