Walking in Madeira
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable 8-day journey through the enchanting landscapes of Madeira. This multi-day tour offers a unique blend of cultural immersion, scenic hikes, and culinary delights. Starting in the picturesque village of Santana, you'll explore traditional thatched houses, lush agricultural lands, and breathtaking viewpoints. Traverse the unique levadas (irrigation canals) and marvel at the exotic flora and fauna. Discover the hidden gems of Boaventura and Porto Moniz, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Funchal, Madeira's capital. From the majestic Lagoa do Vento to the highest peak at Pico Ruivo, every day brings a new adventure. This tour is perfect for those who love nature, enjoy walking, and have a taste for local cuisine.
Included
A key facet of our responsible approach to tourism is that we encourage our groups to eat in local restaurants that prepare locally grown food. We give customers choice as to their meals and do not use rather bland and impersonal hotel restaurants or all- inclusive options
7 Breakfasts
vegetarian, vegan, meat
Minibus
7 nights in hand-picked hotels.
hotel: 7 night(s);
Tour Leaders are quite simply the glue that holds our tours together. They are chosen for their travel experience and people skills and are thoroughly trained by Explore, widely acknowledged as some of the best training in the industry. A Tour Leader's ultimate aim is to ensure everyone is well looked after and have a fantastic trip. They are there to ensure that the tour logistics run smoothly, that health and safety is adhered to and provide comprehensive briefings at the beginning and throughout the tour.
All accommodation, activities and meals that are shown in the itinerary are included in the total cost of your trip You will also receive a complimentary transfer to and from the airport if you arrive on day 1 of the trip and depart on the last day and have provided your international flight information.
Destinations
Santana
Ponta do Sol
Funchal
Porto Moniz
Porto da CruzMap
Attractions
Levada do Alecrim
Túnel das Poças do Gomes
Pico Ruivo
Levada dos Maroços
Miradouro do Juncal
Levada do Paul
Poço da NeveDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Santana
- Santana - Arrival day
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- Monte Palace Madeira
- Palheiro Gardens
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Welcome to the charming village of Santana, renowned for its traditional thatched houses, known as 'palheiros', and the famous 'Bordado da Madeira' embroidery. Your tour leader will meet you at the hotel reception at 7pm for a welcome meeting. If you arrive early, you can explore the village and try some of the local seafood dishes that Madeira is famous for.
Day 2 – Day 2: Levada Walk to Porto da Cruz
- Santana
- Porto da Cruz
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- Poço da Neve
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Today, we embark on a scenic walk through lush agricultural lands and along a levada, leading us to the stunning viewpoint of Boca do Risco. We continue our journey along the cliff tops, soaking in panoramic views and spotting local wildlife. Our walk concludes at the quaint village of Porto da Cruz. On our way back to Santana, we'll stop at a sugar cane factory and rum distillery for an optional tasting.
Day 3 – Day 3: From Boaventura to Porto Moniz
- Porto Moniz
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- Poço da Neve
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Our journey today begins in Boaventura, a picturesque hamlet nestled on a hilltop. We'll hike through a hidden waterfall and the lush UNESCO-protected Laurel Forest, following the Levada dos Tornos. As we approach the coast, we'll be rewarded with sweeping views of the valley. Our day concludes in Porto Moniz, known for its unique volcanic rock pools.
Day 4 – Day 4: Exploring Rabaçal
- Tabua
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- Levada do Alecrim
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Today's adventure takes us to Rabaçal, where we'll follow the Levada do Alecrim, one of Madeira's most beautiful levadas. We'll explore the endemic flora and enjoy views of the Rabaçal and Ribeira da Janela valleys. Our journey leads us to the majestic Lagoa do Vento, a river basin formed by a waterfall. After a rest, we'll walk through the Laurel Forest to reach the House of Rabaçal for lunch.
Day 5 – Day 5: From Ponta do Vigia to Funchal
- Ponta do Sol
- Funchal
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- Funchal Cathedral
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Today, we'll head to the south coast, stopping at Ponta do Vigia, the westernmost tip of the island. We'll explore the lighthouse and its museum before starting our walk from Lombada. Our path will take us around the hillside, offering views over the coastline and villages of Ribeira Brava. Our day ends in the vibrant city of Funchal, where we'll stay for the next three nights at the Hotel do Carmo (or similar).
Day 6 – Day 6: Exploring Funchal
- Funchal
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- Levada dos Maroços
- Blandy's Wine Lodge (former Adegas de São Francisco)
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Today, you have the option to join a guided tour of Funchal or explore the city at your own pace. Discover the narrow, cobbled lanes, vibrant restaurants, and art and craft shops. Visit the Mercado dos Lavradores or a Madeiran embroidery workshop. Don't miss the opportunity to taste a variety of Madeiran wine at Blandy's Wine Lodge. In the afternoon, choose between a half-day cruise, a visit to the botanic gardens, or a cable car ride to the tropical gardens at Monte.
Day 7 – Day 7: From Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruivo
- Porto da Cruz
- Funchal
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- Levada do Alecrim
- Pico Ruivo
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Today's walk is a challenging but rewarding one. We'll start at Pico Arieiro and follow the trail to the summit of Pico Ruivo, Madeira's highest point. The trail offers stunning views and passes through several tunnels, so remember to bring your torch. After descending to Achada de Texeira, we'll return to Funchal by bus. Spend your final night in Madeira enjoying local cuisine on the harbourfront or in the old town.
Day 8 – Day 8: Departure from Funchal
- Funchal - Departure day
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Our unforgettable journey through Madeira comes to an end today. After breakfast at our hotel in Funchal, you're free to depart at any time. If your flight is later in the day, you can store your luggage at the hotel. We hope you leave with fond memories and new friendships!
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