Be around the island
Small volcanic island in the exuberant nature, Madeira offers the hiker impressive landscapes and amazing diversity.
This route starts from the tip of São Lourenço at the eastern end of the island to reach the village of Jardim do Mar in the southwest through the peaks of Ruivo, Arieiro and Jorge before joining the capital of Funchal. Mineral crests emerge from the primary forest, "Laurissilva" and tear in deep lush valleys, "ribeiras". Around the cliffs, stretches to the sea, the terraces of tropical crops, banana, sugar cane and yams, irrigated by the"Levadas". The colorful flowers give the island the name of Pearl of the Atlantic!
*We can take care of the transfers, hotels and picnics
Just a small exemple of how much fun you can have in a week:
Day 1: Ponta de São Lourenço
The wild point of São Lourenço on the east end of the island. Landscapes moors and cornices shapes and remarkable colors are several interesting aspects to blow your breath away. Swimming on a small turquoise beach makes the return pleasant.
Walking time: 3 to 5h (8km/ 5mile)
Height difference: +150m/ +492ft ; -150m/ -492ft
Day 2: Machico - Porto da Cruz
We leave in the morning for a coastal hike that connects Machico to Porto da Cruz. First we climb to join the levada of Canical which we do about 4km/ 2,5mile between the housing and the terraced fields in valley's of mimosas and eucalyptus. We then arrive a flank path on the cliffs known as Larano. After crossing one of the most beautiful paths we descend to Porto da Cruz. On arrival, you can swim in a small black sandy beach after visiting a unique rum distillery, because it is the only one in Europe which machinery still works with steam. You can enjoy the taste of Madeira Poncha.
Walking time: 5 to 6h (16km/ 10mile)
Height difference: +350m/ +1148ft ; -350m/ -1148ft
Day 3: Achada do Teixeira - Encumeada
This morning the starting point of our hike is Achada do Teixeira. Travelling to the highest mountain in Madeira we cross ridges lined with precipices in high alpine landscapes. At the highest point, Pico Ruivo with its altitude of 1862m/ 6108ft, you get a clear view of a large part of the island. You will then head towards the southern coast of the island always on top of the ridge, on a route that leads you up to Pico Jorge and then descend to Encumeada.
Walking time: 6 to 7h (19km/ 11,8mile)
Height difference: +600m/ +1968ft ; -800/ -2624ft
Day 4: Fanal - Seixal
Today we start in Fanal and descend through an ancient path of the cowherds and shepherds until, Seixal. Walking in a forest of heather trees we have amazing views over one of the most beautiful valleys in Madeira, Ribeira da Janela.
Walking time: 6 to 7h (16km/ 9,9mile)
Height difference: -1000m/ -3280ft
Day 5: Levada do Alecrim - Lageado
Today, we return to the summit of Paul da Serra where we start the walk on the Levada do Alecrim. In this forest there are small beautiful lakes were you can go for a cold bath. We then climb to one of the oldest levadas built in Madeira, Levada Velha do Lageado. Transfer to a hotel in the southwest by the sea in Jardim do Mar.
Walking time: 5 to 6h (12km/ 7,4mile)
Height difference: +300m/ +984ft ; -300/ -984ft
Day 6: Discovering Funchal
A little walk around Funchal city center and old town. Free afternoon where you can visit museums, take the catamaran to see dolphins and whales or just go up in the cable car to Monte.