Sightseeing in Madeira

Funchal is a wonderful choice for garden and flower lovers, with Madeira’s warm, subtropical climate providing the perfect conditions for year round colour. At the Madeira Botanical Garden, you can explore five hectares filled with tropical plants, exotic species and vibrant flowers, while the 70,000m² Monte Palace Tropical Garden is home to an impressive collection of plants from around the world and is particularly beautiful in summer.

Set within a grand estate on the outskirts of Funchal, Palheiro Gardens is another beautiful spot to explore. Wander among the varied collection of plants and flowers before taking in the spectacular hilltop views across Funchal Bay.

You’ll also find some impressive gardens at our hotels, but few can rival Quinta Splendida in Caniço. Its 30,000m² botanical garden is filled with an abundance of tropical plants, colourful flowers and peaceful corners to explore.

This is a full-day walk where you'll find a majestic waterfall, wonderful views over the village São Jorge, a variety of plant species, and dramatic mountains. Half way through the walk you'll find yourself at a Levada located in the Laurissilva Forest which has been a UNESCO world heritage site since 1999. Make sure to pack your torch! Along the way you will find some tunnels to walk through, finishing the walk at Caldeirão Verde where you will see the huge waterfall cascading on the crystalline lagoon. Once you've reached the waterfall you'll walk back the way you came.

• Grade: Moderate
• Distance: 13km
• Duration: approx. 8 hours (walking time approx. 4 hours, 30 minutes)
• Ascent/descent: 100m ascent and descent
• Terrain: Mostly level, uneven in a few places along the way
• Useful information: Transport to and from your hotel is included. Bring a packed lunch. There’s a café en route (Cafetaria das Queimadas), but it may not always be open. A public toilet is available at the starting point (€0.50 per person). For this walk, we recommend bringing a torch as you’ll pass through around five tunnels. Some are long, narrow, dark, and low in places, so you may need to crouch. There are no alternative routes around them, but they’re an unforgettable part of the adventure, carved dramatically into the rock. Please note there is a local access fee of €4.50 per person for those who are 12 years old and over (payable locally). 

Departs: Tuesdays.

For 2026 holidays, this walk is included - please give us a call to add it to your booking.

Image copyright: Francisco Correia

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.