Madeira is the island of endless spring. An island that is green even in December, rich in waterfalls, levadas and amazing views. The island will be appreciated not only by ordinary tourists, but also by photographers or fruit lovers, which is available here all year round thanks to the pleasant conditions. Together we will taste, for example, the most delicious fruits in the world.
Madeira is stunning in every part of the island and so we will travel all over the island. From the easternmost point of the island, to the highest mountain and even every side of the island. And you can find out exactly what to look forward to in the itinerary below.
What I recommend packing: sturdy shoes, headgear, sunscreen, swimsuit, a small, stowable travel towel, raincoat or waterproof layer in case of rain. (Alternatively, you can also use it at some of the levadas/waterfalls.)
On the day of arrival in Madeira, we will pick up the car at the airport and set off together for our first introduction to the island.
This place will be the starting point for our next trip, however, on the day of arrival we will go here to see the coast, the ocean and to relax after a long plane ride. There is also a mobile kiosk where we can buy something to drink or eat and enjoy the views we will get. :)
(Those who will be sitting on the left side of the plane when arriving on the island can see this place from the window.)
The very next morning, we will go again to the place from the previous day Ponta de São Lourenço and see the viewpoint Miradouro Ponta do Furado, which is located at the easternmost point of the island. The drive there is 3.5km (about 1.5 hours) from the car park, and it is the same way there and back on beaten paths or trails. There are minor climbs or descents in places, but overall the path is easy. All the way you can admire the cliffs of this headland and at the end of the route you will have a view of the rest of the headland in the ocean. Below the finish lookout is a bistro among the palm trees where you can refresh yourself.
+ Along the way there are also two opportunities for swimming, if you wish and the conditions are favourable, we can even take a dip.
+ If you wish, we can head here on this day for sunrise.
+ I recommend bringing sturdy shoes, a small lightweight travel towel, swimsuit, headgear, sunscreen.
+ If the weather is inclement, we will reschedule this trip for another day. This site is in a completely open area and there is nowhere to shelter from strong winds or rain.
+ I recommend going early on this trip due to the number of tourists that visit this popular site.
When we return, we will move the car a few minutes away and see the cliffs and part of Ponta de São Lourenço from the other side.
On the way back to our accommodation we head to the small town of Porta da Cruz and walk along the waterfront. There are also opportunities for swimming or restaurants in the town. You can sample Madeiran delicacies such as Limpet Pan Mussels or the local deep sea fish, the Tangled Blackfish, at the local A Pipa restaurant.
The last spot of the day will be this lookout right by the small parking lot, which has both a rocky cliff and a glass lookout.
The next day we will wake up very early and go together to the sunrise on the highest mountain of Madeira, Pico Ruivo, which is 1862 m above sea level. . We will arrive by car at the car park at the foot of the mountain and we will do the PR 1.1 trek, which is 2.8km long and we will climb 333m above sea level, the journey from the car park to the top will take about 1.15 hours and you can already enjoy the beautiful views on the way, but you will enjoy them more on the way back to the car. :)
+ I recommend sturdy footwear, headlamps and choose clothing suitable for the lower morning temperatures or the wind that can be present at the summit.
There are two options for refreshments on the way down from Pico Ruivo. One is just below the summit and the other is by the parking lot. Which one you want to use for your morning coffee with views I'll leave up to you. :) They also have delicious cakes or savoury food options at the car park.
We can stop on the way down and look at the views the path offers.
We will stop in our town of Santana to see the traditional houses of Madeira. Here we can buy something good to eat at the nearby markets.
The next place is a rocky beach with the ruins of São Jorge. It is a stone gate in a small village. Above the beach there is a small lookout where we can also go to see. Then we move a short distance next door to the Ponta de São Jorge Lighthouse, from where we follow paths and footbridges to the natural pools where we can swim.
In the morning, after breakfast and packing our things, we will go to the parking lot of this Levada. From there we will head to our first Levada where you can enjoy 3 waterfalls, tunnels and if we are lucky, a finch feeding.
