25 - 53 km
300 - 1.900 m
8 Days & 7 Nights
1.500 EUR
Stunning sceneries over the ocean
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PARTNERS, CREDENTIALS AND MORE
Madeira Island by Bike
Eight days cycling the full arc of the Atlantic's most dramatic island.
Madeira is a volcanic island that rises steeply out of the Atlantic, and cycling it from east to west gives you a landscape that shifts constantly and without warning: cliff roads above the ocean, descents through laurel forest, the natural pools at Porto Moniz, the traditional painted houses of Santana, and finally Funchal laid out below you on the last riding day. The tour is offered with e-bike support as standard, which opens the climbing stages to a wider range of riders without removing any of the scenery or the sense of achievement that comes from reaching each viewpoint under your own power. An optional stage to Pico do Areeiro, one of the highest points in the archipelago, is there for those who want to push further on the rest day. Madeira sits within a broader set of island adventures in our programme. Explore all our cycling tours in Portugal to compare destinations and find the journey that suits you.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Tour Information
SELF-GUIDED 2026 PRICES
Low Season1.500 EUR
Single Room+ 490 EUR
04 Jan - 26 Feb
27 Oct - 15 Dec
Medium Season1.560 EUR
Single Room+ 520 EUR
27 Feb - 26 Mar
06 Apr - 20 Apr
High Season1.670 EUR
Single Room+ 580 EUR
27 Mar - 05 Apr
30 Apr - 26 Jul
01 Sep - 26 Oct
Special Season1.890 EUR
Single Room+ 760 EUR
21 Apr - 29 Apr
27 Jul - 31 Aug
Price Notes
• prices per person for a minimum of 2 people in double/twin room
• solo traveler supplement on request
Included and Optional Services
Bikes
E-Bike UNISEX
Includes: handlebar bag, rear bag, rear rack, pedals, spare tubes, helmet, water bottle, tools, and pump.
Portugal Nature Trails360 EUR
Itinerary
Arrival in Santa Cruz
Welcome to Madeira!
After the first greetings, our guide will drive you to the first hotel in Santa Cruz, one of the oldest settlements on the island. Depending on your arrival time, we suggest you take a taxi (at your own expense) and visit Ponta de São Lourenço. Located on the eastern tail of the island, it can resemble a lunar landscape. Here, you will find some of the finest cliff scenery on Madeira Island. We would say that its sunset is the perfect welcome to the island. Either way, you can use your free time to explore the surroundings and prepare for the days ahead.
Cycle from Camacha to Porto da Cruz / Santana
Let the adventure begin!
After a traditional breakfast, a short transfer will take you to Camacha, where today's stage begins. Here, you’ll pick up your bike and set out on a superb panoramic route. Cycle through some of the island's most scenic roads as you head toward Porto da Cruz, a charming village known for being home to one of the last rum distilleries on the island. Once there, you can get a car transfer to the hotel or continue cycling. If you continue, the last few kilometers, although challenging, will be rewarded by the impressive views. The day ends at Santana, a village famous for its triangular houses, as shown in all the postcards.
Cycle from Santana to Porto Moniz
Between the sea and the mountains
It's time to continue exploring this beautiful island. Today, you will leave Santana and ride towards Porto Moniz, the most idyllic spot on the northwest tip of Madeira Island, a breathtaking haven on Madeira's northwest tip, famed for its natural ocean pools. You’ll ride along the ocean on secondary roads, between charming villages and breathtaking viewpoints. Around nearly every corner, you’ll discover yet another unforgettable vista - a reminder of what makes Madeira Island so special. To cap off a perfect day, why not treat yourself to a dip in the famous natural pools or indulge in the island’s delightful local cuisine? Can you imagine such an experience?
Cycle from Bica da Cana to Porto Moniz
Exploring the interior heart of Madeira Island.
Get ready for a true immersion in Madeira’s natural beauty. Today’s stage begins at Bica da Cana, right in the island’s core, where panoramic views from the top are truly one-of-a-kind. You’ll be surrounded by the lush São Vicente valley, where the shades of green of the Laurissilva forest are predominant. The journey features a long/gentle descent towards Porto Moniz, revealing countless unforgettable sights over the sea along the way. As you cycle through the deep heart of Madeira Island, you’ll have the chance to explore some of the island's most remote and stunning viewpoints. Upon reaching Porto Moniz, take the opportunity to relax and fully enjoy this enchanting destination. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquility of this island paradise!
