Madeira is an island in the Atlantic Ocean, reached from the mainland of Portugal, the amazing place with pleasant weather throughout the year, characterized by the subtropical climate, it is an amazingly beautiful island with volcanic beaches, amazing towns and villages, viewpoints for breathtaking views, beaches, hiking trails Towards the mountains, amazing vegetation, cliffs on the north coast and more.
You can get around the island by public transport, but as you will see, getting around will be easier with a rented car.
Funchal Funchal
On the first day in Madeira, it is recommended to start of course with the destination where you will land, the capital island of Madeira Funchal. Since you do not need a car in the city, you can rent a car only after you have exhausted this wonderful city. There is a car collection point at the airport or in the city itself.
So where should you visit the capital city?
The old town of Funchal
Wander the alleys, see historic buildings, boutique shops and sample the best restaurants in town.
The main street in the old town is called Rua de Santa Maria, it is also the oldest and most central in Funchal. This is where all the shops, bars and restaurants are concentrated, if you are looking for nightlife, this is the place to be, here you can rub shoulders with the friendly local population and meet other tourists and travelers from all over the world. The uniqueness of the old city is the fact that the walls of the white houses are covered with colorful and special paintings, the city cultivates street art in a special project called Painted Doors, it's just like visiting an art gallery under the sky, so those who love art, especially street art, are going to enjoy the cobbled streets everywhere This is good.
And if you are touring the old city and just before you continue to nature, do not miss when visiting the 15th century Corpo Santo chapel, the Sao Tiago Fort which you will recognize by its yellow color and the Madeira Story Center Museum, a fascinating museum that will teach you about the history of this amazing island.
If you are looking for more things to do in Funchal, consider visiting the Madeira Botanical Garden, the Funchal Cathedral, the Cristiano Ronaldo Museum, the legendary footballer who was born in the most famous place he left, you can choose from a variety of city tours, we always recommend taking a culinary tour that combines food and wine, to get to know the local culture and food well and hidden gems that you wouldn't normally come across.
Monte Palace Madeira
A cable car goes up to Monte Palace from the old city, where you will see a cable car station located right on the water's edge, take it and go up to the gardens.
The tropical gardens of Monte Palace
The tropical gardens of Monte Palace are located high above the city of Funchal and thus also give an excellent perspective from above, the garden is spectacular in its beauty and contains exotic plants, the entire garden is lined with sculptures, the entire garden is about 70 dunams of paths, plants, flowers and amazing views from the hills on the city But the garden does not only contain flora, but also animals, from colorful peacocks that roam freely to swans and fish.
Funchal Farmers Market
A visit to the city would not be complete without visiting Funchal's bustling Farmers' Market called (Mercado dos Lavradores). The market is lively and attracts locals and tourists alike and you can find quality local produce, you can wander to your heart's content among the stalls to purchase fresh vegetables and fruits, tropical flowers, spices, fish, meat, cheeses, seafood, the colorful market is one of the most enjoyable places to walk around to absorb the the atmosphere of the city.
We recommend purchasing exotic fruits at the Mercado dos Lavradores market that the Israeli palate has not yet tasted, for example a fruit called Monstera Deliciosa - a green fruit that is a hybrid of flavors between pineapple and banana, and it is as delicious and special as it sounds, of course you can enjoy mango, passion fruit and many other delicious fruits with lots of juice and sweetness . Just be aware, you should consult the seller, as unripe fruits may give you stomach aches.
The market offers many foods from the local cuisine, you can find desserts and pastries, and of course the bars offer drinks, among others the traditional drink called Poncha, it is actually a strong alcoholic drink consisting of brandy and combined with sweetness from sugar cane and fruit juice. But be careful, don't drive after drinking this drink.
Hiking route Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo
Take the rental car and drive 45 minutes from the capital city of Funchal to the hiking trail to Pico do Arriero. It is highly recommended to reach the top at sunrise to enjoy the spectacular view from a height of Shemam 1900 m, it is the third highest peak on the island.
The goal is to reach the observation point Miradoro do Joncal, to which people flock especially to watch the sunrise, on the mountain you will be surrounded by thick clouds that cover the sky like a blanket before the sun is revealed and shines above them and caresses them. The sky is filled with pink, red and purple colors, for one of the most mesmerizing sights you will see in your lifetime. Note that due to the altitude and the time, it is recommended to take a sweater or a light jacket with you.
