Porto Moniz sits at the far north-west corner of Madeira, where long lava flows met the sea and cooled into a maze of rock basins. The waves of the open Atlantic break over the outer rocks and refill the pools with clear seawater, so you can swim in calm, natural lagoons while the ocean crashes a few metres away. The village has turned the main pools into a simple bathing complex, and they are one of the island’s most memorable swims. On the way, the road crosses the Paul da Serra plateau, a high moorland that feels nothing like the tropical coast, and the Fanal forest, where centuries-old laurel trees stand twisted and moss-hung in a grassy clearing that is often wrapped in mist, an otherworldly scene beloved by photographers. The Tiqets volcanic pools and forest tour links these with the Véu da Noiva, the bridal veil waterfall falling straight into the sea near Seixal, in one 4x4 day from Funchal.
How it works: the tour is a guided open-top 4x4 day from Funchal, with pickup in the centre and in Caniço de Baixo included. The ticket includes the lava pool swim, a live guide, local taxes and insurance; lunch and tips are extra, cruise dock pickup costs a small supplement and pickup outside Funchal and Caniço is charged too. Free cancellation is available until a day before, but this tour cannot be rescheduled.
What to expect: a long day of mountain roads, so it suits people who do not mind twists and turns. The Fanal forest is often foggy and cool, the plateau can be cold and windy, and Porto Moniz itself is usually milder. The Atlantic is cooler than the Mediterranean all year, and rough seas can close the pools, so be flexible about the swim. Bring swimwear, a towel, water shoes and a warm layer.
Making the most of it: if you have your own car, arrive at Porto Moniz early before the tour coaches, then drive the north coast east to Seixal’s black-sand beach. In autumn and winter, check the forecast, because north-coast swells are common. Pair it on another day with the Levada das 25 Fontes, which starts on the same plateau.
What to expect
The experience
A guided 4x4 day trip across the plateau and the Fanal laurel forest to the lava rock pools of Porto Moniz, with a swim and coastal viewpoints.
Best time
A calm, sunny day, when the pools are open and the Fanal mist is light enough for photos.
How long
A full day from Funchal, with an hour or more at the pools.
Tips
Pack swimwear, water shoes and a warm layer, and remember this tour cannot be rescheduled once booked.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want a swim with a difference and the wild landscapes of the north-west in one day.
- Families
- Children love the sheltered pools, though the drive is long and winding for anyone prone to car sickness.
- Couples
- Walk among the old laurels of Fanal in the mist, then swim with the Atlantic breaking beside you.
- Pair with
- The Levada das 25 Fontes on the same plateau on another day.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
Can you swim in the Porto Moniz natural pools all year?+
The pools are open through the year, but rough seas can close them on stormy days. The water is cooler than many expect, especially outside summer.
What is the Fanal forest?+
Fanal is an area of very old laurel trees on the high ground above Porto Moniz, part of Madeira’s UNESCO-listed laurel forest. It is famous for its misty, almost mystical atmosphere.
Is the pool entry included in the Tiqets tour?+
Yes, the tour includes the lava pool swim along with the guide, local taxes and insurance. Lunch and tips are extra.
How far is Porto Moniz from Funchal?+
It is at the opposite corner of the island, around an hour or more by road depending on the route. Tours make several stops on the way.
Can I change the date of this tour?+
Not on this product; rescheduling is not possible. Free cancellation is available up to twenty-four hours before.
