Madeira Fly & Drive: 7 Days of Mountains, Sea & Island Magic

Suggestion For The Day:

• Discover Eastern Madeira with its charming villages, dramatic landscapes, and rich history. Explore traditional thatched houses, volcanic peaks, and a peninsula with lunar-like beauty.

Don’t Miss:

• Santana: Famous for its triangular thatched-roof houses (“palheiros”), a symbol of Madeira’s traditional architecture. Stroll the village and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
• Machico: Madeira’s first capital, with a historic center, the Captain's House Museum, and golden sands at Machico Bay.
• Pico do Arieiro: Ascend to Madeira’s third-highest peak for breathtaking panoramic views, including Curral das Freiras Valley.
• Ponta de São Lourenço: Explore this eastern peninsula with its unique volcanic landscapes, hiking trails, and dramatic ocean views.

Suggestion For The Day: 

Madeira, the “hiker’s paradise,” offers trails for all levels. Wander along scenic levadas or mountain paths - the south features easier walks, while the north has challenging treks with waterfalls and dramatic landscapes.

Recommended Hikes:

• Levada do Balcões: Moderate trail through UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest.
  Distance: 7 km (4.3 mi) | Duration: 4–5 hours

• Levada das 25 Fontes: Moderate walk to waterfalls and lush greenery.
  Distance: 6 km (3.7 mi) | Duration: 3–4 hours

• Vereda do Fanal: Magical trail through an ancient Laurissilva forest.
  Distance: 6 km (3.7 mi) | Duration: 3–4 hours

• Ponta de São Lourenço (PR8): Coastal hike with stunning ocean views.
  Distance: 6.3 km (4 mi) | Duration: 3–4 hours

Suggestion For The Day:

• Set out on a Whale & Dolphin Watching Excursion and discover Madeira from a whole new perspective! The island sits above deep ocean trenches, creating a marine haven home to over 28 species.
• Spot magnificent giants like Sperm Whales, Humpbacks, and Fins, or watch playful Bottlenose and Spotted Dolphins. Keep an eye out for the rare Monk Seal, Manta Rays, Sea Turtles, and a variety of unique seabirds. A truly unforgettable experience for nature and wildlife lovers!

Suggestion For The Day: 

• Madeira Botanical Garden: Begin your day at the Madeira Botanical Garden, perched on the hills above Funchal. Enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean while exploring the island’s botanical diversity and conservation efforts.
• Monte Palace Tropical Garden: Next, visit the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, famous for its fusion of Oriental design. Admire decorative tile panels depicting Chinese mythology and Portuguese maritime history, offering a glimpse into Madeira’s rich cultural connections.
• Carrinhos do Monte (Monte Toboggan): End your day with a thrilling ride on the iconic wicker toboggans! Dating back to the 19th century, skilled “carreiros” dressed in white guide the sleds down Monte Village streets to Funchal. This unique blend of adrenaline, culture, and heritage is perfect for families and adventure lovers alike - an unforgettable Madeiran experience!