Madeira is calling! Also known as the Hawaii of the Atlantic, this island truly lives up to its name. Bizarre volcanic landscapes and untamed nature meet rugged cliffs and green coastlines. The perfect spot for plenty of wild adventures! Watch the mist drift between mountain peaks, listen to the crashing waves on Europe's highest cliffs, and dive into the wild waves of the Atlantic. Adventurous mountain hikes, whale watching on the open sea, and relaxing on the golden beach of the mysterious neighboring island of Porto Santo—it all awaits you! Your nights will be special too—for instance, in your accommodation with lava pools right by the sea. The adventure can begin—what are you waiting for?
The moment has come – your dream of an adventure in Madeira is starting to turn into reality. After landing over the island's green volcanic landscape, the first kilometers await you on winding roads with views of the Atlantic. After picking up the car, head north of the island to the Porto Moniz area, where the dramatic coastline meets the wild power of the ocean.
Madeira does not offer classic sandy beaches, but here you will discover one of its greatest natural attractions – lava pools created by volcanic activity. Natural swimming pools filled with sea water are tempting for a refreshing swim on the first day and are an ideal place to be absorbed in the atmosphere of the island and enjoy the Atlantic up close for the first time. If you arrive late or are tired, head straight to your accommodation.
Following the instructions you received before your flight, pick up your rental car at the airport and head off to explore Madeira.
⚠️IMPORTANT: For most trails marked with PR, you need to book your entry IN ADVANCE. The most popular trails often sell out well ahead of time, so be sure to purchase and book as soon as possible. Entry is not possible without a reservation. You can find all information about open/closed levadas and their current status on the official websites, which I recommend following: Visitmadeira and Timesofmadeira. Also, keep an eye on this webcam link to see the current weather on-site.
If you have enough time and energy after arrival, you can head here – to the northwest of Madeira, where the famous natural lava pools are located right by the ocean. Porto Moniz is an ideal place for a first brief acquaintance with the wild face of the island and a refreshing dip in the Atlantic. However, if you prefer to rest after the journey, feel free to skip this stop, go straight to your accommodation, and leave exploring Madeira for the next day.
The morning in São Vicente is for exploring. Take a rented car along the north coast to the west and park at a restaurant, from where you continue on foot along the former ER101 road, now closed to cars and transformed into an impressive hiking trail. The route leads through tunnels, over small bridges, and just above the roaring Atlantic.
After returning to the car, continue further west for refreshment. Take a dip in the Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools or on the black beach in Seixal. Then head back towards your accommodation.
São Vicente is a picturesque town on the north coast of Madeira, surrounded by dramatic nature and mountains that stretch from the Atlantic Ocean deep into the island. In the surrounding area, you'll find hiking trails, green valleys, and beautiful coastal views, and if you're into surfing, the local beach is popular among surfers for its good waves. The town itself also has a historic center with traditional architecture and a pleasant atmosphere for a short walk or coffee.
The lava pools - Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools are one of the most famous attractions in the northwest of Madeira. Natural lava pools with sea water, which create a safe and photogenic place for swimming and relaxation right by the ocean. There is usually a small entrance fee to enter the main area (approx. €1.50–€3 per adult) and it is usually open from 9:00 to 19:00 in summer and 9:00 to 17:00 in winter. Changing rooms and other basic facilities are available, but it can get quite crowded in good weather, so it's a good idea to arrive earlier in the day.
We're hitting the road! With sunglasses on and the steering wheel in hand, you'll enjoy the drive across the island. Want to forget about everything for a while? Stop at the São Vicente Caves (optional, paid on site). In the distant past, volcanic eruptions created a network of underground tunnels and caves that will captivate you with their narrow passages and incredible formations. The tour takes you to a mysterious crystal lagoon surrounded by illuminated volcanic rocks. After the tour, we continue on.
Once you arrive at your accommodation, everything happens quickly: check-in, luggage drop-off, swimsuits on, and we're out! Madeira is not known for white sandy beaches, but it offers something truly unique – lava pools. This island, which was formed by volcanic activity, is home to several natural pools carved into the lava rocks right in the Atlantic. And the best part? One of the most beautiful is located right by your hotel – just dive into the refreshing water!