The whole Levada to the finish is 6km and follows the same route there and back. So 12km in total. :)
If someone doesn't want to walk the whole Levada, it's not a problem and the length of the journey can be agreed. At the starting point of the route at the car park there is a possibility of refreshment in a very pleasant environment.
After an hour's drive towards our second accommodation, we stop at another glass viewpoint. This time, the glass part is located at a height of half a kilometer and the view from it will be really different than from the previous viewpoint.
The accommodation is located on a hillside overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Accommodation options are either villas or apartments.
On-site there is an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, a wellness centre with sauna and massage, a games room with billiards and table football, tennis court, mini golf, a restaurant with traditional Madeiran cuisine or there is also a fully equipped kitchenette where you can cook to your heart's content.
Breakfast is a buffet and snack bar.
There is also a mini-market on site where you can shop.
In the morning, after breakfast, we will go to Pico Ariero with 1818 m above sea level, from which there is a beautiful view not only of Pico Ruivo. We will explore the surrounding area and other viewpoints. By car we will drive to the bottom of the peak and from here we will have a short climb to the view.
Then we move on to Levada dos Balcões. A very short Levada of 0.6km in length, where at the end of it there is a viewpoint with the possibility of feeding finches.
Another of the most interesting sights in Madeira. It is located at 1095 m above sea level and from this vantage point you have the Valley of the Nuns below in the palm of your hand. The viewpoint can be reached by car and is only 300m from the car park.
Westward we head to the town of Ponta do Sol, to see the pier and the waterfall across the road, which is very popular.
After breakfast in the morning, we head to Fanal, where there are iconic laurel trees and hopefully the fog will clear. It is better to arrive early because of the number of tourists. You can also enjoy the cows moving freely among the trees.
On my visit in December, I caught the beautiful weather and had a Fanal completely free of fog.
Then I'll go back a little bit and we'll go to the 25 falls levada. The levada is 3.7km to the finish line. On the way back, we can turn off at the refreshment area for the second levada with the Lagoa do Vento waterfall. This hike with both levadas is just under 11km.
Again, anyone who doesn't want to walk the whole route has no problem making arrangements. :)
Black sandy beaches and natural pools. A place to relax after a lazy day.
A small town on the coast with other natural pools. If you want, you can try these too and then we will look at the view and the waves if the conditions are good.
We will then slowly make our way along the coast back to our accommodation. From here you will see another amazing waterfall on the island.
A place to enjoy the sunset.
On the last day we will move to the capital. We'll see the waterfront, the oldest market in the city, the alleys in the old part of town with the iconic painted doors. If you want, we can also take a cable car to the botanical garden above the city.
+ There is also a statue and museum of Cristiano Ronaldo, a Madeiran native, on the waterfront in the capital.
+ The cable car ride to the botanical gardens costs €18 round trip/person.
We will agree on the programme for the last day on the spot, depending on what we want to do. After that, it's just a flight. :)
If you want, I will mention in advance that you can bring fruit or flowers on the plane. There is a cut flower shop at the airport, but you won't find a fruit shop there. Beyond the security checkpoint, there are only regular shops. So I would recommend thinking ahead in the case of fruit. :)
Madeira is the island of endless spring. An island that is green even in December, rich in waterfalls, levadas and amazing views. The island will be appreciated not only by ordinary tourists, but also by photographers or fruit lovers, which is available here all year round thanks to the pleasant conditions. Together we will taste, for example, the most delicious fruits in the world.
Madeira is stunning in every part of the island and so we will travel all over the island. From the easternmost point of the island, to the highest mountain and even every side of the island. And you can find out exactly what to look forward to in the itinerary below.
What I recommend packing: sturdy shoes, headgear, sunscreen, swimsuit, a small, stowable travel towel, raincoat or waterproof layer in case of rain. (Alternatively, you can also use it at some of the levadas/waterfalls.)
On the day of arrival in Madeira, we will pick up the car at the airport and set off together for our first introduction to the island.
This place will be the starting point for our next trip, however, on the day of arrival we will go here to see the coast, the ocean and to relax after a long plane ride. There is also a mobile kiosk where we can buy something to drink or eat and enjoy the views we will get. :)
(Those who will be sitting on the left side of the plane when arriving on the island can see this place from the window.)
