Wandering Wilma

Madeira is a dream destination for hikers. With its diverse landscapes, from dramatic peaks to lush forests, the island offers many of hiking trails that showcase its natural beauty. Here’s a detailed 1-week itinerary to help you make the most of your hiking adventure in Madeira.

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Funchal

Morning:

• Arrival in Funchal: Land at Cristiano Ronaldo Airport and make your way to your accommodation in Funchal, the island’s vibrant capital.
• Check-In: Settle into your hotel or Airbnb, preferably in the city center for easy access to local attractions.

Afternoon:

• Stroll Around Funchal: Take a leisurely walk through Funchal’s historic center. Visit the Mercado dos Lavradores to sample exotic fruits and admire the colourful flowers.
• Lunch: Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant. Try traditional dishes like espada com banana (scabbard fish with banana).

Evening:

• Botanical Garden Visit: Head to Jardim Botânico da Madeira. Explore the lush gardens, home to over 2,500 plant species, and enjoy panoramic views of Funchal.
• Dinner: Return to Funchal and dine at a local restaurant. Relax and prepare for the hiking adventures ahead.

Day 2: PR.1 Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo

Morning:

• Early Start: Leave Funchal early (around 6 a.m.) to drive to Pico do Arieiro, the island’s third-highest peak. Be early so you can park at the car park at the top and watch the amazing sunrise before you start hiking.
• Hiking: Begin your hike to Pico Ruivo. This challenging trail offers stunning views and takes you through tunnels and along narrow ridges. The hike is approximately 10 km round trip and can take 5-7 hours.

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at Pico Ruivo, Madeira’s highest peak. The views from the summit are breathtaking.
• Return Hike: Hike back to Pico do Arieiro and enjoy the changing landscapes along the way.

Evening:

• Relaxation: Return to Funchal and relax. Treat yourself to a well-deserved dinner at a cozy restaurant.

Day 3: Levada Walks – PR.9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde

Morning:

• Travel to Queimadas: Drive to the Queimadas Forestry Park, the starting point for the Levada do Caldeirão Verde hike.
• Hiking: Embark on this 13 km round-trip hike. The trail follows an ancient levada (irrigation channel) through lush greenery, tunnels, and ends at the stunning Caldeirão Verde waterfall.

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch near the waterfall before starting your return hike.
• Return Hike: Hike back to Queimadas, soaking in the serene forest atmosphere.

Evening:

• Return to Funchal: Head back to Funchal for dinner and a restful evening.

Day 4: Ponta de São Lourenço

Morning:

• Travel to Ponta de São Lourenço: Drive to the easternmost point of Madeira.
• Hiking: Start your hike on the Ponta de São Lourenço trail. This 8 km round-trip hike offers stunning coastal views and unique volcanic landscapes.

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy with views of the Atlantic Ocean.
• Return Hike: Hike back to the trailhead, taking in the dramatic scenery.

Evening:

• Return to Funchal: Head back to Funchal and explore more of the city’s culinary delights for dinner.

Day 5: PR.6 Levada das 25 Fontes

Morning:

• Travel to Rabaçal: Drive to the Rabaçal Forestry Station, the starting point for the Levada das 25 Fontes hike.
• Hiking: Begin the hike to the 25 Fontes (25 Springs). This 11 km round-trip hike takes you through a lush landscape to a beautiful lagoon surrounded by waterfalls.

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch at the 25 Fontes lagoon.
• Return Hike: Hike back to Rabaçal, possibly taking a detour to the Risco Waterfall for more stunning views.

Evening:

• Return to Funchal: Head back to Funchal for dinner and relaxation.

Day 6: Exploring Laurisilva Forest with PR. 11

Morning:

• Travel to Ribeiro Frio: Drive to Ribeiro Frio, a starting point for several trails in the Laurisilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Hiking: Hike the Vereda dos Balcões trail. This easy 3 km round-trip hike offers breathtaking views of the lush valley and surrounding mountains.

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Have lunch at a local restaurant in Ribeiro Frio, famous for its trout dishes.
• Additional Hike: If you’re up for more, try the longer PR. 10 Levada do Furado trail, which winds through the forest offering more stunning views.

Evening:

• Return to Funchal: Head back to Funchal for dinner and a relaxing evening.

Day 7: Beach and Relaxation

Morning:

• Travel to Fajã dos Padres: Drive to the cable car station and descend to Fajã dos Padres beach.
• Relaxation: Spend your day relaxing on this secluded beach. Swim in the crystal-clear waters and soak up the sun.

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Enjoy a meal at the beachside restaurant, savouring fresh, local dishes.
• Exploration: Wander around, exploring the unique landscape and perhaps enjoying a short walk.

Evening:

• Return to Funchal: Head back to Funchal for your final dinner on the island.

Let’s Go Hiking

Madeira’s diverse hiking trails offer something for everyone, from challenging mountain hikes to serene levada walks. This 1-week itinerary ensures you experience the best of Madeira’s natural beauty while also allowing time for relaxation and exploration. Whether you’re scaling peaks or strolling through lush forests, Madeira promises an unforgettable adventure for every hiker.

Enjoy your adventure,

L. as Wilma