Known as the 'Garden of the Atlantic', Madeira is a volcanic island of eternal spring, famous for its spectacular mountain landscapes, historic levadas and lush laurel forest.
The largest pocket of laurel forest in the world, a relic ecosystem from the Tertiary era that survives thanks to the island's humid climate.
Todo lo que necesitas saber sobre Madeira
Tipo
Island Destination
Extensión
57 km
Estancia recomendada
7 días
Región
Región Autónoma of Madeira
Madeira, the jewel of the Portuguese Atlantic, is a destination that captivates with its dramatic orography and perennial greenery. Unlike other island destinations, Madeira does not stand out for its sandy beaches, but for its impressive cliffs, its natural volcanic rock pools and a network of trails unique in the world: the levadas. Its capital, Funchal, is a cosmopolitan city with a rich historical legacy, dreamlike botanical gardens and vibrant gastronomy. The island is a paradise for active tourism, whale watching and those seeking a deep connection with nature in a mild climate all year round.
Destino costero excepcional
Hiking through the Levadas, ancient irrigation canals that cross mountain and jungle landscapes.
Funchal, with its historic center, the Mercado dos Lavradores and the cable car to Monte.
Natural pools of Porto Moniz and Seixal, formed by volcanic lava and bathed by the ocean.
Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo, the highest peaks with literal views above the clouds.
Cabo Girão, one of the highest cliffs in Europe with a glass platform (skywalk).
Fanal Forest, a dreamlike landscape of ancient trees shrouded in fog.
Regional gastronomy, highlighting the espetada, the bolo do caco and the refreshing poncha.
Whale and dolphin watching in their natural habitat throughout the year.
16-21°C
20-26°C
18-24°C
14-19°C
Oceanic subtropical climate. More frequent rains between November and February, especially on the north coast and the summits. The south enjoys a drier and sunnier microclimate.
Influenced by the Gulf Stream, the water is warm. In summer it is around 22-24°C and in winter it does not usually go below 18°C. Ideal for water activities all year round.
Being an island in the ocean, some open coast areas can have strong currents. It is recommended to use supervised areas or natural pools.
ModerateOccasionally, depending on the currents, Portuguese man-of-war may appear. There are warnings on the beaches if this happens.
ModerateDescubre Funchal
Descubre Macho
Descubre Chamber of wolves
Descubre Santa cruz
Discover everything Madeira has to offer
Discover the incredible coasts and marine landscapes of this destination
One of the most beautiful beaches on the island, with natural black sand, surrounded by green mountains that fall directly into the sea.
Fine black volcanic sand.
Crystal clear and refreshing, protected by a natural breakwater.
Generally safe, but pay attention to the Atlantic waves.
Easy access on foot from the town of Seixal.
Limited free parking nearby.
Local restaurants a few meters away.
Showers, toilets and cafeteria nearby.
Pools formed by volcanic rocks where sea water enters naturally. A unique bathing experience in the world.
It does not have (volcanic rock).
Sea water constantly renewed by waves.
Very safe, with lifeguards and delimited areas.
Fully accessible, ramps and stairs.
Nearby public parking (paid and free).
Quality restaurants in the surroundings.
Changing rooms, lockers, bar, umbrellas.
Artificial beach of golden sand imported from Morocco. It is one of the few clear sand options on the island.
Fine golden sand.
Very quiet thanks to the stone breakwaters.
Very tall, ideal for children.
Excellent, in the center of Calheta.
Paid underground and surface parking.
Many bars and restaurants on the seafront.
All beach services available.
Explore the charming towns that give life and character to this coast
The capital, an amphitheater city facing the sea. It mixes botanical gardens, historic wine cellars and a modern boardwalk.
Famous for its traditional thatched houses with a triangular shape and bright colors (Casinhas de Santana).
Picturesque fishing village that inspired Winston Churchill. Famous for its colorful boats and the poncha.
Dive into unique adventures and discover the sea from another perspective
Catamaran or speedboat excursions to see dolphins, whales and turtles in the wild.
Madeira is one of the best places in the world for canyoneering thanks to its rivers and waterfalls.
Crystal clear waters with great visibility to see giant groupers and manta rays.
Known as the Hawaii of the Atlantic, it offers challenging waves for experienced surfers.
Descubre los secretos mejor guardados y rincones únicos que pocos conocen
A forest of ancient laurels that seems straight out of a story, especially when the fog covers it.
Bring warm clothing, the weather changes quickly.
A small organic garden at the foot of a giant cliff, accessible only by cable car or boat.
It has a very quiet pebble beach and an excellent restaurant.
Europe's steepest cable car descends to a secluded seaside farming village.
