Madeira Hiking Adventure with Marisa Mae

Welcome to Madeira! After your arrival, our guide will pick you up and transfer you to your first accommodation, where you’ll be introduced to the journey ahead. During a brief briefing, our guide will provide an overview of the exciting days to come, detailing the tour itinerary and key highlights. Besides that, the day is yours to explore Porto Moniz. Wander through the picturesque streets of Porto Moniz, admire the stunning coastal views, and relax in the tranquil town square. Visit the iconic natural swimming pools, formed by volcanic rock and filled with crystal-clear seawater.

Explore the Madeira Aquarium to discover the region’s marine life, or take in breathtaking views from the Miradouro da Santa. Don’t forget to savor local specialties like grilled limpets and bolo do caco. Your adventure begins here—let the magic of Porto Moniz captivate you!

Overnight: Aqua Natura Bay (or similar)

Meals: -/-/D

Distance: 10 km Elevation / Gain: +200 m

Today's trail is in the area of the Laurissilva Forest. It has been classified by UNESCO as a Natural World Heritage site since 1999 and is a member of the European network of sites of community importance - Natura 2000.

Start in Paúl da Serra plateau and follow the trail to visit several viewpoints that reveal a set of beautiful landscapes, which highlight the valley of Ribeira da Janela and Chão da Ribeira. Pay attention to the area known as "Fio", where visitors can appreciate what is left of an ingenious apparatus of steel cables that were used to carry wood and shrubs collected in the Fanal forest.

Later you will arrive at Fanal, a small volcanic crater classified as a resting reserve of the Natural Park of Madeira with the centenary forest of Ocofeafoefens trees.

Overnight: Aqua Natura Bay (or similar)

Meals: B/-/D

Included services:

- Transfer to the beginning of the hike (25 min)

-Transfer from the end of the hike to the hotel (20 min)

Distance: 12 km Elevation  /  Gain: +400 m

Explore the westernmost wonders of Madeira!

After breakfast, we will check out of the hotel and head out on a new adventure. Today’s hike takes you to the serene beauty of Madeira’s westernmost region, starting near Ponta do Pargo in the Pedregal area after a comfortable transfer.

This enchanting hike through rural landscapes and lush nature offers extraordinary views of Ponta do Pargo, the valleys, and the surrounding mountains, immersing you in a magical atmosphere. You’ll follow the peaceful course of Levada Nova, a historic water channel that leads you through lush vegetation and vibrant flora. Along the way, the gentle sound of cascading waterfalls creates a soothing natural symphony, enhancing the tranquility of the journey. Pause at breathtaking viewpoints along the route, including the remarkable viewpoint near the Capela da Nossa Senhora da Boa Morte.

From this iconic spot, take in sweeping panoramic vistas of the mountains, the sea, and the pristine landscape that surrounds you. This hike will immerse you in the heart of Madeira’s nature, where maritime pines, eucalyptus, and the endemic Laurissilva Forest surround you. Spot species like the Canary Willow, Madeira Laurel, and Lily-of-the-Valley tree, making this experience both scenic and enriching. The route continues along a forest path that will take you back to the starting point of the hike, where your transfer awaits to take you back to your accommodation.

Hotel: Enotel Sunset Bay (or similar)

Meals: B/-/D

Included services:

- Transfer to the beginning of the hike (30 min)

- Transfer from the end of the hike to the hotel (30 min)

Distance: 10 km  /  Elevation Gain: +100 m

Explore Madeira’s Traditional “Levadas”

Today’s hike invites you to experience the tranquil beauty of the Levada do Moinho, a trail that is enchanting with its lush flora, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic valley views. You’ll also catch glimpses of the charming village of Ponta do Sol nestled in the landscape.

The adventure begins with a short transfer to the Lombada Church, just above Ponta do Sol, the trail’s starting point. From here, you’ll follow the historic Levada do Moinho, one of Madeira’s ingenious water channels designed to bring mountain water to the island’s villages. The path is mostly along a cliff edge but remains easy and enjoyable, offering fantastic views of the gorge, terraced farmlands, and serene countryside. As you walk, breathe in the crisp mountain air and listen to the soothing sound of water flowing through the levada. Dense vegetation and occasional waterfalls line the way, culminating in the stunning Nova Moinho waterfall - a perfect spot to pause and soak in the beauty of nature. As you return, the views open up to reveal the village of Ponta do Sol and the shimmering Atlantic Ocean beyond. After this revitalizing hike, you’ll return to your accommodation, where you can unwind and enjoy some well-deserved relaxation.

