Madeira is renowned for its incredible walking and hiking opportunities. A series of paths lead alongside the island’s Levadas, showcasing some of the most stunning natural beauty that Madeira has to offer. Levadas are man-made irrigation channels that are unique to the island. One of the most popular hikes in Madeira is from Pico do Areiro to Pico Ruivo, the highest peak on the island, you’ll enjoy not only an exhilarating route but breathtaking scenery. The terrain can be challenging at times, so guided tours are recommended for less experienced hikers.

Discover Madeira differently on a 4x4 tour of the island, letting you get off the beaten track, quite literally. These excellent day tours usually focus on either the east or the west of the island and will showcase the changing scenery of the island, from the rugged mountain terrain to the dense forest. You’ll reach isolated and difficult to access parts of the island, getting a full picture of the natural beauty that Madeira offers in abundance.

There are several exciting festivals and fiestas that take place in Madeira throughout the year. With everything from music to nature being celebrated, each one is as interesting and sensational as the last. Some of the more popular festivals and celebrations include: The Madeira Carnival, a vibrant, exuberant selection of events, culminating in a colourful and noisy parade. The flower festival, paying homage to the incredible diversity of flora and fauna found on Madeira. The Madeira Wine festival, celebrating the history of one of the island’s best known and most delicious exports. And the festivities of Christmas and New Year, which climax with one of the most dazzling fireworks displays in the world, lighting up the sky around Funchal on the stroke of midnight.

One of the island’s most famous exports is that of Madeira Wine, so it would be wrong to visit this wonderful archipelago without tasting this delicious, fortified wine. The origins of Madeira Wine are fascinating, dating back to 17th century, it was created by adding distilled alcohol to wine in order for it to stabilise and survive during the long journeys at sea. The unique process of ageing the wine adds to its complex and delicious flavour.  A great place to sample and learn more about Madeira Wine is at Blandy’s Wine Lodge in Funchal, where tours and tastings can be arranged.

Whilst sandy beaches are rare of the island of Madeira, the neighbouring island of Porto Santo is home to one of the most pristine sand beaches in the world. Dubbed the Golden Island, you’ll find a 9 kilometre long beach with fine golden sand running into the stunning turquoise waters that lap the shore. From Madeira, Porto Santo can be reached by a 15 minute plane ride or on a 2 and a half hour ferry. There are also organised boat and catamaran tours that include a stop on Porto Santo.

In the North West of the island, you’ll find the amazing Porto Moniz Natural Pools, these swimming pools were formed by volcanic lava over thousands of years and are filled with crystal clear water, the sea constantly flowing through them. At high tide the waves create a magical display as they crash on to the volcanic rocks.  It’s a fantastic place to spend the day surrounded by incredible scenery, great fun for adults and children alike.

In the waters off the coast of Madeira are numerous species of dolphin and whale that make this part of the Atlantic Ocean their home all year round. This makes Madeira the perfect place to enjoy an incredible boat trip from. There are various options, including a pirate ship, whilst the majority of boat tours leave from Funchal. These boat trips will take you out in search of some of the 28 species of dolphin and whale that are found in the nearby waters. For a full day cruising experience, why not join one of the boat trips to Desertas Islands or Porto Santo, spotting some of the beautiful marine life along the way.

Located on the southwest coast of the island and close to the town of the same name, Calheta Beach has 2 man-made beaches, both with golden sand imported from Morocco. Bathed in sunshine and very family friendly, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely day. Restaurants, bars, and a supermarket are located along the shoreline, offering plenty of choice for lunch or dinner.  

On the north coast of Madeira is the incredible black sand beach of Seixal. Surrounded by rugged, stunning scenery, Seixal is without doubt one of the most beautiful spots on the island. Behind the beach you’ll find a lovely restaurant which overlooks a collection of natural pools, these pools are protected from the sea and over another wonderful spot for a swim.

Machico is the second largest town on the island and boasts a lovely sandy beach. Another man-made beach, it’s a wonderful place for families to relax or splash about in the sea. There is a promenade to stroll along and across a small bridge you’ll find a selection of small restaurants and cafes around a plaza, adjacent to a pebbly beach.

Formosa beach can be found in Funchal and is just a 10 minute drive from the city centre. Frequented by locals and tourists alike, Formosa is made up of 3 small sand beaches and a larger pebble one. You’ll find a lively, friendly atmosphere along the 2 kilometre stretch of Blue Flag waters.