8 Days
Hiking Trip
8 people
Located nearly 1000 kilometers from the coast of West Africa, Madeira is a Portuguese island loaded with stunning views, lush subtropical jungle, it won’t be long before we fall in love with this island just like I did. We’ll hike to the highest point on the island, Pico Ruivo, follow the forgotten paths commissioned by old kings and swim in the natural pools of Porto Moniz. We’ll also try our hand at canyoning, spend an afternoon wine tasting and see amazing sunrises and sunsets together.
This is where the landscapes of Hawaii meet the history and traditions of old Europe.
This tour is all about exploring the natural beauty of this island, so, comfortable shoes and a desire to have fun are paramount!
A friendly face will meet you at the Madeira Airport and transfer you to our accommodation in Funchal. Check-in at the accommodation in Funchal, in time for our welcome dinner of course!
For dinner, I will be taking you guys somewhere special – here we will taste some delicious local food and wine while we go over the week and schedule.
We will have an early night tonight; tomorrow is a busy day!
This morning we get up early because a wonderful Sunrise hike awaits us.
Madeira is often dubbed the island where it is always spring due to its mild climate and sheer natural beauty. This morning we wake up at dawn to tackle one of the most beautiful hikes on the island, Pico do Areeiro - Pico Ruivo. We have about 5-6 hours of walking ahead of us (1,000m elevation gain), so let’s put on our walking boots and let the views talk for themselves!
On the roof of Madeira!
Pico Ruivo is the highest mountain on the island at 1862 metres. We set off on the trail and seek to maintain a good pace, crossing our fingers the weather promises clarity so we can soak up all the scenery. Once we reach the peaks, there is one last push to reach the summit, and although the overhangs are daunting, the path is safe and there are handrails in place. After a packed lunch, we make our way back down the mountain to the cars, ready for a well-deserved evening of relaxation!
Let’s get our adrenalin pumping for 5-6hrs with canyoning, an immersive experience where you descend the course of a river by climbing, swimming, sliding and jumping! With its water-carved gorges, waterfalls and lush vegetation, Madeira is considered the best country in the world to do this sport!
What’s included on the day:
• Free Photos of the Activity
• Certified Technical Gear (Neoprene suit; Canyoning Shoes; Neoprene socks; Helmet; Harness; Carabiners; Descenders and Lanyards, lifejacket if necessary)
• Safety Insurance
• Permits
• Safety Protocols
• Specialised Guides
• Energy bar and Water
Late morning we head to the Ponta de São Lourenço, the easternmost point of the island. Our relaxing walk will take us along a path overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, where red earth cliffs and lush foliage line the way. After we will head to Porto Da Cruz, where there will be plenty of opportunities to take a dip in the natural pools, and enjoy a well-deserved ‘poncha do pescador’, a typical island drink made with rum, honey and lemon!
Pico Grande
My all-time favourite hike on the island, Pico Grande is one of the most enticing and picturesque hiking spots on this magical island. Set amidst some of Madeira’s most spectacular mountain scenery, and with panoramic views in all directions, it is nothing short of breathtaking.
The route involves some steep climbs, and the terrain can be a little loose and awkward in places. The optional final section up the rock involves a scramble, however there is a rope to assist. We have around 5hrs (11km) of trekking ahead of us with approximately 800m of elevation gain.
São Vicente & Seixal
Today we will visit the volcanic centre near the caves of São Vicente, before heading to the small village of Seixal! Seixal promises some much-needed vitamin sea.
We will be making a stop at the Viewpoint Veu da Noiva “Bride’s Veil”, for coastal scenery and a stunning natural waterfall. Here, between Seixal and Porto Moniz, a huge 30 meters waterfall hurtles out of the side of the cliff and into the ocean. It’s an impressive sight and there are plenty of viewpoints for photos.
Porto Moniz: Natural Pools
Although the Atlantic is notoriously cold, we at least test it to see if we’ll brave the chilly temperature - A truly beautiful and relaxing place.
Wine Tasting: We of course will end the day on a high note. After much relaxing we will close the day with some Madeira wine tasting. We will head to a lovely vineyard overlooking the valley of Sao Vincente.
Bica da Cana Sunrise & 25 Fontes Waterfall
Bica da Cana viewpoint is one of the amazing sunrise viewpoints in Madeira. Also known as Miradouro Bica da Cana, this place at a height of 1,560m above sea-level will blow your mind. With views on the highest peaks of Madeira Island and continues changing weather, Bica da Cana will always deliver different views. I went many times to Bica da Cana in the 6 months I lived on Madeira and were treated with a different view each time. Absolutely stunning.
25 Fontes Waterfall & Risco Waterfall
On this hike, you’re going to be surrounded by a lush, green mountain range in the center of Madeira where you’ll find blueberry and dandelion bushes bigger than humans.
The Levada das 25 Fontes is arguably the most popular hike on the island of Madeira, the iconic levada trail that leads hikers to the 25 fountains.
Firstly, let’s explain what Levadas are exactly. The term is known all around the island and very specific to Madeira. Levadas are basically a man-made irrigation system that spreads all over the island of Madeira.
The total distance of the Levada das 25 Fontes hiking trail was 11-kilometers out and back in total. There’s 300m of incline to handle, it will take around 4hrs depending on how long we want to relax and enjoy nature around us.
Time flies when you’re having fun: see you soon for another Hendy Travels adventure!
*The itinerary may undergo some variations that differ from what is stated above. These variations may not be foreseen nor dependent on Hendy's Travels control, i.e. climate conditions, strikes, etc.