The very next morning, we will go again to the place from the previous day Ponta de São Lourenço and see the viewpoint Miradouro Ponta do Furado, which is located at the easternmost point of the island. The drive there is 3.5km (about 1.5 hours) from the car park, and it is the same way there and back on beaten paths or trails. There are minor climbs or descents in places, but overall the path is easy. All the way you can admire the cliffs of this headland and at the end of the route you will have a view of the rest of the headland in the ocean. Below the finish lookout is a bistro among the palm trees where you can refresh yourself.
+ Along the way there are also two opportunities for swimming, if you wish and the conditions are favourable, we can even take a dip.
+ If you wish, we can head here on this day for sunrise.
+ I recommend bringing sturdy shoes, a small lightweight travel towel, swimsuit, headgear, sunscreen.
+ If the weather is inclement, we will reschedule this trip for another day. This site is in a completely open area and there is nowhere to shelter from strong winds or rain.
+ I recommend going early on this trip due to the number of tourists that visit this popular site.
When we return, we will move the car a few minutes away and see the cliffs and part of Ponta de São Lourenço from the other side.
On the way back to our accommodation we head to the small town of Porta da Cruz and walk along the waterfront. There are also opportunities for swimming or restaurants in the town. You can sample Madeiran delicacies such as Limpet Pan Mussels or the local deep sea fish, the Tangled Blackfish, at the local A Pipa restaurant.
The last spot of the day will be this lookout right by the small parking lot, which has both a rocky cliff and a glass lookout.
The next day we will wake up very early and go together to the sunrise on the highest mountain of Madeira, Pico Ruivo, which is 1862 m above sea level. . We will arrive by car at the car park at the foot of the mountain and we will do the PR 1.1 trek, which is 2.8km long and we will climb 333m above sea level, the journey from the car park to the top will take about 1.15 hours and you can already enjoy the beautiful views on the way, but you will enjoy them more on the way back to the car. :)
+ I recommend sturdy footwear, headlamps and choose clothing suitable for the lower morning temperatures or the wind that can be present at the summit.
There are two options for refreshments on the way down from Pico Ruivo. One is just below the summit and the other is by the parking lot. Which one you want to use for your morning coffee with views I'll leave up to you. :) They also have delicious cakes or savoury food options at the car park.
We can stop on the way down and look at the views the path offers.
We will stop in our town of Santana to see the traditional houses of Madeira. Here we can buy something good to eat at the nearby markets.
The next place is a rocky beach with the ruins of São Jorge. It is a stone gate in a small village. Above the beach there is a small lookout where we can also go to see. Then we move a short distance next door to the Ponta de São Jorge Lighthouse, from where we follow paths and footbridges to the natural pools where we can swim.
In the morning, after breakfast and packing our things, we will go to the parking lot of this Levada. From there we will head to our first Levada where you can enjoy 3 waterfalls, tunnels and if we are lucky, a finch feeding.
The whole Levada to the finish is 6km and follows the same route there and back. So 12km in total. :)
If someone doesn't want to walk the whole Levada, it's not a problem and the length of the journey can be agreed. At the starting point of the route at the car park there is a possibility of refreshment in a very pleasant environment.
After an hour's drive towards our second accommodation, we stop at another glass viewpoint. This time, the glass part is located at a height of half a kilometer and the view from it will be really different than from the previous viewpoint.
The accommodation is located on a hillside overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Accommodation options are either villas or apartments.
On-site there is an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, a wellness centre with sauna and massage, a games room with billiards and table football, tennis court, mini golf, a restaurant with traditional Madeiran cuisine or there is also a fully equipped kitchenette where you can cook to your heart's content.
Breakfast is a buffet and snack bar.
There is also a mini-market on site where you can shop.
In the morning, after breakfast, we will go to Pico Ariero with 1818 m above sea level, from which there is a beautiful view not only of Pico Ruivo. We will explore the surrounding area and other viewpoints. By car we will drive to the bottom of the peak and from here we will have a short climb to the view.
