Madeira: Insider Tips & Highlights on the Island of Flowers

When you find yourself in awe of countless viewpoints, encouraged to hike year-round by the mild climate, and accompanied by waterfalls every day, you are exploring Madeira. The Portuguese island delights hiking enthusiasts with its natural wonders. In addition to fantastic restaurants and relaxed beach enjoyment, cultural experiences in the charming villages and towns offer a welcome change. I will share my insider tips and highlights for a diverse vacation.

Nestled between the high cliffs of the southern coast and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean lies Jardim do Mar, arguably the most beautiful village in Madeira. Narrow cobblestone streets wind down from the village center to the sea, and the gardens of traditional houses teem with colorful tropical flowers and banana plants.

A stroll through the picturesque streets takes you past cozy cafes and restaurants. In the evening, locals gather to chat around the village kiosk or at Joe's Bar for a cerveja (beer) and a plate of seafood. Afterward, a walk along the promenade is the perfect way to wind down the day.

Jardim do Mar particularly exudes charm in the morning and evening when day-trippers haven't yet arrived or have already left. Therefore, I recommend choosing this coastal village as a base for exploration and booking a few nights in one of the accommodations.

Narrow pathways wind along the water channels through the dense laurel forest. For centuries, the Levadas have shaped life on the island. They are artificial irrigation canals that transport water from the rain-rich northern parts of the island to the drier regions in the south. Even today, they still serve their purpose.

Numerous hiking trails run alongside these Levadas, leading you through Madeira's unique vegetation. The most popular routes include Levada do Caldeirão Verde and Levada das 25 Fontes. The latter leads to the 25 springs in a rock face, creating an impressive waterfall.

As glorious as the excursions through the stunning landscapes of both hikes are, they can unfortunately be quite crowded - and this is the case in almost every season. For those who prefer a quieter experience, I recommend the Levada dos Cedros, which begins in Fanal on road 209. The 7.2-kilometer trail follows one of the oldest water routes in the region.

The Levada was built in the 17th century. Even older are the impressive tree giants along the paths. Experts estimate their age to be over 800 years in some cases. The laurel forests of Madeira have been shaping the island's flora and fauna for about 20 million years and are part of the UNESCO World Natural Heritage.

Another beautiful tour takes you near the popular Levada do Caldeirão in the district of Santana, through pristine nature. From the Queimadas Forest Park with its thatched Santana houses, the hiking path runs over a relaxed two kilometers, past waterfalls, ferns, and moss-covered rocks as well as mystical trees. As a 'Path for All,' it is suitable for families with strollers and wheelchair users.

I can never get enough of the lush green plant life and the beautiful hiking paths. At the end of the tour, a small abandoned village surprises you with the region's typical triangular thatched-roof houses. The return is along the same path.

What could be more delightful than diving into the refreshing seawater after a hike!? Shaped by the waves of the Atlantic Ocean, you will find several natural pools along Madeira's coastline - a wonderful opportunity to enjoy jumping into the sea in a protected environment.

Two natural pools are located in the coastal town of Porto Moniz. While the Piscinas Naturais Velhas at Cachalote Restaurant appear particularly untouched with their rugged pools formed from volcanic rock, the neighboring pools are especially popular with families due to their good access points via built-in stairs. No matter which natural swimming pool you choose, both offer a stunning contrast of turquoise water against the dark lava rock.

About 10 kilometers east of Porto Moniz, the beach at Porto de Abrigo do Seixal offers another beautiful spot to dive into the water. Surrounded by steep, lush cliffs from which waterfalls cascade down, the protected cove offers a serene atmosphere.

With approximately 250,000 residents, Funchal is the metropolis of Madeira. The old town of Funchal, known as Zona Velha, is a charming labyrinth of cobblestone streets, traditional houses, and picturesque squares. Here, you'll find numerous cozy cafes, local shops, and artisan stores.

Some major attractions in Funchal include the Sé Cathedral, an impressive Gothic church from the early 16th century, the colorful doors on Rua Santa Maria, and the Mercado dos Lavradores. The latter is a vibrant market offering a wealth of fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, and local delicacies.

Another highlight for food enthusiasts can be found along the promenade of Funchal. Every day, except Sundays, a variety of food trucks offer a wide range of delicious foods and drinks.

The Afternoon Tea at Reid's Palace is also very popular. Here, the British tea hour is celebrated in the nostalgic ambiance of the luxury hotel.

When is the best time to visit Madeira?

The best time to visit Madeira depends on your preferences. Generally, the climate in Madeira is mild and pleasant year-round. However, the months of May to September are considered the warmest and driest, making them the most popular times to visit. During this period, you can expect warm, sunny weather, ideal for hiking, sightseeing, and relaxing on the beaches. If you prefer a quieter experience and would like to see the nature in full bloom, consider the months of April and October. These months are often less crowded than the peak season months, but the weather remains very pleasant. For those wanting to spend Christmas in a mild climate, December to February is also a good choice, although it may be a bit rainier during these months.

How do I get around Madeira?

While buses and taxis operate in Madeira, I recommend renting a car for the greatest flexibility. Be prepared for many drives through tunnels due to the mountainous landscape.

What should you definitely do in Madeira?

There are plenty of activities and attractions for vacationers to experience in Madeira. Highlights include Levada hikes, relaxing and swimming on beaches and in natural pools. Moreover, the island is ideal for boat tours to see whales and dolphins and exploring picturesque fishing villages along the coast, such as Câmara de Lobos or Porto Moniz.

Which place in Madeira is the most beautiful?

Some of the most beautiful places and towns in Madeira include Funchal with its charming, winding old town, the picturesque coastal village of Jardim do Mar, and Santana with its traditional thatched houses.

How many days are needed for Madeira?

About five to seven days are enough to get an overview of the island and see some main attractions. However, for a more thorough exploration of the diverse landscapes, hiking along the Levadas, whale watching boat tours, and relaxing on the beaches, about 10 days should be planned.

Is Madeira expensive?

The costs for a vacation in Madeira vary depending on personal preferences, and prices can also differ based on the season and location. In tourist areas such as Funchal, it tends to be more expensive than in more secluded locations.