From the bed straight into the lava pool - does it tempt you? But you didn't come to Madeira just to relax! You put on your hiking boots, pack a few supplies and get back behind the wheel of your car. Your journey will take you to the start of the PR6 hiking trail, which will lead you to the famous 25 Fontes area. You'll wander along historic stone water channels, levadas, through wild laurel forests and rocky areas. Twisted trees ripple around you and water runs down the rock walls - nature has created something truly magical here. During your stop at Risco Waterfall, you can enjoy the sight of water falling from over 100 metres before you reach your destination. At Levada das 25 Fontes, the water flows in several small waterfalls down a steep rock face and eventually stops in a turquoise lagoon. Every step of this journey was worth the amazing view!
You won't be looking for accommodation just yet, but you'll be heading in your car towards Cabo Girão. Here is one of the highest sea cliffs in the world, rising almost perpendicularly out of the Atlantic to a height of 580 metres. If you're not dizzy, you can even take a look at the depths from the local Skywalk lookout - goosebumps guaranteed (optional, pay on site)! From the roaring surf, you'll head to the nearby fishing village of Câmara de Lobos for dinner. How about sampling local specialties like Espada Preta or Bife de Atum?
Happy and satisfied, you'll eventually make your way towards your accommodation in Ponta do Sol. You'll end the evening watching the sun set over the Atlantic with a glass of Madeira wine in hand - this is what a perfect holiday looks like!
Câmara de Lobos
Get ready for an exciting adventure! Today we are going out to sea on a catamaran, because the coast of Madeira is not only home to whales and dolphins, but also turtles and many species of seabirds. Moments after setting sail, you'll see the back of a black whale peeking out at the surface of the sea! Quickly find a spot on the net to watch the commotion below. This is definitely an experience that is better than a movie! And what about the dolphins that gracefully hover over the water? This is definitely an experience on your bucket list! Afterwards, the catamaran heads to the Cabo Girão cliffs, which show their amazing beauty when viewed from the sea. At the foot of the reef, take a swim in the Atlantic before heading back to Funchal. This day is just beginning, but you already know you'll remember it for a long time!
Madeira is calling! Also known as the Hawaii of the Atlantic, this island truly lives up to its name. Bizarre volcanic landscapes and untamed nature meet rugged cliffs and green coastlines. The perfect spot for plenty of wild adventures! Watch the mist drift between mountain peaks, listen to the crashing waves on Europe's highest cliffs, and dive into the wild waves of the Atlantic. Adventurous mountain hikes, whale watching on the open sea, and relaxing on the golden beach of the mysterious neighboring island of Porto Santo—it all awaits you! Your nights will be special too—for instance, in your accommodation with lava pools right by the sea. The adventure can begin—what are you waiting for?
The moment has come – your dream of an adventure in Madeira is starting to turn into reality. After landing over the island's green volcanic landscape, the first kilometers await you on winding roads with views of the Atlantic. After picking up the car, head north of the island to the Porto Moniz area, where the dramatic coastline meets the wild power of the ocean.
Madeira does not offer classic sandy beaches, but here you will discover one of its greatest natural attractions – lava pools created by volcanic activity. Natural swimming pools filled with sea water are tempting for a refreshing swim on the first day and are an ideal place to be absorbed in the atmosphere of the island and enjoy the Atlantic up close for the first time. If you arrive late or are tired, head straight to your accommodation.
Following the instructions you received before your flight, pick up your rental car at the airport and head off to explore Madeira.
⚠️IMPORTANT: For most trails marked with PR, you need to book your entry IN ADVANCE. The most popular trails often sell out well ahead of time, so be sure to purchase and book as soon as possible. Entry is not possible without a reservation. You can find all information about open/closed levadas and their current status on the official websites, which I recommend following: Visitmadeira and Timesofmadeira. Also, keep an eye on this webcam link to see the current weather on-site.
If you have enough time and energy after arrival, you can head here – to the northwest of Madeira, where the famous natural lava pools are located right by the ocean. Porto Moniz is an ideal place for a first brief acquaintance with the wild face of the island and a refreshing dip in the Atlantic. However, if you prefer to rest after the journey, feel free to skip this stop, go straight to your accommodation, and leave exploring Madeira for the next day.
