While the adventures in the Madeira Islands are endless, these are a few of our favorite can’t-miss activities — from the sea to the mountains and everything in between.
Photo by Hugo Reis courtesy of Madeira
Go On a Levada Walk
Madeira is a hiking-lover’s dream with its natural wealth of mountains, forests, waterfalls and viewpoints. Visitors can take a stunning walk (or hike) along one of Madeira’s famous “Levadas” – historical irrigation canals that were built centuries ago and are still bringing water from the north slopes to south of the island. Now covered by the exuberant Laurissilva Forest (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), travelers can be in full contact with the island's unique and lush vegetation by hiking along these Levadas.
Photo by Andre Carvalho courtesy of Madeira
Indulge in the Rich Culinary Scene
Thanks to its subtropical climate and volcanic soils, Madeira has a rich culinary scene with a mix of traditional and contemporary dishes based on fresh and varied local ingredients. Traditional dishes from Madeira include countless delicacies like black scabbard fish, espetada (beef skewers seasoned with salt, garlic and bay leaf), grilled limpets and “bolo do caco” (typical Madeiran bread). Travelers can discover the flavors of Funchal on a food and wine walking tour or explore Madeira’s diverse restaurant scene.
Photo by Quinta do Barbusano courtesy of Madeira
Wine Tasting With a View
Known as its own wine region of Portugal, Madeira is one of the largest footholds for unique wine in the country. Madeira is famous for its namesake wine, and there is no shortage of unique experiences for tasting this world-renowned nectar. For wine tasting with a view, visitors won’t want to miss these wineries nestled amongst the island’s lush landscapes: Quinta do Barbusano, Terrabona Nature & Vineyards and Vinhos Terras do Avô.
Photo by Duarte Sol courtesy of Madeira
Watch the Sun Rise Above the Clouds
For a one-of-a-kind morning adventure, visitors can start their day bright and early with a Jeep tour to the popular sunrise viewing point on Madeira’s third highest peak, Pico do Areeiro. The early wakeup call is worth it for this truly unbeatable view. After watching the sun rise above the clouds, vacationers can travel via Jeep through the mountains to experience Madeira’s most dramatic landscapes.
Photo by Ricardo Faria Paulino courtesy of Madeira
Swim In the Natural Pools
A visit to Madeira is not complete without a stop at the region’s natural swimming pools located off the shore of Porto Moniz, Seixal and Funchal. Formed by volcanic rocks, these saltwater pools are one of the most iconic spots on the island’s north coast and are an excellent place for a refreshing dip. Among the most popular are the Cachalote Natural Swimming Pools and Natural Pools of Porto Moniz, both providing tranquility among their picturesque atmospheres.
Photo by Francisco Correia courtesy of Madeira
Visit Fajã Dos Padres
For a relaxing seaside afternoon, travelers can visit the quaint farming village of Fajã dos Padres, accessible only by cable car or boat. This little oasis is made up of a restaurant, vineyard and beach, all located on its organic farm. Here visitors can enjoy the ocean breeze while relaxing over a plate of Portuguese food and tasting Malmsey wine at its source.
Photo by Francisco Correia courtesy of Madeira
Take a Boat Tour
As a destination so widely marked by the omnipresence of the vast Atlantic Ocean, what better way to see panoramic views of Madeira than from the sea? A boat tour provides an excellent opportunity to spot whales, dolphins, turtles and seabirds. Visitors can rent a private yacht, catamaran, fishing boat or sailing vessel and customize their experience based on what they’re looking for, whether it be a relaxing cruise, romantic sunset sail or a whale and dolphin watching adventure.
Photo by Fabio Brito courtesy of Madeira
Take a Day Trip to Porto Santo
As the smallest inhabited island of the Madeira archipelago, Porto Santo offers a calm atmosphere and a long, golden beach that covers nearly the entire southern coast. Its sand has therapeutic properties. This little paradise is located just 31 miles from the main island of Madeira and is easily reached via a two-hour ferry ride or 12-minute flight. Travelers can take a day trip to Porto Santo to experience the tranquility of this golden oasis.
Photo by DigitalTravelCouple courtesy of Madeira
Explore the Impressive Botanical Gardens
The island of Madeira is filled to the brim with lush, tropical green spaces, and a visit to the destination is not complete without a stop at one of its many gardens. Travelers can take the Funchal cable car to explore Monte Palace Tropical Gardens where they can immerse themselves in the island’s lively and diverse flora and fauna life. To get back down to Funchal, visitors can take a toboggan ride aboard an iconic Monte basket car through the hills of the capital city.
Photo by Ricardo Faria Paulino courtesy of Madeira
Visit the Enchanting Fanal Forest
Located in the municipality of Porto Moniz, the Fanal Forest is one of the most emblematic spots of Madeira. This beautiful, forested area is home to part of the Laurisilva Forest and is known for its unique, mystical atmosphere. Travelers will be transported into a fairytale-like scene when they visit this magical forest.
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