Madeira at a glance
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From volcanic vistas and mountain levadas to Funchal city with its museums and markets – Madeira holidays are for those with a sense of adventure
- Levada trails through lush forests
- Clifftop walks with coastal views
- Botanical gardens & colourful local dishes
Walking holidays in Madeira
Set 1,000 kilometres away from mainland Portugal, Madeira is a one-of-a-kind island. It’s formed from the tip of a sunken volcano, for one, and although it’s long been dormant, these volcanic origins shape the landscapes explored on walking holidays in Madeira. The most famous footpaths are the levada walking trails – ingenious irrigation systems that twist and turn through fairy-tale forests and mist-wreathed mountains. Walking, cycling, boat trips, wine tasting and feasting on island cuisine are also excellent ways to get stuck into the spectacular geography of Madeira.
If you're planning to discover Madeira in 2026, we recommend booking early. Popular resorts like Funchal can sell out quickly so book now with only a £150pp deposit to make sure you get the holiday you want.
Levadas lead the way to Madeira’s most legendary walking routes. Around 3,000 kilometres of paths follow these stone irrigation channels, originally built to swish water from the rainy, subtropical north-west to the dry, semi-arid south-east. Some hikes are easy meanders between orchards and prehistoric laurel forests; others clamber up (and up and up) to mountains and gorges. And with names like Paradise Valley and Eagle Rock, who can resist?
Canyoning, coasteering, cycling, bird watching, Nordic walking – the extraordinary landscapes of Madeira are best explored by diving right in. Plus, you’re surrounded by the depths of the Atlantic Ocean, where whales, sea turtles and pods of dolphins roam. Head to Canico for a glimpse of the Garajau Partial Natural Reserve, a protected area for marine life.
Back on dry land, weekly markets pop up in village squares, with stalls piled high with hand-made embroidery and woven wicker baskets. And in summer, the familiar chime of church bells calls islanders (and all!) to the many food- and fireworks-filled saints’ fiestas.
Thanks to its mild winters, Madeira is walkable year-round. This isn’t just great news for wanderers – the weather also inspires the island’s flora to burst into colourful blooms. The island capital of Funchal lays out tropical and botanical gardens filled with flowers, fountains and sculptures, as well as picnic spots in which to admire them all. Alternatively, catch a bus out to the smaller orchid and rose gardens sprinkled around the island.
You’ll eat well in Madeira, where island favourites range from seafood skewers and passion fruit ice cream to bolo do caco flatbreads slathered in garlic butter. Madeira wine is the most famous tipple; discover the nautical history behind this fortified brew on a vineyard tour. Funchal is home to the biggest choice of restaurants, and exploring its neighbourhoods is as exciting as digging into the varied dishes. We recommend catching the cable car up to the high-rise parish of Monte for your fill of cinematic views.
The Best of Madeira
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Levada walking trails -
Madeira's tropical flowers -
São Jorge -
Madeira's coastline -
View over the Funchal Bay -
Tropical gardens In Monte
Popular walking destinations in Madeira
Madeira Insider Guides
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Set 1,000 kilometers away from mainland Portugal, walking holidays to Madeira offer a real sense of adventure. Some hikes are easy meanders between orchards and prehistoric laurel forests; others clamber up (and up and up) to mountains and gorges. What sets Madeira apart is its year-round subtropical climate, making it an absolute haven for walkers and nature lovers alike.
Madeira offers walks for all levels, from leisurely strolls to moderate routes. Its diverse terrain showcases vine terraces and dramatic coastal cliffs with stunning sea views. Discover charming villages along the way, perfect for a break and sampling local cuisine while admiring the scenery. Madeira promises a memorable walking experience amidst captivating landscapes and warm hospitality.
Walks in Madeira can be challenging and are recommended for regular and experienced walkers. Madeira consists of mountain terrain with Levadas which can be narrow, steep and require sure-footedness. There are around 3000 kilometers of trails to explore across Madeira, each promising a unique adventure. Discover our guide on the best walks in Madeira to find out more.
Yes! You'll have the chance to join a guided walk every Tuesday (full day) and Thursday (half day) in Funchal and Caniço. Please note: the guided walks in Madeira are open to everyone and are not exclusive to Inghams guests. Read our Guided Walks guide to find out more.
For some head spinning heights and spectacular ocean views, visit Cabo Girão cliff which sits at an impressive 580 metres high. Or, for the best view in Funchal, hop on the Funchal cable car and ascend to the beautiful botanical gardens where you can delight in breathtaking scenery. Prefer to explore on foot? Then join our included guided walk to Caldeirão Verde - you’ll pass by dramatic peaks, distant ocean views and tropical wanders and waterfalls.