The morning in São Vicente is for exploring. Take a rented car along the north coast to the west and park at a restaurant, from where you continue on foot along the former ER101 road, now closed to cars and transformed into an impressive hiking trail. The route leads through tunnels, over small bridges, and just above the roaring Atlantic.
After returning to the car, continue further west for refreshment. Take a dip in the Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools or on the black beach in Seixal. Then head back towards your accommodation.
São Vicente is a picturesque town on the north coast of Madeira, surrounded by dramatic nature and mountains that stretch from the Atlantic Ocean deep into the island. In the surrounding area, you'll find hiking trails, green valleys, and beautiful coastal views, and if you're into surfing, the local beach is popular among surfers for its good waves. The town itself also has a historic center with traditional architecture and a pleasant atmosphere for a short walk or coffee.
The lava pools - Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools are one of the most famous attractions in the northwest of Madeira. Natural lava pools with sea water, which create a safe and photogenic place for swimming and relaxation right by the ocean. There is usually a small entrance fee to enter the main area (approx. €1.50–€3 per adult) and it is usually open from 9:00 to 19:00 in summer and 9:00 to 17:00 in winter. Changing rooms and other basic facilities are available, but it can get quite crowded in good weather, so it's a good idea to arrive earlier in the day.
We're hitting the road! With sunglasses on and the steering wheel in hand, you'll enjoy the drive across the island. Want to forget about everything for a while? Stop at the São Vicente Caves (optional, paid on site). In the distant past, volcanic eruptions created a network of underground tunnels and caves that will captivate you with their narrow passages and incredible formations. The tour takes you to a mysterious crystal lagoon surrounded by illuminated volcanic rocks. After the tour, we continue on.
Once you arrive at your accommodation, everything happens quickly: check-in, luggage drop-off, swimsuits on, and we're out! Madeira is not known for white sandy beaches, but it offers something truly unique – lava pools. This island, which was formed by volcanic activity, is home to several natural pools carved into the lava rocks right in the Atlantic. And the best part? One of the most beautiful is located right by your hotel – just dive into the refreshing water!
From the bed straight into the lava pool - does it tempt you? But you didn't come to Madeira just to relax! You put on your hiking boots, pack a few supplies and get back behind the wheel of your car. Your journey will take you to the start of the PR6 hiking trail, which will lead you to the famous 25 Fontes area. You'll wander along historic stone water channels, levadas, through wild laurel forests and rocky areas. Twisted trees ripple around you and water runs down the rock walls - nature has created something truly magical here. During your stop at Risco Waterfall, you can enjoy the sight of water falling from over 100 metres before you reach your destination. At Levada das 25 Fontes, the water flows in several small waterfalls down a steep rock face and eventually stops in a turquoise lagoon. Every step of this journey was worth the amazing view!
You won't be looking for accommodation just yet, but you'll be heading in your car towards Cabo Girão. Here is one of the highest sea cliffs in the world, rising almost perpendicularly out of the Atlantic to a height of 580 metres. If you're not dizzy, you can even take a look at the depths from the local Skywalk lookout - goosebumps guaranteed (optional, pay on site)! From the roaring surf, you'll head to the nearby fishing village of Câmara de Lobos for dinner. How about sampling local specialties like Espada Preta or Bife de Atum?
Happy and satisfied, you'll eventually make your way towards your accommodation in Ponta do Sol. You'll end the evening watching the sun set over the Atlantic with a glass of Madeira wine in hand - this is what a perfect holiday looks like!
Câmara de Lobos
Get ready for an exciting adventure! Today we are going out to sea on a catamaran, because the coast of Madeira is not only home to whales and dolphins, but also turtles and many species of seabirds. Moments after setting sail, you'll see the back of a black whale peeking out at the surface of the sea! Quickly find a spot on the net to watch the commotion below. This is definitely an experience that is better than a movie! And what about the dolphins that gracefully hover over the water? This is definitely an experience on your bucket list! Afterwards, the catamaran heads to the Cabo Girão cliffs, which show their amazing beauty when viewed from the sea. At the foot of the reef, take a swim in the Atlantic before heading back to Funchal. This day is just beginning, but you already know you'll remember it for a long time!
