Walking the Waterways and villages of Madeira

Walking information

This holiday uses paths by the levadas which are, at times, narrow with drops to the side. You need to be a confident, sure-footed walker and if you do struggle with vertigo, you may find this challenging. There are ascents and descents every day which make this a slightly more demanding holiday than the distances suggest. We would recommend walking poles and carrying a torch.

Day 1: Arrive in Madeira

Arrival in Madeira and pick up your hire car before driving to your hotel (approx 45 mins).Below is a suggested itinerary for the week, however, as you have your own hire car and you are staying at the same hotel all week, this holiday offers complete flexibility and you are free to pick and choose when and where you walk each day.
You stay at Bio Hotel Quinta da Serra (dinner included)

Day 2: Pico Grande (10km/6.2mi)

Start your walking from a height of 1200m to the Pico Grande; one of the highest peaks of the Island with stunning views over Nun's Valley, Ribeira Brava and Pico Ruivo. The climb to the top of Pico Grande is challenging but very worthwhile especially on sunny and clear days. Walking poles are recommended for this walk.
You stay at Bio Hotel Quinta da Serra (Breakfast included)

Day 3: Lakes of Madeira (15km/9.3mi)

Walk alongside the Levada do Alecrim enjoying fantastic views over the Rabacal valley. You walk past 3 waterfalls, the most impressive being the second one; Lagoa do Vento. After passing the waterfalls you make your way back, there is a shelter house in Rabacal where you can enjoy a drink and a snack before taking the shuttle bus (3€ payable locally) to return to the car park.
You stay at Bio Hotel Quinta da Serra (Breakfast included)

Day 4: Paul do Mar (20km/12.4mi)

This circular walk takes you to one of the most beautiful villages of the island, Paul do Mar. An impressive walk, if a little steep in the first part until sea level. Stop in the centre of the village for a break before passing through the countryside to Faja da Ovelha where you'll follow the levada back to Prazeres.
You stay at Bio Hotel Quinta da Serra (Breakfast included)

Day 5: Free Day

Spend a day exploring at leisure in the capital, Funchal. Explore the historic centre with its Gothic cathedral built in the 16th century, the collegiate church with impressive gilt work and soak in the atmosphere. Sample the local flavours in the bustling farmers market with exotic fruits and the traditional honey cake and don't forget to visit Funchals most colourful street, the Rua de Santa Maria where the doors have been brightly painted with murals. There's a myriad of places to enjoy a perfect lunch down by the harbour.
You stay at Bio Hotel Quinta da Serra (Breakfast included)

Day 6: Machico area (18km/11.2mi)

This walk takes you into the hills of Machico which was the first capital of the island. After the walk through the mountains you will be rewarded with superb views over the North coast and the enchanting Risco view point. Climb in the direction of Pico Castanho, heading towards the fishing village of Canical with super views over Ponta de Sao Lourenco. Take the levada back to your car.
You stay at Bio Hotel Quinta da Serra (Breakfast included)

Day 7: Lombada and the levada Nova (9km/5.6mi)

Starting at the church in the village of Lombada there are excellent vistas today with panoramic views of the valley and the beautiful village of Ponta do Sol. Following the Levada do Moinho you will climb the path that leads to Levada Nova where you'll reach its impressive waterfall before arriving back in Lombada.
You stay at Bio Hotel Quinta da Serra (Breakfast included)

Day 8: Leave Madeira

Leave hotel and return your hire car back to the airport.
Breakfast Included