Cycle from Prazeres to Porto Moniz
Cycle along Madeira’s stunning west coast.
After starting on the eastern side and crossing the north face of the island, today, this stage will take you along the captivating west coast of Madeira. Although not very wide, you will notice that Madeira Island always has something that can surprise you. You’ll be cycling in what is considered the sunniest region of the island, providing the perfect opportunity to admire breathtaking landscapes that blend heavenly contours with Madeira’s rich traditions. So, on your way to Porto Moniz, you’ll ride between forested roads and quaint typical hamlets, while discovering viewpoints with fish names, beautiful beaches, and inviting bathing complexes, all set against a backdrop of stunning scenery. At the end of the day, take a refreshing dip in the natural pools or indulge in the delights of Madeira’s renowned gastronomy. Embrace the unique experiences this enchanting island has to offer!
Cycle from Ribeira Brava to Funchal
An unforgettable last day of cycling.
On this last day of cycling, you will ride towards Funchal, one of the oldest cities on the island. Worldwide known for its beauty, this city has a remarkable history. So, give wings to your legs and ride in one last stage. Along the way, you’ll visit Europe’s highest sea cliff (second highest in the world) - Cape Girão. Standing at 580m above sea level, this breathtaking spot is famous for its suspended glass platform, offering moments of pure contemplation and spectacular panoramic views that will leave you in awe. Then, as you approach your final destination, don’t miss the chance to explore Câmara de Lobos, a charming traditional fishing village that inspired Sir Winston Churchill to capture its picturesque surroundings in his artwork. Make this last day a memorable celebration of your adventure in Madeira!
Free day to Explore Funchal or Cycle Funchal Loop to Pico do Areeiro
Enjoy a full day in Funchal!
Waking up in Funchal is a delightful experience, and today is yours to fully enjoy the city. As Madeira’s most famous city, Funchal invites you to explore its vibrant, cosmopolitan center. Stroll through the lively streets and discover historical sites like the majestic cathedral, or seek out the best viewpoints for stunning ocean vistas. The opportunities for adventure are endless! Make sure to visit the Funchal Market, where you can indulge in the island’s finest cuisine. Alternatively, if you’re feeling adventurous, consider extending your cycling journey with an optional stage to Pico do Areeiro, one of the highest points in the Madeira Archipelago. This challenging ride promises to be one of your most unforgettable experiences, as you’ll often find yourself above a sea of clouds floating beneath the rugged peaks of Madeira's central mountains, creating the sensation of being on another planet! Whether you choose to explore the charm of Funchal or experience the magic of Pico do Areeiro, this is a day you won’t want to miss!
Departure from Funchal
That’s it! Our splendid trip 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 city, or even adding an extra day of cycling. Join us on this remarkable cycling tour and get ready to uncover the best of Portugal’s Nature Trails!
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Kerry L –
From the first contact with Antonio (who answered my call in the middle of his night), to the office staff making our arrangements (call out to Daniela, Diana, and Catarina), to our hired driver on Madeira (Francisco), to our support guides in the Duoro, Rogerio and Nuno, we had a thoroughly outstanding experience with PNT and do not hesitate to recommend them. We were four, fit folks from Boulder, Colorado in our 70’s and one who is in his 80’s. PNT customized our hiking and biking so we had two days in each location affording us an opportunity to take rest days if we desired. One of our group injured his knee early on and could not hike or ride, but our drivers and support guides ensured he was along for the adventure. Our trip was put together with only a month of planning which made it challenging for PNT to find the best hotels. Antonio’s hiking routes on Madeira were excellent fits and the biking routes were terrific – mostly on very quiet roads with breathtaking views and through rural villages. At each stop, he provided recommendations for restaurants for dinner if we did not want to eat at the hotel. The Ride with GPS app was excellent, keeping us on the path or the right road. This trip was billed as self-guided, but PNT provides substantial support along the way. Do it!
David B –
We are experienced cycle tourists and this was an amazing tour during which we saw almost no other cyclists. Madeira has incredible scenery, welcoming people, good food and lovely weather, especially on the south coast. If you love climbing and descending through multiple climate zones on individual rides, then this trip is a real treat. Be prepared for riding very narrow roads, but with very respectful drivers.