It comes as no surprise that the Maderia Islands have won Europe’s Leading Island Destination 2020 at the World Travel Awards six times in a row. Located in the Atlantic Ocean, 350 miles from Morocco the island of Madeira boasts natural pools carved out of lava rocks, waterfalls and beautiful black sand beaches, there are plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel and windsurf in the island’s warm waters.
On our Walking the Island of Madeira trip discover the island’s spectacular coastal way-marked trails, visit the quaint fishing village of Machino and wander through the old trading centre of Funchal to learn about how their sugar and wine were exported to the Indies and the New World. On this Madeira tour, hike to the top of the island’s highest mountain, Pico Ruivo (1862m), enjoy a beautiful walk through the chestnut and eucalyptus woods from Encumeada and delve into the local history with a visit to the bustling Mercado dos Lavradores, “workers market” for a true cultural experience. We recommend trying their wide selection of tropical fruits, like peach-passion fruit, pitangas and Indian figs, or pick up some coloured bonbons that vary from Poncha to Madeira wine flavours.
Another spectacular Madeira walking holiday is our Marvels of Madeira Self-Guided Walk. While on this Madeira tour, you’ll explore the ancient cobbled circular route towards Sao Jorge, go on a gentle hike from the Parque das Queimadas to the Vale de Lapa and enjoy an exhilarating walk through pink belladonna flowers and eucalyptus trees to the lofty sea cliff of Cabo Girao for unforgettable views of the Atlantic.