Daily Distance

8 - 16 km

Daily Elevation Gain

200 - 500 m

Duration

8 Days & 7 Nights

From

2.460 EUR

Madeira Hiking Premium

Discover Madeira: A Premium Hiking Experience in Paradise

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime hike journey through the enchanting island of Madeira, where luxury meets adventure at every turn. Nestled in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean, Madeira offers an exceptional blend of dramatic landscapes, from majestic mountain peaks to pristine coastlines, all waiting to be explored in style. Transverse the world-renowned Levadas, wandering through the island’s lush UNESCO-listed Laurissilva Forest, an ethereal sanctuary of ancient trees. Discover the breathtaking cliffs of Ponta de São Lourenço, where the rugged coastline meets the deep blue of the Atlantic, and journey to the island's highest summits - Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo - each offering sweeping panoramas that will leave you speechless. Relax in one exceptional accommodation, carefully selected for its inclusion in the prestigious Small Luxury Hotels of the World™ (SLH), where unparalleled service and unique charm promise an unforgettable stay. Delight in Madeira’s exceptional gastronomy, where each meal celebrates the island’s finest flavors, from fresh seafood to traditional specialties. Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture, exploring charming villages and the rich history of Funchal. This premium experience invites you to discover Madeira’s magic in the most sophisticated way, blending adventure and luxury with every step. Let the island's natural wonders captivate you, and indulge in a journey that promises to be as unforgettable as it is extraordinary.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
  • Mountain scenery in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean
  • Madeira’s highest peaks
  • Quiet trails and stunning sceneries over the ocean
  • Levadas and volcanic rock formations
  • Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site
  • Madeira gastronomy, fresh fish, and products

Tour Information

SELF-GUIDED 2025 PRICES

Low Season2.460 EUR
Single Room+ 1.230 EUR
04 Jan - 26 Feb
27 Oct - 15 Dec

Medium Season2.600 EUR
Single Room+ 1.300 EUR
27 Feb - 13 Apr
21 Apr - 26 Apr
27 May - 26 Jun

High Season2.750 EUR
Single Room+ 1.450 EUR
14 Apr - 20 Apr
27 Jun - 26 Oct

Special Season2.980 EUR
Single Room+ 1.650 EUR
27 Apr - 26 May

Price Notes
• prices per person for a minimum of 2 people in double/twin room
• solo traveler supplement on request

  • Distance

    8 - 16 km / day

  • Profile

    Mostly flat on Levadas, hilly but soft climbs

  • Route

    Hiking trails and Levadas (water irrigation channels)

  • Duration

    8 Days | 7 Nights

  • Start

    Funchal

  • Finish

    Funchal

Guided and Tailor-Made Tours available on request:

Included and Optional Services

Preparation
  • Personalized assistance throughout the booking

  • Pre-departure Information Pack (checklist, general travel information)

  • Tour Information (description of daily stages & profiles)

  • Liability and personal accident insurance

Accommodations
  • 7 Nights in standard double / twin room
  • Breakfast daily

  • Private bathroom in all accommodations

  • If any accommodation isn’t available, we will propose an alternative solution

Transfers
  • Transfer on the day of arrival from Funchal Airport to the first hotel
  • Transfer from the last hotel to Funchal Airport
  • Transfers during the tour as mentioned in the daily description

Orientation
  • Welcome briefing in English
  • Digital Information Book delivered before the tour

  • Smartphone App
    & GPS Tracks

  • Local Support Number (free to call us 24h/day)

Optional
  • Extra Days & Nights (add them along the way): on request

  • Different arrival & departure transfers: on request

Itinerary

Arrival in Funchal

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 Funchal. Stroll through the charming streets, visit the bustling markets, and admire the stunning views of the Atlantic. Be sure to try local delicacies like espetada and bolo do caco. Your adventure begins here - let the magic of Funchal captivate you!
Funchal - Quinta da Casa Branca | Scenic Hiking in Madeira | Portugal Nature Trails

Transfer from Funchal

0:20 h

Quinta da Casa Branca

Hike Ponta de São Lourenço

Explore Madeira’s Easternmost tip: Ponta de São Lourenço

Start your day with a delicious breakfast before a short transfer takes you to the stunning Ponta de São Lourenço, Madeira’s easternmost peninsula. Renowned for its dramatic cliffside beauty, this volcanic landscape of basalt formations offers a surreal hiking experience surrounded by the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. The trail follows São Lourenço Point, a historic location tied to the Age of Discoveries, and leads to the peninsula’s tip. Here, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the ocean and nearby islets. The Desembarcadouro Islet, a natural reserve, and the peninsula’s protected areas - part of the Natura 2000 network - are havens for fascinating birdlife such as Berthelot’s Pipit, Common Canary, Cory’s Shearwater, and Bulwer’s Petrel. Along the way, take in the striking contrast between the calm, serene waters of the southern coast and the wild, powerful waves of the north. With a bit of luck, you might even spot the rarest seal in the world, lovingly referred to as sea wolf by locals. End this unforgettable adventure with a short transfer back to your accommodation, where you can unwind and savor the anticipation of more amazing experiences to come.
Funchal - Quinta da Casa Branca | Hiking Holidays in Madeira | Portugal Nature Trails

Transfer

0:35 h

Distance

8 km

Elevation Gain

+ 300 m

Transfer

0:35 h

Quinta da Casa Branca

Hike Vereda do Fanal

Today's trail is in the area of the Laurissilva Forest.

