Overview
On this self guided walking holiday in Madeira you are free to explore at your leisure as car hire is provided and you drive to and from the start of the walks each day. Walking many of the levadas for which Madeira is so famous for you explore the best the island has to offer. With fantastic vistas of the island from Paul do Mar in the west to the hills on the Eastern side of the island around Machico which was originally the capital of Madeira. Discover the lakes of Madeira and the impressive Lagoa do Venta waterfall and walk to one of the highest peaks on island the Pico Grande. Take time to discover the capital Funchal, known for its historical centre and bustling market place.
Itinerary
Arrival in Madeira and pick up your hire car before driving to your hotel (approx 45 mins). Below is a suggested itinerary for the week, however, as you have your own hire car and you are staying at the same hotel all week, this holiday offers complete flexibility and you are free to pick and choose when and where you walk each day. You stay at Bio Hotel Quinta da Serra (dinner included) (D).
Start your walking from a height of 1200m to the Pico Grande; one of the highest peaks of the Island with stunning views over Nun's Valley, Ribeira Brava and Pico Ruivo. The climb to the top of Pico Grande is challenging but very worthwhile especially on sunny and clear days. Walking poles are recommended for this walk. You stay at Bio Hotel Quinta da Serra (Breakfast included) (B).
Walk alongside the Levada do Alecrim enjoying fantastic views over the Rabacal valley. You walk past 3 waterfalls, the most impressive being the second one; Lagoa do Vento. After passing the waterfalls you make your way back, there is a shelter house in Rabacal where you can enjoy a drink and a snack before taking the shuttle bus (3€ payable locally) to return to the car park. You stay at Bio Hotel Quinta da Serra (Breakfast included) (B).
This circular walk takes you to one of the most beautiful villages of the island, Paul do Mar. An impressive walk, if a little steep in the first part until sea level. Stop in the centre of the village for a break before passing through the countryside to Faja da Ovelha where you'll follow the levada back to Prazeres. You stay at Bio Hotel Quinta da Serra (Breakfast included) (B).
Spend a day exploring at leisure in the capital, Funchal. Explore the historic centre with its Gothic cathedral built in the 16th century, the collegiate church with impressive gilt work and soak in the atmosphere. Try the local flavours in the bustling farmers market with exotic fruits and the traditional honey cake and don't forget to visit Funchals most colourful street, the Rua de Santa Maria where the doors have been brightly painted with murals. There's a myriad of places to enjoy a perfect lunch down by the harbour. You stay at Bio Hotel Quinta da Serra (Breakfast included) (B).
This walk takes you into the hills of Machico which was the first capital of the island. After the walk through the mountains you will be rewarded with superb views over the North coast and the enchanting Risco view point. Climb in the direction of Pico Castanho, heading towards the fishing village of Canical with super views over Ponta de Sao Lourenco. Take the levada back to your car. You stay at Bio Hotel Quinta da Serra (Breakfast included) (B).
Starting at the church in the village of Loabada there are excellent views today with panoramic views of the valley and the beautiful village of Ponta do Sol.
Following the levada do Moinho you will climb the path that leads to Levada Nova where you'll reach its impressive waterfall before arriving back in Lombada. You stay at Bio Hotel Quinta da Serra (Breakfast included) (B).
Leave hotel and return your hire car back to the airport (B).
Trip Inclusions
- Wonderful walking along the levadas of Madeira and seeing the most beautiful waterfalls on the island
- Known as the floating garden of the Atlantic, Madeira offers a wealth of flora and fauna and unforgettable beauty
- Excellent 5 star hotel with an exclusive and refined feel, relaxing spa and wellness centre, just 30 minutes from Funchal
- 7 nights single centre accommodation in a 5-star hotel
- Management by your local Headwater appointed agent
- Headwater navigation app
- All breakfasts
- Group B Car Hire
- GPS Route directions and maps
- Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
Hit the trails with Exodus - from challenging peaks to leisurely coastal and countryside walks. Read more
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Wherever possible, Exodus chooses properties that are locally owned and that reflect the area you are visiting. Read more
Prices & Dates
There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and will no longer continue. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view the general release dates for all destinations.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Exodus. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Exodus. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
