Madeira had a recent surge in popularity, from its craggy cliffs, to black sand beaches and lush jungle walks, and for a small island it really does pack a punch!

So where is this incredible island?

Madeira is a Portuguese island, the largest and most populated of the Madeira Archipelago located south of Portugal. The main language is Portuguese but English is also widely spoken! The island is actually the top of a submerged volcano (which explains its rugged landscapes)

What to do on Madeira?

The main attraction for Madeira is the year round warmth (seriously! Ideal for winter sun) incredible black sand beaches and stunning hiking and walking. There is literally something for everyone on Madeira.

 

My top suggestions for Madeira

 

The Pico Do Arieiro sunrise (or sunset) hike is an absolute must 

In fact I did this hike 2 or 3 times, both at sunrise and sunset as it was just so stunning. The paths are carved under huge craggy cliffs, stairs climb up the sides of huge drops (admittedly not one for those who struggle with heights) look out platforms with views of the clouds flowing over the mountain peaks. Pick Do Arieiro really does need to be seen to be believed. It’s the best spot on the island if you’re keen to see an inversion (when the clouds sink lower than the horizon). It is only a one way route though, so heading down flights and flights of stairs seems awesome- but remember you have to head back up after!

There are new views to be had at every turn, which makes it an incredible location for lots of different sights 

 

Madeira Levada walks! 

First of all, what are Levadas? Put simply, they are channels of water originally created to transport water from the north of the island! Often found inlaid into hiking routes they are the surest way to find long uphill routes through Madeiras lush jungles. No trip to Madeira is complete without a Levada walk. My favourite is Levada do Caldeirao Verde, not too taxing and absolutely covered with jungle like vegetation. It is an usual hike, with 5 separate tunnels to negotiate (watch your head- the tunnels are low and dark so a torch (phone or otherwise) is necessary!

Coming across this vast and stunning waterfall is absolutely beautiful and gives some real jurassic park vibes! Parque Florestal de Quiemadas -(only a 45min drive from Funchal)

Only access is from Santana on the North shore. The last 2.5km are on a single lane road with passing places to be able to cross path with other vehicles. Large carpark for a fee (max 3euros for a day)

 

 

Visit Madeiras ‘cloud forest’.

For some eerily beautiful and truly unique images you have to visit the ‘cloud forest’ in madeira.

For some eerily beautiful and truly unique images you have to visit the ‘cloud forest’ in madeira. Actually called Fanal Forest, it earned its nickname as it seems to permanently be under a blanket of fog. The forest itself is actually a UNESCO world heritage site, called a Laurisilva forest it once blanketed much of southern Europe with only a few areas left- the largest being here in Europe

The Fanal forest is located at the mountain plateau Paul da Serra in the north-west part of Madeira around 10 km east of the town Ribeira Da Janela. If you are driving from Funchal the trip is 50 km long and takes around one and half hour. The only way to get here is by car and you can park at the small parking lot right here.

Images courtesy of Hayley

 

Walk Madeiras coastal hike- Ponta de Sao Louranço

After a few days on this stunning Island exploring forests, mountain peaks and waterfalls you may be after a coastal blast, and Madeira’s rugged coastline is just begging to be explored, from black sand beaches to towering cliffs and vast swells, no wonder Madeira has been likened to a European Hawaii.

A one way hike along to the end of the Island, this hike is the best if rugged cliffs and dramatic ocean scenes are what you are after! The first part of the (long) hike is the most scenic and dramatic so if you are on a deadline or racing for sunrise/sunset stick to the earlier part of the trail! As with many of Madeiras hikes, this is a one way route, which is worth remembering for compositions 

 

 

The Cascata dos Anjos

The waterfall of angels is one of the most unique locations on Madeira, and a must for a drive by, (literally) water from the Levada cascades over the roadside cliffs, onto the road before streaming into the ocean crashing below. Time your visit well and the evening light streams through the water creating a truly magical scene. Extra points for a classic car!

The waterfall is about 30 minutes drive west of Madeira’s capital, on the E.R.101 road.

(Image source unknown)

Image courtesy of Hayley

 

There are endless photo and adventure opportunities on Madeira, you wont be stuck for things to do, just make sure you have your fill of Portugese custard tarts!

For more European adventure ideas check out my other posts here