Not suitable for people with extreme vertigo.
Conecta con la naturaleza y descubre paisajes únicos que te dejarán sin aliento
One of the most spectacular routes, going through tunnels and jungle to a 100-meter waterfall.
The most famous mountain route connecting the highest peaks. Breathtaking alpine landscapes.
The eastern end of the island, an arid and volcanic landscape that contrasts with the rest of the greenery of Madeira.
Honest Atlantic cuisine, based on local products such as bananas, chestnuts, fresh fish and beef.
Cubes of beef skewered on a bay leaf branch and roasted on the grill.
Wheat flour and sweet potato bread, served hot with garlic and parsley butter.
Deep fried black swordfish (typical) accompanied by fried banana.
Mollusks served in the same pan where they are cooked with garlic and lemon.
World famous fortified wine, with varieties ranging from dry (Sercial) to sweet (Malvasía).
Traditional drink made with sugar cane liquor, honey and lemon or orange juice.
The local Madeira beer, very light and refreshing.
The oldest sweet, a dense cake made with cane honey, nuts and spices.
Small cakes of fresh cheese, sugar and eggs.
Madeira celebrates life with massive events full of color and flowers throughout the year.
The most famous event, with parades of floats covered in natural flowers and floral carpets in the streets.
Recognized in the past by Guinness as the largest in the world. The Funchal amphitheater is completely illuminated.
Harvest celebration with historical reenactments, tastings and folk music.
One of the best in Europe, with a great allegorical parade reminiscent of Rio de Janeiro.
Descubre los lugares más fascinantes e imperdibles de esta costa
Glass platform suspended 580 meters above the sea.
Free or very low cost entry. Very busy.
A town located at the bottom of a crater surrounded by vertical mountains.
Famous for its chestnuts and liqueurs.
Each point of interest has its own unique history and magic
Complete evaluation based on multiple quality criteria
"It is not a destination of white sand beaches. Pebbles and black volcanic sand predominate. However, the natural pools are world class."
"Funchal offers museums, colonial churches and unique traditions such as the 'Carreiros do Monte'. Great wine heritage."
"Funchal has an excellent network. To explore the rest of the island, buses are slow due to the terrain; the car is preferable."
"Excellent network of tunnels (express roads) that connect the island. Driving on old roads requires skill on the slopes and curves."
"Very competitive prices compared to the rest of Europe, especially in local gastronomy and wine."
"Safe and with many outdoor activities, although levada hiking requires caution with small children."
"Intense flavors and fresh products. The swordfish with banana and the meat on a bay leaf skewer are not to be missed."
"Strong focus on laurel forest preservation and ecotourism. Much of the island is a protected natural park."
"It attracts nature lovers, photographers and hikers. It is a destination that builds great visitor loyalty."
"World leader in hiking, trail running, canyoning and big wave surfing (in winter)."
"Extremely well-kept cities and trails. Funchal stands out for its cleanliness and impeccable gardens."
"One of the safest destinations in the world. The crime rate is practically non-existent."
"Funchal is elegant and picturesque. Towns like Câmara de Lobos or Santana maintain a very photogenic traditional charm."
"Insurmountable. The combination of green mountains, black cliffs and the blue ocean creates breathtaking landscapes."
"Strategic point to see whales, dolphins and the rare Mediterranean monk seal."
"Madeira is a mature and sophisticated destination that offers a wilderness experience with all the European comforts."
🌟 Destino Extraordinario
💭 "Madeira is a mature and sophisticated destination that offers a wilderness experience with all the European comforts."
Everything you need to know to plan your visit
Madeira is a year-round destination. For hiking and seeing the island in its maximum floral splendor, spring (April-June) is ideal. To enjoy the sea and the summer parties, July to September. Winter is very popular to escape the European cold, especially at Christmas and New Year's Eve.
The climate in the mountains can be radically different from that on the coast; always wear a waterproof jacket. On the levadas, respect the difficulty levels and do not walk alone if you do not have experience. Secondary roads can be very steep and narrow.
Funchal has free Wi-Fi in many places. Hotels and cafes offer good connection.
Operators such as MEO, NOS or Vodafone offer prepaid cards with a lot of data at low prices.
Some hiking routes have sections with vertical drops. Although they usually have safety cables, they are not suitable for people with severe vertigo.
If you rent a car, choose one with enough power. The slopes of Madeira are among the steepest in Europe.
They are a real means of transportation on the island to overcome unevenness. Use them to access isolated coastal areas.
Order it 'regional' (lemon and honey) for the authentic experience. Be careful, it's stronger than it looks.
Don't leave without trying the descent in wicker baskets from Mt. It is a tradition of more than 100 years.
