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, you’ll set off on your first hike. 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. After, travel to Seixal for a leader-led orientation walk through the village’s streets. Take some time to cool off with a swim in Seixal’s natural volcanic swimming pools before visiting the Miradouro de Veu da Noiva viewpoint, famous for its cliffside views and cascading waterfalls. Later today, travel to Santo António da Serra, where you’ll spend the night.

Your hike starts in Machico today – Madeira’s historic first capital, known for its harbours and beaches. Follow the scenic coastal trails to Porto da Cruz and take in the sweeping views of the town’s orange-roofed houses. After the hike, maybe visit the local rum distillery. Here, you can taste authentic Madeiran rum and learn about its production. Later today, set out on a walk through Santana – a rural village known for its traditional triangular houses called palheiros. Tonight, you’ll travel back to Santo Antonio da Serra, where you’ll spend the night.

This morning, you’ll travel to Achada do Teixeira – the gateway to Pico do Ruivo, the highest peak on Madeira. Hike along Vereda do Pico do Ruivo and take in the mountain views and rock formations (sometimes covered by clouds). After, maybe stop for lunch at a nearby cafe. This afternoon, set out on the Vereda da Ponta de Sao Lourenco hike, famous for its dramatic cliffs and coastal scenery. This trail showcases the island’s unique volcanic landscape and offers panoramic ocean views. Later today, head back to Santo Antonio da Serra for your last night and maybe go to 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 Santa Antonio da Serra further, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.