HOTEL: Enotel Sunset Bay (or similar)

Meals: B/-/D

Included services:

- Transfer to the beginning of the Hike (20 min)

Distance: 10 km  /  Elevation Gain: +100 m

Discover One of Madeira’s Most Beloved Trails!

After a delightful breakfast, a transfer will take you to the starting point of an extraordinary hiking experience. Begin with a gentle descent to Rabaçal, following a scenic path that reveals the stunning Levada do Risco waterfall. Surrounded by lush vegetation, vibrant fruit orchards, and picturesque gardens, this journey immerses you in the heart of Madeira’s UNESCO-listed Laurissilva Forest. Your adventure continues to the iconic Lagoa das 25 Fontes (Lagoon of the 25 Springs), one of Madeira’s most popular and breathtaking trails. This serene lagoon, fed by waters descending from the Mountain Marsh (Paul da Serra), offers a tranquil oasis framed by cascading springs and endemic flora. The levada itself, built in 1835, is a masterpiece of engineering and a testament to the island’s rich heritage.

A transfer will take you back to your accommodation, where you can unwind while admiring the surrounding nature or delight in Madeira’s flavorful local cuisine - the perfect ending to an unforgettable day.

HOTEL: Enotel Sunset Bay (or similar)

Meals: B/-/D

Distance: 6 km  /  Elevation Gain: +600 m

A Day of Ocean and Mountain Adventures.

The day begins with a unique experience: an exciting whale-watching excursion, where you’ll have the chance to see some of the ocean’s most impressive creatures up close, including whales and dolphins, which are frequently spotted off the coast of Madeira.

After this maritime adventure, the day continues with another hike through the island’s rugged landscapes, guiding you along trails surrounded by its stunning natural beauty. Located on the west side of Madeira Island, this is one of the few routes available for the population to access the coastline. It is an opportunity to walk calmly and absorb the seashore landscape and the land filled with terraced farm plots held in place by stone walls. This municipal path is a genuine historical heritage, bearing witness to the isolation of past generations and the ingenious and difficult trails built by the people to overcome it. The day will end with a short transfer back, but make sure to explore Paúl do Mar, an old fishing village known for the export of tuna, which has a small and lovely parish on the seashore and stunning views of the cliffs.

HOTEL: Enotel Sunset Bay (or similar)

Meals: B/-/D

Included services:

- Transfer to the Whale Watching (20 min)

- Transfer to the beginning of the hike (25 min)

- Transfer from the end of the hike to the hotel (25 min)

Distance: 11 km  /  Elevation Gain: +500 m

Above the clouds and amidst Madeira’s highest peaks!

Get ready to experience one of Madeira’s most iconic hikes, from Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo, a stunning trail that connects the island’s highest peaks. This legendary route, built 50 years ago, offers unparalleled views and an adventure through Madeira’s rugged landscapes. Your journey begins with a short transfer to just below Pico do Areeiro, where you'll be greeted by breathtaking 360-degree views of the island and the refreshing mountain air.

From here, you'll start your hike. Expect some challenging climbs and descents, but the effort will be more than rewarded by the spectacular panoramas of Madeira’s dramatic terrain and coastline. As you walk, you’ll pass landmarks such as the Miradouro Ninho da Manta and Pedra Rija, renowned viewpoints that showcase the island’s natural beauty. As you approach Pico Ruivo, Madeira’s highest peak, you’ll walk along the ridge, with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. The final section of the trail offers a more relaxing walk with stunning ocean views on one side and the towering peaks on the other, taking you to Achada do Teixeira, where your hike ends.

Before heading back to your accommodation, don’t miss the unique 'Homem em Pé' (Standing Man), a striking rock formation that looks like a man standing tall against the sky.

HOTEL: Enotel Sunset Bay (or similar)

Meals: B/-/D

Included services:

- Transfer to the beginning of the hike (30 min)

- Transfer from the beginning of the hike to the hotel (30 min)

That’s it! This incredible journey comes to an end… According to your schedule and preferences, your transfer will be arranged. If you’re looking to extend your adventure, consider staying an extra night in Funchal, exploring another captivating city, or even adding an extra day of hiking. Ask us for suggestions! 

Meals: B

Included services:

- Transfer to Funchal (30 min)

TBD