Madeira Cycle by E-Bike

On arrival at Funchal Airport, make your way to nearby Caniço for your overnight accommodation. Enjoy the location right by the beach. In the evening there will be a welcome briefing by your tour representative.

In the morning there is the transfer to Camacha, where your rental bikes will be fitted. This village is famous for its basket making. The cycle takes you on a lovely high road right towards the East Coast. Enjoy the beautiful views on the way to the little fishing village, Porto da Cruz. Relax here on the beach made out of volcanic sand or visit one of the last working sugar cane mills and rum distillery.

A long, steep ascent will be bridged by bus this morning to Santana, perched high above the ocean and the starting point of your cycle. A collection of colourful traditional, thatched farmhouses have been lovingly restored here and are open to visitors plus there are usually morning markets in the square, all with the back drop of the sweeping sea views. The cycle route goes along a beautiful road through small, charming villages whilst always running along the coast until you get to São Vicente. The village, named after Saint Vincent, is located right by the sea. It is however well-known for its 400,000-year-old grottoes.

A transfer will take you to the high plateau Paúl da Serra deep in the interior. From here, you get on your bike and follow the high road past grazing cows and sheep. A long descent will then lead you to the West Coast of the island. Before you get to Porto Moniz, a spectacular view will be a treat for your hard work today. Where you are staying tonight is well-known for its natural swimming pools. The sea formed small and large pools, which are popular places to swim by both locals and tourists alike.

Today’s stage takes you along the West Coast and right through the UNESCO world heritage site, Parque Natural da Madeira (Madeira Natural Park). You will cycle through fragrant forests and through small villages and you will always be accompanied by spectacular views of the sea, with every bend you turn. In the lively village Calheta, it was not only the yacht harbour that is manmade. For the artificial beach, sand was especially imported from Morocco. The former sugar cane village has become a popular place for locals and tourists alike.

For the first third of today‘s stage, you will cycle directly along the waterside towards the capital. From Ribeira Brava the route takes you uphill away from the coast and then you will reach a spectacular viewpoint on the island - Cabo Girao, where a transparent platform was built 580m above the sea. The view down over the highest cliffs in Europe is dizzying. A long descent will then bring you back to the coast and into the centre of Funchal, marking the end of your cycle. Colourful and lively are two strong impressions you will get from the capital of this island with its markets and alleyways of restaurants and bars.

Today we swap our bikes for our feet and travel by cable car to the popular destination of Monte. Previously a noble health resort with grand quintas, this area offers many possibilities nowadays for an interesting day. You can visit the pilgrimage church Nossa Senhora do Monte do Monte and the tropical garden Jardim Tropical Monte Palace. You could also go for a walk along the famous waterway, the “Levadas”.

The trip concludes after breakfast.