Walking, Wine Tasting & Whale-Watching: The Highlights of Madeira

Head out today in the company of a knowledgeable private driver-guide for an adventure through the island’s wild and hilly hinterland in a 4x4. Journey west to the striking Serra de Agua valley to visit a beautiful village built into the steep slopes. From here, wind your way up to the Encumeada pass, which rises to a height of 2,300ft and separates the north of the island from the south. Naturally, the views from here across both sides of Madeira are truly stunning. Continue across the famous Lauriferous Forest of Madeira, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring 90% primary forest of moss, fern and rare species of flora and fauna. Round off your adventure discovering the enchanting vineyards of Seixal, and, of course, sampling the finest local wines and traditional tapas specialities this region has to offer. Head back to Funchal this afternoon and spend the rest of today further soaking in the delights of the city. We could also arrange for your to discover the bustling Mercado dos Lavradores and the village of Monte with a private guide.

Owing to its prime location in the North Atlantic Ocean, Madeira is a great place to observe majestic marine species like dolphins and whales passing on their migratory routes. Throughout the seasons, nearly 28 species visit these waters, including sperm whales, Byrde’s whales and bottlenose dolphins. Spend a few hours sailing off the coast of Funchal, getting close enough to observe these gentle giants move in their natural environments without disturbing them. You can also opt to extend your day at sea with a guided fishing trip off the coast of Funchal.

Swap the hustle and bustle of Funchal with the coastal calm of the northwest of the island as you journey an hour to Porto Moniz. Perched between the ocean and some curious black rock formations, this small seaside resort has the laid-back atmosphere of island living. Hang up your hat in a beautiful hotel nestled right on the water’s edge and spend the next two days resting and recharging your batteries in total bliss. Swim in refreshing Atlantic waters, laze on plush sun loungers and feast on ultra-fresh seafood specialities. This part of the island also has some great hiking opportunities, so we can also arrange for you to trace Madeira’s old irrigation canals as you embark on a guided hike along the Levada do Alecrim.

Your journey across Madeira continues today with an hour-long drive along the north coast of the island to Santana, a beautiful sea-fronted town known and adored for its traditional housing. On arrival, settle in for two nights in a hilltop farmhouse surrounded by vineyards and flower gardens and spend the rest of today soaking in the cultural delights of Santana. The star of the show here is the collection of ‘Casas Típicas’, traditional stone houses with triangular thatched roofs. There is a well-curated museum that details the curiosities of traditional architecture as well as the way life has changed on the island over the centuries. You could also use your hire car to explore the many points of interest in the surrounding area. From the challenging hike up to the Penha de Agua summit, to the baroque altarpiece of the church of São Jorge in the west and the Miradouro do Guindaste viewpoint, there is plenty to keep you busy in and around Santana.

Madeira is a home to an incredible network of irrigation canals that crisscross the island and were designed as far back as the 16th century to supply the driest parts of Madeira with water. After a hearty breakfast this morning you’ll be met by a seasoned private guide and led on along the Levada Referta. This trail allows you to observe the pristine natural landscapes, picturesque villages and endemic flora and fauna of the northeast of the island.