After you have passed the observation point and enjoyed it, you can start the famous hiking route Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo. Here you will climb up to a height of 1,862 meters (6,109 feet), Pico Ruivo is the highest peak in Madeira.
The route is not easy and is 12 km (7.5 miles) long, but if you are experienced hikers, know that it is totally worth the effort and is most rewarding in the views along the route, from which valleys sprout, rolling green hills, the Atlantic Ocean will accompany you along the way and mountain peaks in the background, the views along the path simply unimaginable.
The goal is to reach the mountain hut at Pico Ruivo, the walking route passes between valleys and through dark tunnels, you must bring flashlights with you for parts of the tunnels, once you reach Pico Ruivo, you will discover a 360 panoramic view of the entire island, you will have to hold your breath to digest all the beauty that will be revealed In front of you, especially after the steep and intense route, after you relax and rest, you will have to return the same way, since this route is not circular, strangely enough, the views on the way back take a different turn and will seem different to you due to the viewpoints on the opposite side, it is difficult to decide which of the roads is more beautiful, but Luckily you don't have to choose between them. Is this route suitable for everyone? Absolutely not, but if you are traveling with fellow travelers who will help you, it is definitely worth the effort. Take with you water and snacks for the trip, hats, preparation cream and also a light sweater in your bag.
But there is another option for those who are not interested in a long and steep walking route of 12 km and for those who are interested in a shorter and much easier route, they can choose a short path in one direction only. This path is available on a guided tour, it will take you from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo, only 6 km and then descend from Pico Ruivo to Achada do Teixeira, 3 km, the guided tour includes a shuttle that will pick you up and drive you back to the hotel.
The northwest coast of Madeira
It is impossible to travel in Madeira, without tasting the northwest coast of the island. The road leading there is the most beautiful stretch of coastline and along it you will see some of the most amazing views the island has to offer.
São Vicente São Vicente
The first stop on the way on the scenic road is Sao Vinsta, which lies between green mountains, the small town is hidden right between the mountains, until you can miss it, it is definitely worth a trip to this picturesque village, it has a small historic center with narrow streets along which you will see flowers, several cafes and restaurants, Craft shops of the residents, a small souvenir shop, the town overlooks the ocean, the perfect place to relax with a drink and watch the sunset.
Seixal
The second stop on the scenic road, stop at Miradouro do Véu da Noiva, an amazing panoramic view of the waterfall that falls from a great height and is surrounded by cliffs.
The next town lies a little east of São Vicente, this is the small coastal town of Seixal, this stop is a must, as it offers a view that, according to the local residents, is also one of the most beautiful on the entire island, thanks to the green mountains surrounded by the turquoise ocean, the natural pools were created thanks to Volcanic eruptions, you can swim in the clear pool water surrounded by rocks formed from lava, Sixal, is without a doubt one of the most beautiful places you can see during your stay in Madeira.
Another attraction in the magical town of Seixal is one of the few naturally sandy beaches on the island, since most of the beaches are volcanic with a rocky and black exterior, here you will find a sandy beach of black sand, combined with the green mountains in the background, and you got a picture for Instagram.
The next stop on the scenic road after Seixal, continue on the road towards the northwest along the coast, where you will discover one of the most beautiful viewpoints on the island, an observation Miradouro da Eira da Achada and Miradouro Ilheus da Ribeira da Janela, from which there is a breathtaking view.
Porto Muniz
The next stop will be Puerto Muniz, another town on the ocean coast where you will also find natural pools, one of which is toddler friendly.
Achadas da Cruz cable car
The Achadas da Cruz cable car is a particularly exciting attraction, it is the steepest cable car in Europe. The cable leads you for about 5 minutes down an almost vertical cliff to an amazing beach.
The beach belongs to a village with cliffs that rise to a great height, in the village you will find several hiking trails and you can relax on the secluded beach.
Levada Levada and Panal forest hikes
The western part of the island receives a lot of rain, so it is also green and spectacular in its beauty, in this part of the trip you will find waterfalls and hiking trails.
Walk of Levada das 25 Fontes and Risco Waterfall
Levada das 25 Fontes, which translates to 25 springs or fountains, is an easy hiking trail that includes a scenic forest path to several waterfalls. The path leads to an amazingly beautiful blue lagoon surrounded by volcanic rocks from which streams flow. The water is of course frozen and not intended for bathing, but many come to cool off in it on a hot summer day
Since these itineraries are among the most popular on the island, it is highly recommended to arrive early. The trail leads to Risco Falls which falls from a height of one hundred meters, to return, take the same trail back and turn left in the middle of the trail. The route is 11 km long and should take over four hours, round trip.
