Walking on Madeira: an introduction

Madeira: a stunning destination for walkers

Madeira lies in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Africa about 450km (280 miles) north of the Canary Islands. It is renowned for its stunning landscapes and lush vegetation, with flowers in bloom throughout the year.

For hikers and nature enthusiasts, walking on Madeira offers a unique and unforgettable experience. With its network of well-maintained levada walks, this island is a walker’s paradise.

Our guidebook to walking on Madeira is your ideal companion. It has been a bestseller for over 40 years.

Funchal: your base for exploration

Funchal, the capital city of Madeira, serves as an excellent base for exploring the island. This vibrant city offers a blend of historical charm, cultural attractions, and modern amenities.

From the bustling old town to the picturesque marina, Funchal has something to offer everyone. There are a variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly to luxurious hotels. You’ll be in the right spot for the good bus system that will take you all over the island.

Must-see attractions in Funchal and nearby

• Sé Cathedral: Admire the intricate architecture of this 15th-century cathedral, a landmark in Funchal.
• Mercado dos Lavradores: Experience the local culture at this lively farmers’ market. You can find fresh produce, handicrafts, and traditional Madeiran delicacies.
• Monte Palace Tropical Garden, just north of Funchal: This botanical garden is a must-visit for nature lovers. Explore its terraced gardens filled with exotic plants, colourful flowers, and stunning views of the city.
• Cabo Girão, just west of Funchal: Take in breathtaking panoramic views of the southern coast from this cliff, one of the highest sea cliffs in the world; dare you step on its glass walkway, 580m (almost 1,200ft) above the sea?

Embarking on levada walks

Levada walks are a unique feature of Madeira, offering trails that follow the irrigation channels used to transport water throughout the island. These walks provide opportunities to explore the island’s natural beauty, from lush rainforests to cascading waterfalls.

Top levada walks:

• Levada do Caldeirão Verde: This challenging but rewarding walk takes you through a lush laurel forest to the stunning Caldeirão Verde waterfall, surrounded by dramatic cliffs.
• Levada dos Balcões: A flat and easy, short walk that offers breathtaking views of the crate-like valley leading to the power station at Fajã da Nogueira.
• Levada do Furado: This adventurous walk involves rounding a precipitous — but well protected — rock face in deep shadow, before descending sun-blessed hillsides.
• Levada das 25 Fontes: This challenging walk takes you through a lush laurel forest to a cavern where 25 waterfalls splash down into a pool. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Walking the mountain trails

While the levadas have captured the imagination of walkers, Madeira offers much more! There are mountain trails to suit all abilities.

Some of the most popular are:

• Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo: This hike between the two highest peaks on Madeira is the star walk for many; it leads past incredibly tortured rock formations and is best started at sunrise.
• Achada do Teixeira to Pico Ruivo: An easy walk on a surfaced path to the island’s highest mountain, where you can have refreshments at either end.
• The Camino Real (King’s highway) between Boca da Corrida and Encumeada: This coastal walk offers stunning views over Curral das Freiras, a huge valley where nuns are said to have escaped from pirates by hiding in the sugar cane.

The best times for walkers to visit

You can walk on Madeira all year round, but perhaps avoid June with its capaçete (a cap of clouds). Christmas and New Year’s Eve are high season, as is Easter, when prices rise significantly.

In summer it is usually not too hot for walking, and that has become a popular time to visit (but with climate change, it is hard to predict temperatures from one year to the next).

What makes Madeira so special?

Madeira offers a unique combination of factors that make it a magnet for walkers:

• Diverse landscapes: From lush rainforests to rugged coastlines, Madeira boasts a variety of landscapes to explore.
• Well-maintained levadas: The island’s network of levada walks is well-maintained, making it easy to navigate and enjoy the scenery.
• Stunning views: Madeira offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, mountains, and valleys.
• Mild climate: The island’s subtropical climate provides pleasant temperatures year-round, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
• Unique flora and fauna: Discover Madeira’s endemic plants and animals, including the iconic Madeira laurel forest.

Tips for hiking on Madeira

• Wear appropriate clothing and footwear: Our book has suggestions for what to pack.
• Bring plenty of water and snacks: Hiking can be thirsty work, so it’s essential to stay hydrated.
• Respect the environment: Leave no trace and avoid disturbing wildlife.
• Check the weather forecast: Madeira’s weather can change quickly on the heights, so it’s important to be aware of the forecast before heading out.
• Don’t take risks!: It is important to carry a mobile or smartphone, to be aware of emergency telephone numbers and to tell a responsible person where you are going and what time you plan to return. Always remember, your speed will be determined by the slowest walker in your group.

Whether you’re a casual walker or a seasoned hiker or a, walking on Madeira offers an unforgettable experience. With its stunning landscapes, diverse trails, and friendly locals, this island is a true walker’s paradise. Buy our guidebook to walking on Madeira.