Grottes de São Vicente
A must-visit geological wonder in São Vicente, the volcanic caves offer a mesmerizing underground journey through ancient lava tubes, illuminated pathways, and a small museum showcasing Madeira's volcanic origins.
Lieu et adresse
The São Vicente Caves are located in the picturesque village of São Vicente, on the northern coast of Madeira, Portugal. The exact address is:
- Estrada Regional 101, 9240-039 São Vicente, Madeira, Portugal
Se rendre sur place
The caves are easily accessible by car or public transport from Funchal and other parts of Madeira.
- By Car: From Funchal, take the VR1 motorway towards Ribeira Brava, then follow the ER101 coastal road to São Vicente. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes.
- By Bus: Rodoeste bus lines 6, 139, or 150 connect Funchal to São Vicente. The bus stop is a short walk from the caves.
Heures d'ouverture et billets
The caves are open year-round, with slight seasonal variations in hours.
- Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (last admission at 5:30 PM).
- Entrance Fees: Adults €8.50, children (5-14) €5.00, seniors (65+) €6.50. Family tickets and group discounts are available.
- Tickets: Can be purchased at the entrance or online via the official website.
Meilleur moment pour visiter
To avoid crowds, early mornings or late afternoons are ideal. The caves maintain a constant temperature year-round, making them a pleasant visit in any season.
Durée de la visite
A typical visit lasts about 30-45 minutes, including the guided tour and time to explore the volcanic formations.
Activités
Visitors can enjoy a guided tour through the lava tubes, learning about the geological history of Madeira. The tour includes multimedia presentations and a walk through illuminated tunnels.
Installations
- Restrooms available near the entrance.
- Small gift shop selling souvenirs and local products.
- Parking is available on-site for a small fee.
- The caves are partially accessible for visitors with reduced mobility.
Informations sur le contact
- Website: www.grutasecentrodovulcanismo.pt
- Phone: +351 291 842 404
Ce qu'il faut apporter/vêtir
- Comfortable walking shoes with good grip, as the paths can be slippery.
- A light jacket, as the caves are cool (around 16°C/61°F).
- Camera for capturing the unique formations (flash photography is permitted).
Règles et règlements
- Children must be supervised at all times.
- No pets allowed inside the caves.
- Smoking and eating are prohibited during the tour.