itinerary by Jack
Madeira is calling! Also known as the Hawaii of the Atlantic, this island truly lives up to its name. Bizarre volcanic landscapes and untamed nature meet rugged cliffs and green coastlines. The perfect spot for plenty of wild adventures! Watch the mist drift between mountain peaks, listen to the crashing waves on Europe's highest cliffs, and dive into the wild waves of the Atlantic. Adventurous mountain hikes, whale watching on the open sea, and relaxing on the golden beach of the mysterious neighboring island of Porto Santo—it all awaits you! Your nights will be special too—for instance, in your accommodation with lava pools right by the sea. The adventure can begin—what are you waiting for?
The moment has come – your dream of an adventure in Madeira is starting to turn into reality. After landing over the island's green volcanic landscape, the first kilometers await you on winding roads with views of the Atlantic. After picking up the car, head north of the island to the Porto Moniz area, where the dramatic coastline meets the wild power of the ocean.
Madeira does not offer classic sandy beaches, but here you will discover one of its greatest natural attractions – lava pools created by volcanic activity. Natural swimming pools filled with sea water are tempting for a refreshing swim on the first day and are an ideal place to be absorbed in the atmosphere of the island and enjoy the Atlantic up close for the first time. If you arrive late or are tired, head straight to your accommodation.
Following the instructions you received before your flight, pick up your rental car at the airport and head off to explore Madeira.
⚠️IMPORTANT: For most trails marked with PR, you need to book your entry IN ADVANCE. The most popular trails often sell out well ahead of time, so be sure to purchase and book as soon as possible. Entry is not possible without a reservation. You can find all information about open/closed levadas and their current status on the official websites, which I recommend following: Visitmadeira and Timesofmadeira. Also, keep an eye on this webcam link to see the current weather on-site.
If you have enough time and energy after arrival, you can head here – to the northwest of Madeira, where the famous natural lava pools are located right by the ocean. Porto Moniz is an ideal place for a first brief acquaintance with the wild face of the island and a refreshing dip in the Atlantic. However, if you prefer to rest after the journey, feel free to skip this stop, go straight to your accommodation, and leave exploring Madeira for the next day.
The morning in São Vicente is for exploring. Take a rented car along the north coast to the west and park at a restaurant, from where you continue on foot along the former ER101 road, now closed to cars and transformed into an impressive hiking trail. The route leads through tunnels, over small bridges, and just above the roaring Atlantic.
After returning to the car, continue further west for refreshment. Take a dip in the Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools or on the black beach in Seixal. Then head back towards your accommodation.
São Vicente is a picturesque town on the north coast of Madeira, surrounded by dramatic nature and mountains that stretch from the Atlantic Ocean deep into the island. In the surrounding area, you'll find hiking trails, green valleys, and beautiful coastal views, and if you're into surfing, the local beach is popular among surfers for its good waves. The town itself also has a historic center with traditional architecture and a pleasant atmosphere for a short walk or coffee.
The lava pools - Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools are one of the most famous attractions in the northwest of Madeira. Natural lava pools with sea water, which create a safe and photogenic place for swimming and relaxation right by the ocean. There is usually a small entrance fee to enter the main area (approx. €1.50–€3 per adult) and it is usually open from 9:00 to 19:00 in summer and 9:00 to 17:00 in winter. Changing rooms and other basic facilities are available, but it can get quite crowded in good weather, so it's a good idea to arrive earlier in the day.
We're hitting the road! With sunglasses on and the steering wheel in hand, you'll enjoy the drive across the island. Want to forget about everything for a while? Stop at the São Vicente Caves (optional, paid on site). In the distant past, volcanic eruptions created a network of underground tunnels and caves that will captivate you with their narrow passages and incredible formations. The tour takes you to a mysterious crystal lagoon surrounded by illuminated volcanic rocks. After the tour, we continue on.
Once you arrive at your accommodation, everything happens quickly: check-in, luggage drop-off, swimsuits on, and we're out! Madeira is not known for white sandy beaches, but it offers something truly unique – lava pools. This island, which was formed by volcanic activity, is home to several natural pools carved into the lava rocks right in the Atlantic. And the best part? One of the most beautiful is located right by your hotel – just dive into the refreshing water!
