Tour Highlight: Madeira Walking Tour
Discover the Pearl of the Atlantic on our week-long walking tour in Madeira. Despite its small size, this volcanic island is bursting with beauty, from its unique geological formations to its breathtaking coastlines and timeless traditions. Immerse yourself in the landscapes as you walk along cliff tops to Ponta da Sao Lourenco and past alluring waterfalls. At the end of each day, experience local life, sipping Madeiran wine in quaint, local towns and villages.
Why We Love This Trip:
- Levada Paths: Witness Madeira’s beauty at its best on several picturesque walks alongside the island’s unique irrigation channels.
- The Balcony Walk: Marvel at spectacular mountain views along this famous path between the peaks of Arieiro and Ruivo.
- Funchal: Explore the laid-back capital with its beautiful gardens, historic buildings, and colorful farmers’ market.
- Christmas and New Year Departures: Immerse yourself in the festive season with Christmas markets, midnight mass, and Funchal’s epic fireworks.
Included Meals:
Trip Staff:
- Explore Tour Leader
- Driver(s)
Transport:
Accommodation:
- 7 nights comfortable hotel
Walking Grade: Moderate
Itinerary:
Day 1 – Join trip in Santana:
- Begin in Santana on Madeira’s north coast. Explore the village known for ‘Bordado da Madeira’ embroidery and traditional thatched houses.
- Optional welcome meeting and dinner.
Day 2 – Scenic coastal walk to Porto da Cruz:
- Walk through agricultural land to Boca do Risco, enjoying panoramic views and wildlife sightings.
- Visit a sugar cane factory and rum distillery for optional tasting.
Day 3 – Walk through Laurisilva Forest to Faja do Penedo:
- Trek from Boaventura to the coast, passing a hidden waterfall and entering the UNESCO-protected Laurel Forest.
- Explore Porto Moniz’s volcanic rock pools.
Day 4 – Hike Levada do Alecrim to Risco Waterfall:
- Follow Levada do Alecrim to Lagoa do Vento, then continue to Risco Waterfall and House of Rabaal for lunch.
Day 5 – Visit the westernmost tip and levada Nova Valley walk:
- Explore Ponta do Vigia before walking the Levada Nova from Lombada to Ribeira Brava.
- Stop at Miradouro do Tanque and arrive in Funchal.
Day 6 – Explore Funchal; Optional activities:
- Guided orientation walk of Funchal or explore independently.
- Optional activities include wine tasting, whale watching, or exploring Monte.
Day 7 – Walk to Pico de Ruivo, Madeira’s highest point:
- Trek from Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruivo, passing through tunnels and steep sections.
- Return to Funchal for a relaxing evening.
Day 8 – Trip ends in Funchal:
- Depart at your leisure from Funchal.
Tour Considerations:
- Moderate walks with some steep sections and exposed areas.
- Trails may be adapted due to weather conditions.
- Pack accordingly for the season and enjoy local cuisine during evening meals.
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