To really enjoy Pontes Falls and Risco Falls in their full flow, it is recommended to avoid the dry months and arrive in winter from November to April, when the falls are much more impressive.
Panel forest
The next stop is Fanal Forest (Auto Fanal). This forest looks like an enchanted forest from fairy tales, with centuries-old laurel trees, Madeira's Laurisilva Forest has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site
If you are wondering what is so special about Panal forest, it is very difficult to convey in words the beauty and uniqueness of this forest, the forest is full of trees covered with moss that give it a dark and mysterious look. In the forest you will find grazing cows and walking paths among the ancient trees. It's a little cool in the forest, so it's great for hot days as a place of refuge, it's even recommended to bring warm clothing if you're traveling in the fall.
Then continue to explore the landscapes on the east coast of Madeira.
Punta de Sao Lorenzo
Ponte de Sao Lorenzo is on the eastern side of the island, the place has earned the amusing nickname "Madeira's tail", due to its elongated shape at the eastern end, this area is characterized by volcanic cliffs rising above the ocean, dramatic, slightly desert landscapes that look like on Mars with matted vegetation, This place looks completely different from the landscapes that characterize the island of Madeira. This walking route goes up to the cliffs and leads to observation points, the route is defined as easy and is about 8 km and takes about three and a half hours round trip. When you reach the end of the route you will find a cabin with a cafe and you will be rewarded for the walk with a good coffee or a cold beer and a slice of cake. Instead of going back, You can extend the road and choose the route leading to Miradouro Ponta do Furado, another observation point of the island of Ilhéu da Cevada.
This walking route is less suitable for the hot summer days in July and August, we recommend doing it in spring or autumn or if you already decide to do it in the Ritz, it is recommended to arrive early in the morning and stock up on cold water, hats and sunscreen.
Prainha Beach Prainha do Caniçal
From Punta de Sao Lorenzo continue to Prainha beach, a sandy beach is a rare sight in Madeira and this is one of them, the black colored Volranian sand is one of the most beautiful and popular beaches among tourists, if you want it for yourself come at sunrise, but you can enjoy the turquoise water at any time of the day.
Levada do Caldeirao Verde
The last part of the route to Madeira is recommended to be dedicated to the northeastern part of Madeira
The most famous walking route in this area is called Levada do Caldeirão Verde, a 12 km route that takes about four hours and will lead you through the lush Laurisilva forest, to waterfalls and past mountains and valleys.
At the end of the route, you will reach Caldeirão Verde, towards a large and impressive waterfall surrounded by mountains and cliffs. Please note that the walking route goes through tunnels, so it is necessary to carry a flashlight with you.
Caldeirão Verde levada is an amazingly beautiful route and one of the recommended on the island of Madeira.
Santana
For the last stop for the day, go to the picturesque town of Santana, it is a one of a kind town and differs in the landscape thanks to colorful houses whose roofs are made of straw. The town has a lovely garden and a souvenir shop, it has remained authentic and traditional and not industrialized and is carefully kept that way, as this is the secret of the charm of the place and the town attracts many visitors.
Not far from the village, you will find a panoramic viewpoint Miradoro do Goinda. With a direct view of the ocean on the northeastern side of Madeira surrounded by huge and impressive cliffs, a truly mesmerizing sight. After the observation you can take a dip in the waters of the Faial beach.
Questions and Answers
Dolphin and whale watching tour Madeira is a country rich in flora and fauna, especially whales, dolphins, turtles and other species. There is another tour where you can swim with dolphins.
A speedboat tour is an adrenaline filled experience and you will have to stay in your seat throughout the trip due to the high speed.
You can do a star trip from the capital city of Funchal and do day trips. If you want to move from place to place, it is recommended to arrange additional places to stay, in Sao Vicente, Santana or Machico.
A week minimum, but if you have more than a week in Madeira, you can also visit the island of Porto Santo, part of the Madeira archipelago. Porto Santo is reached by ferry, this island is completely different from Madeira, this is the place for a belly-back vacation with a 9 km long beach with golden sand and turquoise water.
It is highly recommended to rent, because the scenic roads contain spectacular views that can only be seen when you go out on the road, during which you will also meet picturesque towns, villages, walking paths to waterfalls, streams, valleys, forests and of course mountains and beaches with black sand. Although some places are accessible by bus, with a car you will be able to reach more hiking and nature trails that you should not miss