Classified by UNESCO as a Natural World Heritage site since 1999 and 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.
Funchal - Quinta da Casa Branca | Guided Tours Hiking in Madeira | Portugal Nature Trails

Transfer

0:30 h

Distance

11 km

Elevation Gain

+ 200 m

Transfer

0:30 h

Quinta da Casa Branca

Hike Vereda do Areeiro

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.
Funchal - Quinta da Casa Branca | Walking Tours in Madeira | Portugal Nature Trails

Transfer

0:30 h

Distance

11 km

Elevation Gain

+ 500 m

Transfer

0:30 h

Quinta da Casa Branca

Hike Caminho do Pináculo e Folhadal

Explore the ancient paths of Levada do Norte

Today's hike invites you to immerse yourself in Madeira's captivating landscapes, offering magnificent views as you explore the island's pristine Laurissilva Forest. Your journey begins with a comfortable transfer to Lombo do Mouro, where you’ll embark on the historic Pináculo e Folhadal trail. Along the way, you'll follow the iconic Levada da Serra and Levada do Norte, uncovering breathtaking vistas of lush forests and dramatic valleys. At the top of the trail, near Pináculo, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view over the Ribeira Brava valley, framed by the towering Pico Ruivo and Pico do Areeiro peaks in the distance - an ideal moment for capturing the island’s beauty. As you walk, you’ll also encounter architectural gems such as the "municipal path," an ancient stone-paved route that once connected Madeira's northern and southern coasts. Your hike continues through enchanting tunnels and past cascading waterfalls, each adding a magical touch to your journey. The day ends in the tranquil Folhadal area, where you can pause to reflect and soak in the stunning surroundings before being transferred back to your accommodation.
Funchal - Quinta da Casa Branca | Walking Holidays in Madeira | Portugal Nature Trails

Transfer

0:30 h

Distance

15 km

Elevation Gain

+ 700 m

Transfer

0:30 h

Quinta da Casa Branca

Hike Vereda Boca do Risco

Conquering the Facho Peak

Today’s path combines the culture and traditions of Madeira Island with a mix of landscapes of sea and mountains. The day begins with a transfer to Machico, where you’ll get on a scenic trail along the Levada do Caniçal for approximately 2 kilometers. Along the way, admire the terraced fields where locals skillfully cultivate the island’s fertile soil - a testament to Madeira’s agricultural heritage. The trail gently ascends to Boca do Risco (322m), a breathtaking crest offering panoramic views of the dramatic northern cliffs and the picturesque Machico Valley. Historically, this spot was vital for islanders, where towering bonfires were lit to warn of approaching enemy ships. From Boca do Risco, the path continues along a cliffside route, hugging the 300-meter contour and delivering unforgettable coastal vistas, before leading you to the charming town of Porto da Cruz. Here, your transfer will be waiting to return you to your accommodation, capping off a day of exploration and unforgettable scenery.
Funchal - Quinta da Casa Branca | Hiking Trips in Madeira | Portugal Nature Trails

Transfer

0:30 h

Distance

16 km

Elevation Gain

+ 400 m

Transfer

0:30 h

Quinta da Casa Branca

Free day in Funchal

A day to explore the charms of Funchal

No trip to Madeira is complete without exploring its vibrant capital, Funchal. Today, with a free day to explore, you can choose how to experience this enchanting city. Wander through the cobblestone streets of the historic center, visit the lively Mercado dos Lavradores, or immerse yourself in the lush greenery of the Madeira Botanical Garden or Monte Palace Tropical Garden. For a unique adventure, consider trying the traditional wicker toboggan ride from Monte, gliding down the steep streets in a hand-woven basket sled. You might also explore the city’s rich history at landmarks like the Sé Cathedral or enjoy a leisurely walk along the oceanfront promenade. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in Funchal’s renowned gastronomy. From succulent espetada (meat skewers) to sweet banana cake and the iconic poncha drink, the city’s culinary offerings are sure to captivate your taste buds and leave you craving more!
Funchal - Quinta da Casa Branca | Hiking Holidays in Madeira | Portugal Nature Trails

Quinta da Casa Branca

Departure from Funchal

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 hike. Join us on this remarkable hiking tour and get ready to uncover the best of Portugal’s Nature Trails!
Madeira Hiking Premium | Coastal Walks in Madeira | Portugal Nature Trails

Transfer to Funchal

0:30 h

3 reviews for Madeira Hiking Premium

  1. DaveCalgary –

    We had a 10 day walking trip of Mainland Portugal booked but had to switch to Madeira 5 days before we planned to leave due to covid restrictions. Diana and team were amazing to find us a new adventure and get it booked for us is short order. We did 11 hikes (10-20K a day) over 10 days and stayed in 7 different towns over the 2 weeks we were there. The sites were amazing and we tried all the local food and wine etc. Everything went well and the team and the drivers were very nice and treated us well. Most of the hotels were upscale and all included breakfast. I highly recommend Portugal Nature Trails.

  2. Exploration322374 –

    Many thanks to Portugal Nature Trails for a wonderful visit to Madeira. The guide/driver and hotels were amazing, especially for the price of our trip. PNT set up wonderful day hikes for us and arranged for us to stay in 5-star and boutique hotels. The people of Madeira are friendly and we arrived in time to enjoy some of the Flower Festival festivities/events.

  3. Cristina P –

    I was in Madeira in june with a group of friends (14 persons) . All was good: hotels, transfers, guide and the trekkings. Thanks to you for your great organization.

Add a review

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

WhatsApp us