Madeira: The Flower Island

Upon arrival, you will be picked up for your very short transfer to Machico which is located on the east coast of the island. Machico is a tranquil and historical town where the people who discovered Madeira first landed.  With its ancient forts, beautiful beach and whitewashed houses, it is an idyllic retreat from which to start your trip.  

The community thrives on fishing and agriculture, so you can be sure of some delicious fresh produce when you dine out in one of the excellent restaurants at night.  

Today’s walk takes in the beautiful Sao Lourenco Peninsula, a dry and sunny corner of Madeira which contrasts with the lushness of the rest of the island. Take the bus (payable locally) to Canical where you will begin the walk. Today is a fantastic introduction to Madeira with stunning seascapes and views to the north and south, including the Ilhas Desertas (Deserted Islands).

This is also a great place for bird watching, as many species pass through on their migratory routes. Return to Machico by bus at the end of a rewarding day.

After breakfast you can either take the bus to the Levada Canical (payable locally) or you can walk to the beginning of the levada if you wish. There is also the opportunity to take an extra walk beforehand up the Pico Grande which has incredible views over Machico. Follow the levada along the wild, rugged northern coast to Porto da Cruz, a relaxed and charming village that produces an excellent dry red wine ‘Seco Americano’.  

At the end of the walk a taxi transfer is arranged to take you to Santana, a lovely village, characterised by its small thatched triangular houses, called "palheiros".

After breakfast a private transfer brings you to Pico das Pedras, from where you embark on your enchanting walk following trails through the lush emerald green paradise of Madeiras interior. Then arrive at the "Green Cauldron" which is split by a dramatic waterfall. Upon reaching Ilha you meet your taxi transfer back to your hotel in Santana where you can look forward to a relaxing evening.

Begin with a private transfer to Bica da Cana, leaving behind Santana and its fairytale cottages for the desert plateau of Paul da Serra, in the centre of the island. Whilst walking on the Levada do Norte you can enjoy impressive views over the Sao Vicente Valley, walking past cultivated terraces.

Dont forget to bring your head torch today as you have negotiate your way through numerous tunnels to reach the Encumeada pass. It is here that you will find the Hotel Encumeada nestled on the slopes of the Ribeira Brava Valley.

From the Residencial Encumeada, a short steep climb leads you to the first track of the day which is gently undulatinideg. This walk crosses beneath the Pico Grande and through a valley, which, until the 1950s was completely isolated. Eventually the path descends rapidly in a series of hair pin bends and ending in the hamlet of Faja Escura. From here a taxi transfer takes you to your accommodation in Funchal.

A transfer brings you to the edge of the village of Boa Morte, where you once again join the Levada do Norte as it winds its way through eucalyptus, sweet chestnut and pine trees, above the cultivated fields of the alluvial plain. The sights and sounds of village life greet you from below as you pass high above the villages of Corugeria, Campanario and Quinto Grande.

Finally, after traversing a short tunnel, you work your way up to Cabo Girao with its spectacular cliffs and after taking in the views, you have the option of continuing down the steep valley sides to the quaint fishing village of Camara do Lobos, where you can enjoy a beer or a coffee in one of the many harbour side cafes, before catching a bus back to Funchal.

An included transfer to Funchal Airport is included today and from here you can take your onward flights.