Hiking in Madeira

Ola! Welcome to Funchal – the capital of Portugal’s Madeira archipelago, renowned for its scenic harbour, lush gardens and historic wine cellars. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, maybe visit the Gothic-Romanesque Cathedral, walk around the Sao Tiago Fortress, explore the local markets or enjoy some fresh seafood by the waterfront. After your welcome meeting, head out to optional dinner and get to know your group before hitting the trails tomorrow.

Today, enjoy a free morning in Funchal or explore the city at your own pace. After early lunch, travel by private transport from Funchal to Estreito de Camara de Lobos. From here, embark on the Levada do Norte hike, taking in the ocean views as you walk towards Cabo Girao – one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe. When you arrive in Cabo Girao, perhaps relax with a picnic lunch. This afternoon, you’ll travel to Jardim do Mar for a leader-led orientation walk. Explore this peaceful town known for its traditional Madeiran lifestyle and lovely gardens. To end the day, enjoy a refreshing glass of Poncha (a local drink made from sugarcane rum, honey and lemon).

This morning, you’ll start in Paul do Mar with a steep climb along the historic PR19 Caminho Real. The stone staircase winds sharply uphill, quickly rewarding you with sweeping views over the Atlantic, rugged cliffs, and the village far below. At the top, continue into Prazeres and follow quiet roads before joining the Levada Nova path toward Estreito da Calheta. Here, the terrain levels out, and you’ll enjoy an easy walk through green farmland and terraces, with occasional coastal vistas along the way. After reaching Calheta, begin your descent toward Jardim do Mar on paved roads, taking in wide ocean views as you return to the coast. Once there, you might spend some time exploring this quiet seaside village, known for its dramatic setting and relaxed atmosphere.

Travel to the Fanal forest, where you’ll start today’s hike. Follow the Vereda do Fanal trail through ancient laurel trees and woodlands. Afterwards, travel to the Ribeira da Janela viewpoint, where you can admire spectacular views of the rugged coastline and dramatic valley. Continue to Seixal for a leader-led orientation walk through the village’s charming streets, followed by some time to cool off with a swim in Seixal’s natural volcanic swimming pools. Later today, travel to Machico, where you’ll spend the night.

This morning, private transport will take you to Porto da Cruz, where you’ll begin today’s hike towards Machico. This marvellous coastal hike takes around six hours and covers approximately 15km, combining spectacular coastal scenery with beautiful sections through Madeira’s lush Laurisilva forest. Along the way, enjoy fantastic views over the rugged coastline and surrounding landscapes, with a beautiful spot to maybe stop for a picnic lunch and take in the scenery. Your efforts are rewarded as you reach Machico, Madeira’s historic first capital, where you’ll finish the hike on the beach. Take some well-deserved time to relax by the sea before returning to your accommodation.

This morning, you’ll travel to Achada do Teixeira – the gateway to Pico do Ruivo, the highest peak on Madeira. Hike along the Vereda do Pico do Ruivo and take in the impressive mountain views and dramatic rock formations, which are sometimes shrouded in clouds. After the hike, travel to Santana, where you’ll have time for a non-included lunch and a chance to explore the village and see its traditional triangular houses, known as palheiros. This afternoon, continue to the coast for the Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço hike, famous for its dramatic cliffs and striking coastal scenery. This trail showcases Madeira’s unique volcanic landscape and offers panoramic ocean views. Later today, head back to Machico for your last night and perhaps enjoy a farewell dinner with your group to celebrate an epic trip.

There are no activities planned for today and you can depart at any time. If you’d like to extend your stay and explore Madeira further, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.