The best walks in Madeira

If you're like us, you want to see more and do more on your holiday. These guided walks and excursions are your ticket to discovering the best of Madeira, one step at a time. 

Afternoon tea? You’ve earned it. A slice of Madeira cake (maybe even three) never tasted so good.

A glass of wine? Essential. Especially when it’s local, sweet, and sipped as the sun goes down.

That’s the beauty of walking in Madeira. Each trail offers something different - coastal views, lush levadas, and quiet villages worth exploring. 

We’ve rounded up the best Madeira walks and excursions to help you experience the island at its finest.

Footloose in Madeira? Walk this way

Guided walks in Madeira

All our Madeira holidays include guided walks which can be added on at the time of booking. This means you can explore the island in the very capable hands of a professional and passionate local guide.

We advise you to wear suitable shoes with good grip, wear appropriate clothing (leave the denim at home), and bring your sun cream because a happy walker is sun-kissed and not sunburnt.

You’ll also need:

• Sun glasses
• A rain jacket
• A warmer layer
• A rucksack
• At least a litre of water
• A snack (we never forget those)

Here are some of the walks you can do with us...

Caldeirão Verde Walk

Grade: Moderate Distance:13km

Duration: Approx 8 hours (walking time approx. 4 hours, 30 minutes)

Ascent/descent: 100m ascent and descent

Terrain: Mostly level, uneven in a few places

Come along with us on this full day walk where you’ll be treated to breath-taking sights. Along the way you’ll encounter a waterfall, catch wonderful views of the charming village of São Jorge, and see a beautiful variety of plant species and fauna.

Halfway through this walk, you’ll be taken to a Levada located in the Laurisilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1999. You’ll need a torch for this part, as along the way you’ll go through some tunnels - Indiana Jones khaki trousers and fedora are optional however.

The walk finishes at Caldeirão Verde where you can set your sights on a stunning cascading waterfall. You’ll want your camera (or phone) at the ready.

Paradise Valley walk with an afternoon tea

Grade: Easy

Distance: 5km

Duration: Approx 4 hours (walking time approx 2 hours)

Ascent/descent: Walking path is on a low level

Terrain: Mostly level but can be uneven in some places

On this easy walk you’ll be treated to marvelous views of the mountains and sea while strolling along a charming levada. As you make your way to the rock valley, you’ll get to see a wide range of wildflowers and incredible landscapes.

The final stop will be at the cosy local tea house, where you’ll not only have the chance to soak up the picturesque views and explore their herb garden, but also indulge in a delicious afternoon tea. Take your pick from sweet potato bread, scones, cakes and fruit of the season.

Madeira walking excursions

If you’re looking to add an extra spring in your step then our Madeira walking excursions are just the ticket to uncovering more of the Island’s natural gems.

Like our guided walks, these can be added on at the time of booking your holiday, but come at an additional cost. If you want to see more and do more on your Madeira holiday, then our excursions are the perfect choice for you.

Maroços and Mimosa Valley walk

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 5km

Walking Duration: 2 hours

Departs: Wednesday Morning

Take a serene stroll through the enchanting Mimoa Valley, where you’ll trace the path of a time-honoured 16th century irrigation system known as a Levada.

No visit to Madeira is complete without walking one of its famous Levada trails and on this excursion, you’ll be treated to a rich display of the island's beautiful flora and fauna.

Ribeiro Frio National Park

Difficult: Easy to Moderate

Distance: 11km Walking

Duration: 4 hours

Departs: Monday and Friday

Prepare for an action-packed day on this excursion to the wild wonders of Ribeiro Frio National Park.

It’s a beautiful place set in a deep valley surrounded by mountains and is home to Maderia’s UNESCO protected Laurel Forest. Enjoy the peace and quiet, check out the beautiful waterfalls, and capture once-in-a-lifetime views.

Rabaça and The 25 Fontes

Difficult: Moderate

Distance: 11km

Walking Duration: 4 hours

Departs: Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday

Step into one of Madeira’s hottest walking spots - it’s a date with nature you won’t want to miss.

The trails from Rabaça take you through dense green vegetation and into the impressive Calheta mountains. There’s a stunning waterfall walkway on route (hold on to your hats) and you’ll get to discover the Levada, Lagoa das 25 Fontes.

Santa Cruz walk

Grade: Easy

Distance: 2km

Duration: Half day, 4 hours (walking time 1 / 1.5 hour)

Get ready to explore the picturesque town of Santa Cruz. It’s one of the oldest settlements on the island and is brimming with culture and history.

This guided walk will take you on a journey from the ocean’s edge to the mountain top, where you’ll encounter lots of history, nature and local cuisine.

Starting with a leisurely stroll along the beautiful promenade, you’ll get to visit beautiful gardens, explore the quaint market, and step into a 16th century church.

A short 15 minute coach trip will then whisk you away to the charming village of Guala. You’ll be welcomed with a glass of wine, and a delicious cheese board served with locally-made sweet potato bread.