Then we move on to Levada dos Balcões. A very short Levada of 0.6km in length, where at the end of it there is a viewpoint with the possibility of feeding finches.
Another of the most interesting sights in Madeira. It is located at 1095 m above sea level and from this vantage point you have the Valley of the Nuns below in the palm of your hand. The viewpoint can be reached by car and is only 300m from the car park.
Westward we head to the town of Ponta do Sol, to see the pier and the waterfall across the road, which is very popular.
After breakfast in the morning, we head to Fanal, where there are iconic laurel trees and hopefully the fog will clear. It is better to arrive early because of the number of tourists. You can also enjoy the cows moving freely among the trees.
On my visit in December, I caught the beautiful weather and had a Fanal completely free of fog.
Then I'll go back a little bit and we'll go to the 25 falls levada. The levada is 3.7km to the finish line. On the way back, we can turn off at the refreshment area for the second levada with the Lagoa do Vento waterfall. This hike with both levadas is just under 11km.
Again, anyone who doesn't want to walk the whole route has no problem making arrangements. :)
Black sandy beaches and natural pools. A place to relax after a lazy day.
A small town on the coast with other natural pools. If you want, you can try these too and then we will look at the view and the waves if the conditions are good.
We will then slowly make our way along the coast back to our accommodation. From here you will see another amazing waterfall on the island.
A place to enjoy the sunset.
On the last day we will move to the capital. We'll see the waterfront, the oldest market in the city, the alleys in the old part of town with the iconic painted doors. If you want, we can also take a cable car to the botanical garden above the city.
+ There is also a statue and museum of Cristiano Ronaldo, a Madeiran native, on the waterfront in the capital.
+ The cable car ride to the botanical gardens costs €18 round trip/person.
We will agree on the programme for the last day on the spot, depending on what we want to do. After that, it's just a flight. :)
If you want, I will mention in advance that you can bring fruit or flowers on the plane. There is a cut flower shop at the airport, but you won't find a fruit shop there. Beyond the security checkpoint, there are only regular shops. So I would recommend thinking ahead in the case of fruit. :)
itinerary by Freecoolina
Madeira is the island of endless spring. An island that is green even in December, rich in waterfalls, levadas and amazing views. The island will be appreciated not only by ordinary tourists, but also by photographers or fruit lovers, which is available here all year round thanks to the pleasant conditions. Together we will taste, for example, the most delicious fruits in the world.
Madeira is stunning in every part of the island and so we will travel all over the island. From the easternmost point of the island, to the highest mountain and even every side of the island. And you can find out exactly what to look forward to in the itinerary below.
What I recommend packing: sturdy shoes, headgear, sunscreen, swimsuit, a small, stowable travel towel, raincoat or waterproof layer in case of rain. (Alternatively, you can also use it at some of the levadas/waterfalls.)
On the day of arrival in Madeira, we will pick up the car at the airport and set off together for our first introduction to the island.
This place will be the starting point for our next trip, however, on the day of arrival we will go here to see the coast, the ocean and to relax after a long plane ride. There is also a mobile kiosk where we can buy something to drink or eat and enjoy the views we will get. :)
(Those who will be sitting on the left side of the plane when arriving on the island can see this place from the window.)
The very next morning, we will go again to the place from the previous day Ponta de São Lourenço and see the viewpoint Miradouro Ponta do Furado, which is located at the easternmost point of the island. The drive there is 3.5km (about 1.5 hours) from the car park, and it is the same way there and back on beaten paths or trails. There are minor climbs or descents in places, but overall the path is easy. All the way you can admire the cliffs of this headland and at the end of the route you will have a view of the rest of the headland in the ocean. Below the finish lookout is a bistro among the palm trees where you can refresh yourself.
+ Along the way there are also two opportunities for swimming, if you wish and the conditions are favourable, we can even take a dip.
+ If you wish, we can head here on this day for sunrise.
+ I recommend bringing sturdy shoes, a small lightweight travel towel, swimsuit, headgear, sunscreen.
+ If the weather is inclement, we will reschedule this trip for another day. This site is in a completely open area and there is nowhere to shelter from strong winds or rain.
