Around Madeira

In the small fishing village of Porto da Cruz, you can relax on the black sand beach. You can also visit one of the last sugar cane mills where you can taste the famous "poncha", a local drink made from sugar cane brandy, honey and freshly squeezed orange juice.

After a short transfer to Machico, you will walk along the impressive north coast on 'the saddle of Boca do Risco' via an old supply route that used to work the vineyards. Today one of the most beautiful paths along this route leads to Porto da Cruz, where the spectacularly landscaped terraces still inspire. Enjoy the breathtaking view.

In the traditional village of Santana, known for its typical houses, the route starts on this day. With panoramic views from the rocky coast, past small gardens with vines, sugar cane, vegetables and fruits, climb to the lookout point. Here you look out over the entire north coast from Porto Moniz to Ponta de São Lourenco and in good weather, you can see the neighbouring island of Porto Santo to the north. The beautiful King Levada then leads you through jungle-like vegetation to the waterfall and springs of Ribiero Bonito.

Transfer to the mountains to the plateau of Paul da Serra. Today's walk will bring you closer to the green mountainous area of ​​Madeira. Along paths with scenic views, you will walk on the mountain ridges and pass shady laurel forests, which are part of the UNESCO World Heritage. A great hiking trail leads you through colourful flowering gorse bushes to Fanal, a fairytale forest and meadow area: wind piles, lichen trees, green plains and grazing by Highland cattle create a very special and mystical atmosphere. In the afternoon you will reach the seaside town of Porto Moniz with a beautiful view of the azure sea. This charming place is known for its natural pools of black lava rocks formed by the ocean.

Today you walk along the southwest coast over the green hills, which then steeply into the sea. In this part of the island, you will experience the original life of the islanders, especially Prazeres is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Madeira. On your walk through the fragrant eucalyptus forest, you will see the wild Callas, Amaryllis and Agapanthus again and again. Overnight stay in the lively coastal town of Calheta with a fine sandy beach and an elegant marina.

Short transfer along the south coast before heading to the spectacular Levada do Norte, the longest and widest Levada in the south. You walk through typically cultivated terraces and discover the most varied fruits in the gardens. Via small towns such as Quinta Grande and Campanario, you reach Cabo Girao, the highest rock in Europe. From there you have a fantastic view of the terraced fields below you and the coast to the capital Funchal.

The funicular takes you to the pilgrimage town of Monte, high above Funchal. After visiting the Church of Nossa Senhora do Monte, watch the lightning-fast riders on the toboggan, made of reed sledges, before starting your varied final stage. With stunning views of the Funchal coast, your way leads through the subtropical island vegetation and back to the capital. Be sure to visit the beautiful botanical garden, which brings you closer to the exotic plant world of the 740 km2 island.