Madeira Walking Holiday
Madeira is a unique destination for any outdoor enthusiast, and our Madeira walking holiday is designed to showcase the very best of this volcanic island. Located in the Atlantic Ocean, this Portuguese archipelago offers a temperate climate that is perfect for hiking throughout much of the year. On this seven-night escorted tour, you will be based in the coastal town of Machico, providing a quiet and authentic base from which to explore the island’s diverse landscapes.
One of the most distinctive features of Madeira is its network of levadas—narrow irrigation channels that wind their way across the mountainsides. These paths offer a unique way to traverse the island, leading you through lush vegetation and past dramatic waterfalls. Our itinerary includes walks along these historic channels, such as the route from Ponta do Pargo to Achadas da Cruz, where you can see the local crops and understand how these ingenious systems have shaped life on the island for centuries. The moderate routes are carefully chosen to balance physical activity with scenic discovery.
The variety of terrain on this Madeira walking holiday is truly impressive. You will experience everything from the rugged, wind-swept cliffs of Ponta de São Lourenço at the island’s eastern tip to the prehistoric Laurissilva forests of the Vereda do Fanal. A major highlight for many travellers is the hike to the summit of Pico Ruivo. At 1,862 metres, it is the highest point on the island, offering panoramic views that are simply breathtaking on a clear day.
While the focus is on the great outdoors, we also ensure there is time to experience the local culture and relax. A day at leisure provides the opportunity to visit Funchal, the island’s elegant capital. You might choose to wander through the colourful Botanic Gardens, take a cable car for elevated views of the harbour, or even experience the traditional wicker sledge ride from Monte. In the evenings, you will join your fellow group members for dinner at the hotel, sharing stories of the day’s adventures and enjoying the local hospitality.
This tour is classified as an ‘Active’ holiday, making it suitable for those with a good level of fitness. The moderate routes typically cover distances between 10km and 13km, with walking durations of up to five hours. With the support of an expert local guide and all logistics organised for you—including return flights, transfers, and half-board accommodation—this holiday offers excellent value for money. It is a straightforward, well-planned adventure that allows you to simply lace up your boots and enjoy the incredible natural scenery of Madeira.
What if there is an emergency during the tour?
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What's Included+
- Booking advice from your Travel Escapes travel advisor
- Return flights from Dublin to Madeira including taxes and transfers
- 7 nights accommodation in the 4-star Dom Pedro Madeira hotel in Machico
- Half board basis including 7 breakfasts and 7 evening meals
- 5 days of guided walking with an expert local guide
- 5 packed lunches included on walking days
- All transport to and from the starting points of the trails
- Welcome and farewell dinners with your group
Itinerary
1Arrive for your Madeira walking holiday+
Upon arrival at Madeira airport, you will meet your expert local guide and travel to your hotel in the seaside town of Machico on the island's east coast. This evening, join your fellow group members for a welcome dinner at the hotel, providing a great opportunity to get to know your travelling companions before the walking programme begins.
2The Ponta do Pargo Levada+
Today's moderate route begins in the parish of Ponta do Pargo and heads towards Achadas da Cruz in the quieter countryside. You will follow the levada as it flows through tilled fields in the southwest of the island. This is an excellent introduction to the origin of these irrigation channels and the major local crops. The walk covers approximately 13km over 4.5 hours with a gentle incline of 93m, all set against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean.
3Hiking to Pico Ruivo+
Today you will tackle a trail from Achadas Teixeira up to Pico Ruivo, the highest mountain on the island at 1,862 metres. Along the path, you will find various shelters to rest and enjoy the mountain air. As you ascend, the landscape reveals imposing peaks such as Pico das Torres and Pico do Areeiro. The trail offers some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in Portugal.
4The Cliffs of Ponta de São Lourenço+
Explore the easternmost point of the island at Ponta de São Lourenço. This coastal track showcases fabulous seascapes and unique volcanic rock formations. Your local guide will point out the rare flora and fauna found on this trail as the ocean crashes against the cliffs below. After the 10km walk (approx. 4 hours), there may be an opportunity for a refreshing swim in the turquoise waters of the Atlantic.
5Rabaçal and the 25 Fountains+
This is one of the most famous hikes on the island. You will follow stretches of three different levadas surrounded by lush forests and impressive waterfalls, including the large Risco waterfall. The trail leads to the 25 Fountains lagoon, where plants and vines drape over a 'weeping wall' of water. This moderate 11km walk takes around 4 hours and involves an incline of 350m.
6Funchal at Leisure+
Take a break from hiking to enjoy a day at your own pace. You can relax on the beach in Machico or take the provided shuttle bus to Funchal, Madeira's capital. In Funchal, you might choose to visit the Botanic Gardens, ride the cable cars, or see the famous wicker sledge toboggans. Your guide will be on hand to offer suggestions for sightseeing or local dining.
7The Laurissilva Forest at Vereda do Fanal+
Discover the lesser-known trails of the Vereda do Fanal. Starting on the Paul da Serra plateau, the route offers views of the Rabaçal valley before entering the lush Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The walk concludes at Fanal Forest, known for its ancient trees and local cows. This 10km hike takes approximately 5 hours. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with the group to celebrate your shared adventures.
8Departure from Madeira+
It is time to say goodbye to Portugal. You will be transferred to Madeira airport with your local guide for your return flight home, taking with you fond memories of your walking adventure.
| Date | Acc. | Price | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07 Sep 2026 | Twin | €1,859 Promo: €1,699 | Enquire Now |
| 02 Nov 2026 | Twin | €1,719 Promo: €1,349 | Sold Out |
| 15 Apr 2027 | Twin | €2,019 | Enquire Now |
| 13 May 2027 | Twin | €1,949 | Enquire Now |
| 09 Aug 2027 | Twin | €2,339 | Enquire Now |
- Booking deposit: enquire at time of booking
- Prices are per person based on two sharing.
- Single Supplement applies.
- A non-refundable / non-transferable deposit is required at the time of booking.
- Balance due 16 weeks before departure.
- Optional insurance available (terms & conditions apply).
- Taxes, prices & itinerary subject to change.
- Booking terms & conditions apply.
- Travel Insurance is not included.
Ref: TDA