+ I recommend going early on this trip due to the number of tourists that visit this popular site.
When we return, we will move the car a few minutes away and see the cliffs and part of Ponta de São Lourenço from the other side.
On the way back to our accommodation we head to the small town of Porta da Cruz and walk along the waterfront. There are also opportunities for swimming or restaurants in the town. You can sample Madeiran delicacies such as Limpet Pan Mussels or the local deep sea fish, the Tangled Blackfish, at the local A Pipa restaurant.
The last spot of the day will be this lookout right by the small parking lot, which has both a rocky cliff and a glass lookout.
The next day we will wake up very early and go together to the sunrise on the highest mountain of Madeira, Pico Ruivo, which is 1862 m above sea level. . We will arrive by car at the car park at the foot of the mountain and we will do the PR 1.1 trek, which is 2.8km long and we will climb 333m above sea level, the journey from the car park to the top will take about 1.15 hours and you can already enjoy the beautiful views on the way, but you will enjoy them more on the way back to the car. :)
+ I recommend sturdy footwear, headlamps and choose clothing suitable for the lower morning temperatures or the wind that can be present at the summit.
There are two options for refreshments on the way down from Pico Ruivo. One is just below the summit and the other is by the parking lot. Which one you want to use for your morning coffee with views I'll leave up to you. :) They also have delicious cakes or savoury food options at the car park.
We can stop on the way down and look at the views the path offers.
We will stop in our town of Santana to see the traditional houses of Madeira. Here we can buy something good to eat at the nearby markets.
The next place is a rocky beach with the ruins of São Jorge. It is a stone gate in a small village. Above the beach there is a small lookout where we can also go to see. Then we move a short distance next door to the Ponta de São Jorge Lighthouse, from where we follow paths and footbridges to the natural pools where we can swim.
In the morning, after breakfast and packing our things, we will go to the parking lot of this Levada. From there we will head to our first Levada where you can enjoy 3 waterfalls, tunnels and if we are lucky, a finch feeding.
The whole Levada to the finish is 6km and follows the same route there and back. So 12km in total. :)
If someone doesn't want to walk the whole Levada, it's not a problem and the length of the journey can be agreed. At the starting point of the route at the car park there is a possibility of refreshment in a very pleasant environment.
After an hour's drive towards our second accommodation, we stop at another glass viewpoint. This time, the glass part is located at a height of half a kilometer and the view from it will be really different than from the previous viewpoint.
The accommodation is located on a hillside overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Accommodation options are either villas or apartments.
On-site there is an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, a wellness centre with sauna and massage, a games room with billiards and table football, tennis court, mini golf, a restaurant with traditional Madeiran cuisine or there is also a fully equipped kitchenette where you can cook to your heart's content.
Breakfast is a buffet and snack bar.
There is also a mini-market on site where you can shop.
In the morning, after breakfast, we will go to Pico Ariero with 1818 m above sea level, from which there is a beautiful view not only of Pico Ruivo. We will explore the surrounding area and other viewpoints. By car we will drive to the bottom of the peak and from here we will have a short climb to the view.
Then we move on to Levada dos Balcões. A very short Levada of 0.6km in length, where at the end of it there is a viewpoint with the possibility of feeding finches.
Another of the most interesting sights in Madeira. It is located at 1095 m above sea level and from this vantage point you have the Valley of the Nuns below in the palm of your hand. The viewpoint can be reached by car and is only 300m from the car park.
Westward we head to the town of Ponta do Sol, to see the pier and the waterfall across the road, which is very popular.
After breakfast in the morning, we head to Fanal, where there are iconic laurel trees and hopefully the fog will clear. It is better to arrive early because of the number of tourists. You can also enjoy the cows moving freely among the trees.
On my visit in December, I caught the beautiful weather and had a Fanal completely free of fog.
Then I'll go back a little bit and we'll go to the 25 falls levada. The levada is 3.7km to the finish line. On the way back, we can turn off at the refreshment area for the second levada with the Lagoa do Vento waterfall. This hike with both levadas is just under 11km.
Again, anyone who doesn't want to walk the whole route has no problem making arrangements. :)
Black sandy beaches and natural pools. A place to relax after a lazy day.
