Madeira, also known as the “Pearl of the Atlantic,” is an island tailor-made for hiking and discovery. If you are looking for endless views above the clouds, dramatic coastal cliffs, and green laurel forests, Madeira is the island where your adventure begins. Based on our personal experience, we have put together a comprehensive 7-day itinerary that will take you from the highest peaks (Pico Ruivo) to the unique irrigation channels (Levadas). Madeira hiking – this guide includes all our personal tips and recommendations you need when planning your active holiday in Madeira.
Madeira Practical Tips
✈️ Flights to Madeira and Transport
A flight to Madeira is relatively fast. The Funchal Airport (FNC) is known for strong winds, so be prepared for an adrenaline-pumping landing. We recommend renting a car. We tried the electric BMW i3, which was surprisingly practical.
You won’t discover Madeira without a car. A small, yet powerful car is a necessity in these mountains! The whole of Madeira is crisscrossed with high-quality roads, tunnels, and highways, which significantly speeds up movement around the edge of the island. However, climbing up above the clouds and to the laurel forests is a completely different league.
“If you plan to explore the highest peaks, Pico Ruivo and Pico do Arieiro, parking lots and roads are extremely narrow. We recommend a smaller and powerful car (even with a manual transmission) that can handle steep ascents. Full Coverage insurance is almost a necessity.
☀️ Madeira Weather and Microclimate
Madeira weather is diverse. Funchal and the South are warmer, while the mountains are often shrouded in fog. The northeastern part of the island around Santana is noticeably cooler. You will find the warmest sea in Ponta do Sol. The Madeira Island is green all year round because of this microclimate. Check the current Madeira weather here ➡️ weather forecast
Always carry a jacket in your backpack, even when the sun is shining on the coast.
🛌 Madeira Accommodation and Funchal
Madeira accommodation is best chosen in Funchal Madeira or its surroundings, as it serves as a good base for day trips. If you are looking for warmth and digital nomad facilities, consider the Ponta do Sol area.
Many AirBnB accommodations, especially the cheaper ones high up on the slopes, are difficult to access without a car. Outside of the main season, don’t rush for a pool. Unless it is maintained and heated, a jacuzzi will help you more after a full-day trek.
Madeira Hiking
🌋 On the Roof of the Island: Pico Ruivo and Pico do Arieiro
If you are looking for the experience of hiking above the clouds, the highest peaks of Madeira are a must for you. Prepare for challenging climbs and endless scenery between the clouds. The traverse between these two peaks is incredibly beautiful.
- The most impressive hiking trail in Madeira ➡️ Pico do Arieiro
- Ascent to the roof of Madeira ➡️ Hiking trail Pico Ruivo
🌿Unique Levadas: Hiking Along Water Channels
Levadas are unique irrigation channels that the islanders dug centuries ago. They are the backbone of Madeira’s hiking and offer easy, yet breathtaking walks.
- Levadas: History and our guide ➡️ The nicest Madeira Levádas
- The most beautiful levadas around Ponta do Sol ➡️ Levada Nova, Moinho a de Coronel
🌊 Coastal Trails and Iconic Viewpoints
Madeira offers a wild coastline and breathtaking cliffs. From the eastern tip of the island to the mystical laurel forests in the western part, where time has stood still.
- Ponta de São Lourenço ➡️ Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço
- Fanal forest and its nooks ➡️ Mystical Fanal Forest
- Cabo Girão and coastal cliffs ➡️ Cabo Girão
- Salomon Golden Trail ➡️ Finale Salomon Golden Trail Madeira
Gastro and Madeira Wine
Madeira is home to the famous Madeira Wine, whose production is influenced by a unique maturation process at higher temperatures. You will also discover dry wines and rum here. Wine is the jewel of the island, but don’t forget to taste the local dishes. We loved the amazing Bolo do Caco (sweet potato bread) with garlic butter and the traditional beef skewer Espetada. Have you ever taste madeira cake?
An absolute must is tasting the local drink, which is Poncha. This strong, yet refreshing alcoholic drink is made from sugar cane spirit (aguardente de cana), fresh lemon juice, and honey. It was originally drunk by fishermen as a remedy for colds and a source of strength. Warning: Poncha is treacherously strong; we recommend caution!
- Holiday with a borrowed electric car ➡️ How to drive an electric MW i3 on Madeira
- Yes, we also love Madeira wine ➡️ Quinta do Barbusano
Madeira Hiking from Our Experience
Madeira is an island that offered us unexpected diversity, and a holiday full of hiking exceeded all expectations. If our detailed 7-day plan inspired you, don’t hesitate. Explore our entire journey step by step!
