Premium Walking & Hiking in Madeira - 6 Days

Itinerary

• Day 1: FunchalArrival Day

  Ola! Welcome to Portugal. Your adventure begins in Funchal – the capital of the Madeira archipelago, renowned for its scenic harbour, lush gardens and historic wine cellars. When you arrive in Funchal, you’ll be met by a local representative and transferred to your feature stay hotel, before your welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, maybe wander through the traditional Mercado dos Lavradores farmers' market, visit the Funchal Cathedral, take a scenic cable car ride to Monte, relax in the Madeira Botanical Garden or - for those that love soccer - explore the life and career of Cristiano Ronaldo at the CR7 museum dedicated to the football star. After the meeting, enjoy a relaxed evening at a local restaurant, where you’ll get your first taste of Madeira’s cuisine while getting to know your expert tour leader and fellow travellers.

• Day 2: Funchal & Ponta de Sao Lourenco hike

  After breakfast and a short drive it's time to lace up your hiking boots and head out on your first guided hike - and it's a special one! Often called The Dragon’s Tail, the Vereda da Ponta de Sao Lourenco is one of Madeira’s most scenic hikes. This loop trail winds along a narrow, rugged peninsula leading to the island’s easternmost point only accessible on foot. As you walk, take in dramatic cliffs, volcanic rock formations shaped by millions of years of erosion, and ocean views on both sides. Pause for a relaxing lunch before heading back to Funchal for the afternoon where you have ample free time to explore this historic town.

• Day 3: 25 Fontes/Levada do Risco hikes, Porto Moniz & Arco de Sao Jorge

  Start the day with a short drive to the west of the island to enjoy your second guided hike from Levada as you weave along the green edged tracks through laurel forest to the Risco Waterfall. Have your camera ready when you arrive to capture Risco Falls as it cascades over 100 m down the mountainside. This hike also passes by the 25 water springs that come down from Paul da Serra and give the 25 Fontes hike its name. After the hike enjoy a scenic picnic lunch before driving to the tiny coastal town of Porto Moniz at the very northern tip of the island. When you arrive set off on an orientation walk amongst the red roof buildings and - if the weather’s nice - take a refreshing dip and soothe your hiking muscles in the picturesque natural volcanic rock pools. In the late afternoon, travel to Arco de Sao Jorge and settle into your comfortable hotel, your home for the next three nights.

• Day 4: Arco de Sao Jorge & Boaventura Coastal hike

  Begin your day with a guided scenic coastal hike from the doorstep of your hotel to nearby Boaventura, taking in vast views of the Atlantic Ocean along the wooden walkways that hug the dramatic cliff faces of the north coast. This route winds along the coast and features plenty of ups and downs – but always with stunning views along the way. After, visit the local Quinta do Barbusano winery to learn about Madeira’s unique winemaking traditions, then indulge in a wine tasting of a few local drops. Sit down for a traditional lunch made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, all paired with regional wines. In the afternoon, return to the hotel to rest or choose an optional short hike to further explore the local area.

• Day 5: Arco de Sao Jorge & Pico do Ruivo guided hike

  Today, embark on the rewarding guided hike along the Vereda do Pico do Ruivo – at 1862m it is Madeira’s highest peak. While this is the most challenging hike on the trip with many stone stairs, it is also the most spectacular as you take in the mountain views and surrounding rock formations (often eerily covered by mist and clouds). The views alone make the hike worthwhile. After, maybe stop for lunch at a nearby cafe in Achada do Teixiera before visiting a local rum distillery in coastal Porto da Cruz for a tasting experience of the famed ‘Madeira brandy’. Next, stop in the small town of Santana for an orientation walk to explore its traditional houses before returning to your comfortable hotel in the evening to celebrate your journey with a farewell dinner with the group.

• Day 6: Arco de Sao Jorge

  With no activities planned for today, your trip comes to an end after breakfast. If you’d like to extend your stay, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time to arrange additional accommodation.