A small town on the coast with other natural pools. If you want, you can try these too and then we will look at the view and the waves if the conditions are good.
We will then slowly make our way along the coast back to our accommodation. From here you will see another amazing waterfall on the island.
A place to enjoy the sunset.
On the last day we will move to the capital. We'll see the waterfront, the oldest market in the city, the alleys in the old part of town with the iconic painted doors. If you want, we can also take a cable car to the botanical garden above the city.
+ There is also a statue and museum of Cristiano Ronaldo, a Madeiran native, on the waterfront in the capital.
+ The cable car ride to the botanical gardens costs €18 round trip/person.
We will agree on the programme for the last day on the spot, depending on what we want to do. After that, it's just a flight. :)
If you want, I will mention in advance that you can bring fruit or flowers on the plane. There is a cut flower shop at the airport, but you won't find a fruit shop there. Beyond the security checkpoint, there are only regular shops. So I would recommend thinking ahead in the case of fruit. :)
Madeira is the island of endless spring. An island that is green even in December, rich in waterfalls, levadas and amazing views. The island will be appreciated not only by ordinary tourists, but also by photographers or fruit lovers, which is available here all year round thanks to the pleasant conditions. Together we will taste, for example, the most delicious fruits in the world.
Madeira is stunning in every part of the island and so we will travel all over the island. From the easternmost point of the island, to the highest mountain and even every side of the island. And you can find out exactly what to look forward to in the itinerary below.
What I recommend packing: sturdy shoes, headgear, sunscreen, swimsuit, a small, stowable travel towel, raincoat or waterproof layer in case of rain. (Alternatively, you can also use it at some of the levadas/waterfalls.)
On the day of arrival in Madeira, we will pick up the car at the airport and set off together for our first introduction to the island.
This place will be the starting point for our next trip, however, on the day of arrival we will go here to see the coast, the ocean and to relax after a long plane ride. There is also a mobile kiosk where we can buy something to drink or eat and enjoy the views we will get. :)
(Those who will be sitting on the left side of the plane when arriving on the island can see this place from the window.)
The very next morning, we will go again to the place from the previous day Ponta de São Lourenço and see the viewpoint Miradouro Ponta do Furado, which is located at the easternmost point of the island. The drive there is 3.5km (about 1.5 hours) from the car park, and it is the same way there and back on beaten paths or trails. There are minor climbs or descents in places, but overall the path is easy. All the way you can admire the cliffs of this headland and at the end of the route you will have a view of the rest of the headland in the ocean. Below the finish lookout is a bistro among the palm trees where you can refresh yourself.
+ Along the way there are also two opportunities for swimming, if you wish and the conditions are favourable, we can even take a dip.
+ If you wish, we can head here on this day for sunrise.
+ I recommend bringing sturdy shoes, a small lightweight travel towel, swimsuit, headgear, sunscreen.
+ If the weather is inclement, we will reschedule this trip for another day. This site is in a completely open area and there is nowhere to shelter from strong winds or rain.
+ I recommend going early on this trip due to the number of tourists that visit this popular site.
When we return, we will move the car a few minutes away and see the cliffs and part of Ponta de São Lourenço from the other side.
On the way back to our accommodation we head to the small town of Porta da Cruz and walk along the waterfront. There are also opportunities for swimming or restaurants in the town. You can sample Madeiran delicacies such as Limpet Pan Mussels or the local deep sea fish, the Tangled Blackfish, at the local A Pipa restaurant.
The last spot of the day will be this lookout right by the small parking lot, which has both a rocky cliff and a glass lookout.
The next day we will wake up very early and go together to the sunrise on the highest mountain of Madeira, Pico Ruivo, which is 1862 m above sea level. . We will arrive by car at the car park at the foot of the mountain and we will do the PR 1.1 trek, which is 2.8km long and we will climb 333m above sea level, the journey from the car park to the top will take about 1.15 hours and you can already enjoy the beautiful views on the way, but you will enjoy them more on the way back to the car. :)
+ I recommend sturdy footwear, headlamps and choose clothing suitable for the lower morning temperatures or the wind that can be present at the summit.
