Top 12 Experiences
- Hike the Royal Trail Pico do Arieiro–Pico Ruivo — Walk above the clouds, through tunnels, over ridges, and between rock towers — the most spectacular hike in Madeira and one of the most beautiful in Europe. → Chap. Levadas & Mountains
- Hike through the laurel forest of Levada do Caldeirão Verde — Moss-covered trees, tunnels with flashlights, waterfalls at the end — this Levada hike leads through a primeval forest that has existed for 20 million years. → Chap. Levadas & Mountains
- Look into the depths at Cabo Girão — 580 meters straight down, through a glass platform: the second-highest sea cliff in Europe is not for the faint-hearted, but the view is overwhelming. → Chap. Funchal
- Try exotic fruits at the Mercado dos Lavradores — Passion fruit, Anona (Cherimoya), Pitanga, Tamarillo — Funchal's market is a tropical color spectacle, and the vendors let you taste everything. → Chap. Funchal
- Swim in the natural pools of Porto Moniz — Natural seawater pools made of black volcanic rock, washed by the Atlantic surf: swimming on the north coast becomes an experience here. → Chap. North
- Drink a Poncha in a bar in Funchal — The Madeiran national drink made from Aguardente (sugar cane brandy), fresh lemon juice, and honey: smooth, strong, and the perfect drink after a day of hiking. → Chap. Funchal
- Experience the sunrise at Pico do Arieiro — Set off at 5 a.m., stand at 1,818 meters, and watch the sun rise over the sea of clouds. One of the most magical moments Europe has to offer. → Chap. Levadas & Mountains
- Sled down from Monte to Funchal in a wicker toboggan — Two Carreiros (toboggan drivers) in white attire steer the rattan sled down the steep road: Madeira's craziest tradition since 1850. → Chap. Funchal
- Visit the straw-roofed houses of Santana — The triangular, thatched Casas de Colmo are Madeira's landmarks and a piece of living island history. → Chap. North
- Taste Madeira wine in a historic cellar — Blandy's or Pereira d'Oliveira: centuries-old wineries in Funchal, where wines mature that are older than your great-grandparents. → Chap. Funchal
- Relax on the golden beach of Porto Santo — 9 kilometers of fine sand, warm sea, and therapeutic mineral content: Porto Santo has the beach that Madeira does not. → Chap. Porto Santo
- Experience the Levada das 25 Fontes with the waterfall finale — Through dense laurel forest to a natural amphitheater with 25 springs and a waterfall: Madeira's most photogenic hike. → Chap. Levadas & Mountains