From the bed straight into the lava pool - does it tempt you? But you didn't come to Madeira just to relax! You put on your hiking boots, pack a few supplies and get back behind the wheel of your car. Your journey will take you to the start of the PR6 hiking trail, which will lead you to the famous 25 Fontes area. You'll wander along historic stone water channels, levadas, through wild laurel forests and rocky areas. Twisted trees ripple around you and water runs down the rock walls - nature has created something truly magical here. During your stop at Risco Waterfall, you can enjoy the sight of water falling from over 100 metres before you reach your destination. At Levada das 25 Fontes, the water flows in several small waterfalls down a steep rock face and eventually stops in a turquoise lagoon. Every step of this journey was worth the amazing view!
You won't be looking for accommodation just yet, but you'll be heading in your car towards Cabo Girão. Here is one of the highest sea cliffs in the world, rising almost perpendicularly out of the Atlantic to a height of 580 metres. If you're not dizzy, you can even take a look at the depths from the local Skywalk lookout - goosebumps guaranteed (optional, pay on site)! From the roaring surf, you'll head to the nearby fishing village of Câmara de Lobos for dinner. How about sampling local specialties like Espada Preta or Bife de Atum?
Happy and satisfied, you'll eventually make your way towards your accommodation in Ponta do Sol. You'll end the evening watching the sun set over the Atlantic with a glass of Madeira wine in hand - this is what a perfect holiday looks like!
Câmara de Lobos
Get ready for an exciting adventure! Today we are going out to sea on a catamaran, because the coast of Madeira is not only home to whales and dolphins, but also turtles and many species of seabirds. Moments after setting sail, you'll see the back of a black whale peeking out at the surface of the sea! Quickly find a spot on the net to watch the commotion below. This is definitely an experience that is better than a movie! And what about the dolphins that gracefully hover over the water? This is definitely an experience on your bucket list! Afterwards, the catamaran heads to the Cabo Girão cliffs, which show their amazing beauty when viewed from the sea. At the foot of the reef, take a swim in the Atlantic before heading back to Funchal. This day is just beginning, but you already know you'll remember it for a long time!
Madeira is calling! Also known as the Hawaii of the Atlantic, this island truly lives up to its name. Bizarre volcanic landscapes and untamed nature meet rugged cliffs and green coastlines. The perfect spot for plenty of wild adventures! Watch the mist drift between mountain peaks, listen to the crashing waves on Europe's highest cliffs, and dive into the wild waves of the Atlantic. Adventurous mountain hikes, whale watching on the open sea, and relaxing on the golden beach of the mysterious neighboring island of Porto Santo—it all awaits you! Your nights will be special too—for instance, in your accommodation with lava pools right by the sea. The adventure can begin—what are you waiting for?
The moment has come – your dream of an adventure in Madeira is starting to turn into reality. After landing over the island's green volcanic landscape, the first kilometers await you on winding roads with views of the Atlantic. After picking up the car, head north of the island to the Porto Moniz area, where the dramatic coastline meets the wild power of the ocean.
Madeira does not offer classic sandy beaches, but here you will discover one of its greatest natural attractions – lava pools created by volcanic activity. Natural swimming pools filled with sea water are tempting for a refreshing swim on the first day and are an ideal place to be absorbed in the atmosphere of the island and enjoy the Atlantic up close for the first time. If you arrive late or are tired, head straight to your accommodation.
Following the instructions you received before your flight, pick up your rental car at the airport and head off to explore Madeira.
⚠️IMPORTANT: For most trails marked with PR, you need to book your entry IN ADVANCE. The most popular trails often sell out well ahead of time, so be sure to purchase and book as soon as possible. Entry is not possible without a reservation. You can find all information about open/closed levadas and their current status on the official websites, which I recommend following: Visitmadeira and Timesofmadeira. Also, keep an eye on this webcam link to see the current weather on-site.
If you have enough time and energy after arrival, you can head here – to the northwest of Madeira, where the famous natural lava pools are located right by the ocean. Porto Moniz is an ideal place for a first brief acquaintance with the wild face of the island and a refreshing dip in the Atlantic. However, if you prefer to rest after the journey, feel free to skip this stop, go straight to your accommodation, and leave exploring Madeira for the next day.