There are two options for refreshments on the way down from Pico Ruivo. One is just below the summit and the other is by the parking lot. Which one you want to use for your morning coffee with views I'll leave up to you. :) They also have delicious cakes or savoury food options at the car park.
We can stop on the way down and look at the views the path offers.
We will stop in our town of Santana to see the traditional houses of Madeira. Here we can buy something good to eat at the nearby markets.
The next place is a rocky beach with the ruins of São Jorge. It is a stone gate in a small village. Above the beach there is a small lookout where we can also go to see. Then we move a short distance next door to the Ponta de São Jorge Lighthouse, from where we follow paths and footbridges to the natural pools where we can swim.
In the morning, after breakfast and packing our things, we will go to the parking lot of this Levada. From there we will head to our first Levada where you can enjoy 3 waterfalls, tunnels and if we are lucky, a finch feeding.
The whole Levada to the finish is 6km and follows the same route there and back. So 12km in total. :)
If someone doesn't want to walk the whole Levada, it's not a problem and the length of the journey can be agreed. At the starting point of the route at the car park there is a possibility of refreshment in a very pleasant environment.
After an hour's drive towards our second accommodation, we stop at another glass viewpoint. This time, the glass part is located at a height of half a kilometer and the view from it will be really different than from the previous viewpoint.
The accommodation is located on a hillside overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Accommodation options are either villas or apartments.
On-site there is an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, a wellness centre with sauna and massage, a games room with billiards and table football, tennis court, mini golf, a restaurant with traditional Madeiran cuisine or there is also a fully equipped kitchenette where you can cook to your heart's content.
Breakfast is a buffet and snack bar.
There is also a mini-market on site where you can shop.
In the morning, after breakfast, we will go to Pico Ariero with 1818 m above sea level, from which there is a beautiful view not only of Pico Ruivo. We will explore the surrounding area and other viewpoints. By car we will drive to the bottom of the peak and from here we will have a short climb to the view.
Then we move on to Levada dos Balcões. A very short Levada of 0.6km in length, where at the end of it there is a viewpoint with the possibility of feeding finches.
Another of the most interesting sights in Madeira. It is located at 1095 m above sea level and from this vantage point you have the Valley of the Nuns below in the palm of your hand. The viewpoint can be reached by car and is only 300m from the car park.
Westward we head to the town of Ponta do Sol, to see the pier and the waterfall across the road, which is very popular.
After breakfast in the morning, we head to Fanal, where there are iconic laurel trees and hopefully the fog will clear. It is better to arrive early because of the number of tourists. You can also enjoy the cows moving freely among the trees.
On my visit in December, I caught the beautiful weather and had a Fanal completely free of fog.
Then I'll go back a little bit and we'll go to the 25 falls levada. The levada is 3.7km to the finish line. On the way back, we can turn off at the refreshment area for the second levada with the Lagoa do Vento waterfall. This hike with both levadas is just under 11km.
Again, anyone who doesn't want to walk the whole route has no problem making arrangements. :)
Black sandy beaches and natural pools. A place to relax after a lazy day.
A small town on the coast with other natural pools. If you want, you can try these too and then we will look at the view and the waves if the conditions are good.
We will then slowly make our way along the coast back to our accommodation. From here you will see another amazing waterfall on the island.
A place to enjoy the sunset.
On the last day we will move to the capital. We'll see the waterfront, the oldest market in the city, the alleys in the old part of town with the iconic painted doors. If you want, we can also take a cable car to the botanical garden above the city.
+ There is also a statue and museum of Cristiano Ronaldo, a Madeiran native, on the waterfront in the capital.
+ The cable car ride to the botanical gardens costs €18 round trip/person.
We will agree on the programme for the last day on the spot, depending on what we want to do. After that, it's just a flight. :)
If you want, I will mention in advance that you can bring fruit or flowers on the plane. There is a cut flower shop at the airport, but you won't find a fruit shop there. Beyond the security checkpoint, there are only regular shops. So I would recommend thinking ahead in the case of fruit. :)
