Madeira

MADEIRA INSIDE OUT: HIKING COASTAL PATHS AND HIGH MOUNTAIN RIDGES

Hiking

What you'll do

Madeira isn’t just a hiking destination — it’s a world of micro-climates, ancient forests, cliff-top villages, volcanic ridges, and the kind of landscapes that feel almost unreal. In this 7-day adventure, you’ll experience the island like a local: walking ancestral Caminhos Reais, following levadas carved by levadeiros, crossing remote valleys, and tackling the legendary ridge between Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo. You begin on the gentle coastal trails of the east before entering the untamed north — a region shaped by high cliffs, deep valleys, and traditional communities like Santana, São Jorge, Boaventura and São Vicente. You’ll wander through the UNESCO Laurissilva forest, explore lost mountain hamlets, and taste authentic Madeira cuisine in local restaurants. If you’re an active hiker looking for real immersion, challenging trails, and unforgettable views, this is Madeira at its best.

Itinerary

Day 1 — Touchdown in Machico

You land at Madeira Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport by 1 PM. You instantly feel why they call it the Island of Eternal Spring. After a quick 10-minute transfer, you reach the south west coast for your first gentle introduction to island life. Take your time to wander the seaside promenade, stretch your legs, breathe in the Atlantic air, or grab your first pastel de nata. Today, you get to simply settle in, meet the group, and ease into Madeira’s rhythm.

Day 2 — Porto da Cruz Coastal Magic

You start by climbing up to Pico do Facho, where Machico shrinks behind you and the ocean opens wide. The Levada de Caniçal carries you through a peaceful valley full of eucalyptus and mimosa scents. Far in the distance, Porto Santo floats on the horizon like a mirage. Then comes the cliffside path — exposed, panoramic, unforgettable — guiding you to Maiata and finally Porto da Cruz, home to one of the world’s last traditional rum distilleries. A quick transfer (15 min) takes you to your cozy stay in Santana. Distance: 16 km (9.9 mi) | Elevation gain: +650m (2133ft) - 700m (2296ft) | Time: 4–6 hours

Day 3 — Boaventura Through the King’s Path

Leaving Santana, you stroll past its iconic triangular houses before the scenery suddenly drops into dramatic ocean cliffs. The route follows the ancient Caminho Real, once the lifeline between isolated villages. You pass São Jorge and Arco de São Jorge, framed by vineyards and green slopes tumbling into the sea. The trail feels like Madeira’s history carved under your feet. You end in Boaventura, deep in one of the island’s quietest valleys: a place where time slows, and nature takes over completely. Distance: 23 km (14.3 mi) | Elevation gain: +1200m (3937ft) - 900m (2952ft) | Time: 6–7 hours

Day 4 — Into the Laurissilva: São Vicente Bound

From Boaventura, you follow a coastal path to Ponta Delgada, a tiny village with volcanic beaches and a beautiful church watching over the waves. Leaving the sea behind, you begin climbing toward the heart of Madeira’s UNESCO Laurissilva forest — humid, green, ancient, and unlike any forest in Europe. The old footpath once used by locals leads you into the vast valley of São Vicente. As you descend, the views open into ridges, waterfalls, and patchwork houses — a postcard of Madeira’s timeless north. Distance: 12 km (7.4 mi) | Elevation gain: +1200m (3937ft) - 1000m (3280ft) | Time: 4–6 hours

Day 5 — Fajã Escura: The Lost Village

A transfer (less than 20 min) takes you up to Encumeada Pass, already surrounded by mountains. The trail climbs toward Boca do Cerro before plunging into the legendary Valley of the Nuns. The royal paths, chestnut groves, and abandoned villages along the way create a feeling of stepping back centuries. Everything becomes quieter, more remote, and almost mystical. Your day ends with a well-earned traditional espetada lunch cooked on a laurel stick. Then just a short transfer (10 mins) separates you from a relaxing night above the valley. Distance: 12.5 km (7.8 mi) | Elevation gain: +750m (2460ft) - 850m (2788ft) | Time: 4–6 hours