The morning in São Vicente is for exploring. Take a rented car along the north coast to the west and park at a restaurant, from where you continue on foot along the former ER101 road, now closed to cars and transformed into an impressive hiking trail. The route leads through tunnels, over small bridges, and just above the roaring Atlantic.
After returning to the car, continue further west for refreshment. Take a dip in the Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools or on the black beach in Seixal. Then head back towards your accommodation.
São Vicente is a picturesque town on the north coast of Madeira, surrounded by dramatic nature and mountains that stretch from the Atlantic Ocean deep into the island. In the surrounding area, you'll find hiking trails, green valleys, and beautiful coastal views, and if you're into surfing, the local beach is popular among surfers for its good waves. The town itself also has a historic center with traditional architecture and a pleasant atmosphere for a short walk or coffee.
The lava pools - Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools are one of the most famous attractions in the northwest of Madeira. Natural lava pools with sea water, which create a safe and photogenic place for swimming and relaxation right by the ocean. There is usually a small entrance fee to enter the main area (approx. €1.50–€3 per adult) and it is usually open from 9:00 to 19:00 in summer and 9:00 to 17:00 in winter. Changing rooms and other basic facilities are available, but it can get quite crowded in good weather, so it's a good idea to arrive earlier in the day.
We're hitting the road! With sunglasses on and the steering wheel in hand, you'll enjoy the drive across the island. Want to forget about everything for a while? Stop at the São Vicente Caves (optional, paid on site). In the distant past, volcanic eruptions created a network of underground tunnels and caves that will captivate you with their narrow passages and incredible formations. The tour takes you to a mysterious crystal lagoon surrounded by illuminated volcanic rocks. After the tour, we continue on.
Once you arrive at your accommodation, everything happens quickly: check-in, luggage drop-off, swimsuits on, and we're out! Madeira is not known for white sandy beaches, but it offers something truly unique – lava pools. This island, which was formed by volcanic activity, is home to several natural pools carved into the lava rocks right in the Atlantic. And the best part? One of the most beautiful is located right by your hotel – just dive into the refreshing water!
From the bed straight into the lava pool - does it tempt you? But you didn't come to Madeira just to relax! You put on your hiking boots, pack a few supplies and get back behind the wheel of your car. Your journey will take you to the start of the PR6 hiking trail, which will lead you to the famous 25 Fontes area. You'll wander along historic stone water channels, levadas, through wild laurel forests and rocky areas. Twisted trees ripple around you and water runs down the rock walls - nature has created something truly magical here. During your stop at Risco Waterfall, you can enjoy the sight of water falling from over 100 metres before you reach your destination. At Levada das 25 Fontes, the water flows in several small waterfalls down a steep rock face and eventually stops in a turquoise lagoon. Every step of this journey was worth the amazing view!
You won't be looking for accommodation just yet, but you'll be heading in your car towards Cabo Girão. Here is one of the highest sea cliffs in the world, rising almost perpendicularly out of the Atlantic to a height of 580 metres. If you're not dizzy, you can even take a look at the depths from the local Skywalk lookout - goosebumps guaranteed (optional, pay on site)! From the roaring surf, you'll head to the nearby fishing village of Câmara de Lobos for dinner. How about sampling local specialties like Espada Preta or Bife de Atum?
Happy and satisfied, you'll eventually make your way towards your accommodation in Ponta do Sol. You'll end the evening watching the sun set over the Atlantic with a glass of Madeira wine in hand - this is what a perfect holiday looks like!
Câmara de Lobos
Get ready for an exciting adventure! Today we are going out to sea on a catamaran, because the coast of Madeira is not only home to whales and dolphins, but also turtles and many species of seabirds. Moments after setting sail, you'll see the back of a black whale peeking out at the surface of the sea! Quickly find a spot on the net to watch the commotion below. This is definitely an experience that is better than a movie! And what about the dolphins that gracefully hover over the water? This is definitely an experience on your bucket list! Afterwards, the catamaran heads to the Cabo Girão cliffs, which show their amazing beauty when viewed from the sea. At the foot of the reef, take a swim in the Atlantic before heading back to Funchal. This day is just beginning, but you already know you'll remember it for a long time!
