Walk the Garden Island of Madeira

Madeira is an island of fascinating natural beauty and enticing climate. Known as the pearl of the Atlantic, it rises steeply along with its small island neighbour in splendid isolation off the coast of Africa. An island of volcanic origin, it is a haven for those seeking a relaxing holiday in close proximity to nature. Bursting with the exotic colours of subtropical flowers and lush laurisilva forests. Gardens and parks are everywhere planted with all manner of exotic trees, shrubs and blooms.

Its mountains are rugged and inspiring, with jagged peaks and plunging valleys filled with lush vegetation. Here you will find the more challenging walking, where dramatic cliff top walks zig zag along paths with the Atlantic lapping below. There is also plenty of easier walking suitable for even the least experienced walker. A network of Levada's contour the mountain sides their banks planted with wild hydrangeas, lilies and agapanthus. Built to carry water from the abundant springs in the north to the cultivated areas of the south. These irrigation channels provide gentle walks through the wilds, allowing you to explore some of the dramatic mountainscapes at the heart of the island. Stroll alongside the constant stream of bubbling water with ever-changing views of deep valleys and hillsides often with splendid sea views in the background.

The historic and beautiful town of Funchal, set in a natural amphitheatre by the sea in the south of the island, is an ideal location for your walking holiday in Madeira. It has a lively commercial centre with contrasting quiet pedestrianised streets and pretty squares (many painstakingly restored with mosaic-like miniature cobblestones) and an abundance of parks and gardens. The Old Town is atmospheric with its street flower-sellers, narrow streets and period buildings. Its vibrant restaurants specialise in delicious fresh seafood and very many have folk groups and dancing. A cable car will take you quickly up to Monte where you can enjoy magnificent panoramic views over Funchal. A visit to the Monte Palace Tropical Gardens is a must, with the option of returning by wicker basket!

Terrain

The paths are generally of good quality, with some uneven sections and tunnels. Some walks, particularly those which follow the levadas, do require a head for heights and may not be suitable for vertigo sufferers. The description of each walk will indicate if it has vertiginous sections.