Day 6 — Areeiro to Ruivo: The High Ridge

This is the cherry on top of the cake: the hike everyone dreams of. Tunnels, staircases carved into rock, narrow passages, and volcanic towers shape one of Europe’s most iconic mountain trails. Transfer (30 mins) to Pico do Arieiro (1,818 m), where the hike begins. This trail follows the island’s central ridge all the way to Pico Ruivo (1,862 m), Madeira’s highest summit. The views are the kind you don’t forget. A descent toward Achadas do Teixeira closes the loop before heading back (15-min transfer) to a cozy cottage night in Santana. Distance: 8 km (5 mi) | Elevation gain: +900m (2952ft) - 800m (2624ft) | Time: 4–5 hours

Day 7 — Farewell Madeira

Your final morning in Madeira feels different: legs a little stronger, eyes a little fuller, heart a little lighter. Depending on your flight time, you can enjoy a slow breakfast, stroll around Santana, or squeeze in one last ocean view. Transfers will match your take-off schedule — we recommend from 1pm onward — giving you time to breathe and say your quiet goodbye to the island you’ve now walked across.

Important stuff

From the highest peaks to the hidden trails, we've got your back

100% Guaranteed Departures

Once you book, your trip is guaranteed to run, allowing you to book your flights with confidence.

Flexible Changes

Want to change your departure date or trip? No problem—enjoy maximum flexibility to make changes up to 60 days before departure.

Comprehensive Insurance & Assistance

Travel with peace of mind. Our insurance package covers accidents and rescue during outdoor activities, medical expenses, and luggage protection, as well as trip cancellations and 24/7 medical assistance from our insurance partner.

100% Guaranteed Departures: Once you book, your trip is guaranteed to run, allowing you to book your flights with confidence.
Flexible Changes: Want to change your departure date or trip? No problem—enjoy maximum flexibility to make changes up to 60 days before departure.
Comprehensive Insurance & Assistance: Travel with peace of mind. Our insurance package covers accidents and rescue during outdoor activities, medical expenses, and luggage protection, as well as trip cancellations and 24/7 medical assistance from our insurance partner.

see more on How it works

What's included

Accident insurance

Medical and luggage insurance

Travel cancellation insurance

Transport from airport

Transport to airport

All breakfast

All accommodations

All lunches

Certified guide

Transfers to the trail heads (hikes)

Flight

Visa (if applicable)

Dinners

Extra transfer

Everything not mentioned in the “What’s included”

Tips

Expenditure of personal nature

Optional activities not mentioned

Costs due to unforeseen events

Accomodations

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White Waters Hotel – Machico (Day 1)

A modern boutique hotel steps from Machico’s beach. Bright rooms, some with balconies, and a rooftop terrace overlooking mountains and sea. Perfect for a smooth arrival thanks to its proximity to the airport and town center.

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Hotel O Colmo – Santana (Days 2 and 6)

A rural 4-star hotel in the heart of traditional Santana. Spacious rooms with balconies, plus an indoor pool, spa, sauna, and restaurant. Ideal base to explore the wild north coast and its iconic landscapes.

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Solar da Boaventura – Boaventura (Day 3)

A peaceful rural quinta surrounded by deep green valleys. Rustic architecture meets comfort, creating a quiet retreat far from crowded areas. The perfect spot to rest after a long day on the historic Caminhos Reais.

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Solar da Bica – São Vicente (Day 4)

A tranquil guesthouse tucked into a lush valley. Cozy rooms, a garden, and an indoor pool with mountain views. Warm family vibes make it a soothing stop after crossing the Laurissilva forest.

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Eira do Serrado Hotel & Spa – Curral das Freiras (Day 5)

Perched above the Valley of the Nuns, this hotel offers one of Madeira’s most dramatic viewpoints. Spa facilities, direct trail access, and panoramic rooms make it a memorable mountain stay.

Guides

Elvio and Madeira Outdoors

Elvio is a certified local mountain guide with deep knowledge of Madeira’s landscapes, culture, and mountain routes. Warm, professional, and safety-focused, he has years of experience guiding hikers across the island. Elvio speaks English, Portuguese, Spanish and French, and ensures every guest feels supported, informed, and immersed in authentic Madeira.