Madeira: Hiking & Culture

Welcome to Madeira! Upon arrival at Funchal airport, you'll be transferred to your hotel. In the evening, join your fellow travelers and tour guide for a welcome dinner at a nearby restaurant.

After breakfast, we'll embark on a walking tour of Funchal. We'll explore the city's charming streets and squares, marvel at the artist-painted doors in Rua de Santa Maria, and visit the beautiful cathedral. We'll also visit the bustling market hall and a traditional bakery, where you'll get to taste local pastries. The day will conclude with a visit to Madeira's oldest wine shop for a wine tasting session.

Today, we'll drive to the Paúl da Serra plateau via Ribeira Brava. We'll hike along a levada, enjoying the views of Calheta and the deep blue sea. Our journey will then take us to the village of Porto Moniz, impressively built into the lava cliffs. If the weather permits, you'll have the chance to refresh yourself in the natural seawater pools. After a lunch of typical island specialties, we'll return to the hotel via the villages of São Vicente and Serra da Água.

Today, we'll explore the São Lourenço Peninsula, known for its rocky landscapes that contrast with the rest of the evergreen island. We'll hike through the unique nature along the cliff, with the deep blue sea shimmering below. After the hike, we'll visit the beautiful town of Machico.

Today is yours to enjoy as you wish. You can relax by the pool or explore the many museums in Funchal. Alternatively, you can opt for an excursion to Monte to visit the pilgrimage church and the botanical garden (additional cost).

In the morning, we'll visit the town of Santana, known for its traditional thatched houses. We'll then hike from Queimadas along the Levada do Caldeirão through the green laurel forest of Laurisilva, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. Our destination is the spectacular Caldeirão Verde valley basin, where a waterfall plunges into a small, idyllic lake. After a picnic break, we'll hike back.

Today, we'll visit the beautiful garden of Quinta Vigia, the President's residence. We'll then visit the Quinta das Cruzes, which was the residence of the island discoverer Zarcos. Today, it houses the Museum of Decorative Arts with a collection of furniture, tableware, paintings, and silver. In the well-kept garden, you'll find stone exhibits and old trees.

In the morning, we'll visit the viewpoint of Pico de Barcelos, offering panoramic views of Funchal. We'll then head to Eira do Serrado, located above the village of Curral das Freiras, for more breathtaking views. Our next stop is the impressive cliff of Cabo Girao. Finally, we'll visit the small fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, where you'll taste the local specialty Espetada and a traditional drink called Poncha.

Today, we'll walk along the Levada dos Tornos, located above Funchal, through green forests. We'll then visit the Palheiro Garden, considered the most beautiful in Madeira, where you can enjoy a piece of cake and tea (not included). In the evening, we'll dine together at a lovely restaurant in town.

Our memorable tour comes to an end today. You'll be transferred to the airport for your return flight. We hope you enjoyed your journey through Madeira and look forward to welcoming you back soon!