Luxury Madeira Walk 6D5N (Epic Trails & Ancient Forests), Fully Guided

TWO HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx. 5 km (3 miles), Elevation gain: 61 m (200 ft)
Level 2, Approx. 8 km (5 miles), Elevation gain: 152 m (500 ft)

On the first day of the trip, meet your tour leaders at 9:30 a.m. at Quintinha Sao Joao Hotel & Spa in Madeira, Funchal, Portugal. Please ensure you arrive dressed in your hiking clothes and bring your luggage and a daypack containing your rain gear and anything else you may want for the day's hike (your luggage will be transported to our first night's accommodations).

Welcome to Madeira! Despite being only three times the size of Nantucket, this island, from its azure sea to its striking cliffs, is a treasure trove of natural wonders waiting to be explored. Following our meeting in Madeira's capital, Funchal, savour your first taste of island cuisine at a rustic taverna in the village of Camacha, just a short drive to the east.

From Camacha's cobblestoned streets, we make our way into the woods, navigating a section of the 600-year-old Levada dos Tornos. Originally built to irrigate the island, this waterway, like many others, crisscrosses Madeira's emerald mountains as it carries water to the island's lower elevations. As you continue on the trail, passing peaceful ponds, leafy ferns, and magnificent oak trees, you get a proper introduction to Madeira's breathtaking physical beauty.

After the hike, we shuttle to Casa Velha do Palheiro, our grand Relais & Chateaux getaway. This 5-star haven is a tranquil retreat nestled within the renowned Palheiro gardens and embraced by the lush greens of the 72-par Palheiro golf course. It’s the perfect sanctuary for unwinding—whether strolling through vibrant gardens, walking the levadas that trace the foothills, or indulging in the serene Spa. Tee off against a backdrop of sweeping Atlantic views, and savour a leisurely drink at the Club House.

We reunite for a warm welcome reception at a local tea house before having dinner at the hotel's elegant and award-winning restaurant.

THREE HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx. 5 km (3 miles), Elevation gain: 183 m (600 ft)
Level 2, Approx. 8 km (5 miles), Elevation gain: 366 m (1,200 ft) Level 2, Approx. 8 km (5 miles), Elevation gain: 488 m (1,600 ft)

We begin our exciting morning hike at Pico do Arieiro, the third-highest mountain in Madeira. From high up in the clouds, this 1800-metre (6,000-foot) tall massif provides picturesque views of the island's lush summits, terraced hillsides, and the red-toned rocks of its eastern shores. If you prefer a less steep route, the Pico View option takes you to some of Madeira's most gorgeous panoramas without as much height. Or, hike Pico Ruivo, Madeira's tallest ridge, where, on clear days, you can see out to Port Santo island floating in the distance.

We shuttle to the Palheiro Estate in the afternoon for a guided tour of its famed gardens. The Blandy family has been in charge of running the estate since the early 19th century. Walk through stunning camellia trees and topiary and sunken gardens as a member of the Blandy clan delights you with stories of the garden's history and development.

Our fun tour ends at the Palheiro Golf Clubhouse, where we relish a festive dinner before returning to the hotel.

THREE HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 8 km (5 miles), Elevation gain: 396 m (1,300 ft)
Level 2, Approx. 10 km (6 miles), Elevation gain: 396 m (1,300 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 16 km (10 miles), Elevation gain: 610 m (2,000 ft)

Today, we are dedicated to conquering Madeira's towering plateaus and verdant canyons. Our hike begins in a stretch of green hills and ancient laurel trees, scenery that dominated the island at some point. We carry on into the World Heritage Site of Laurissilva, the largest surviving laurel forest globally. The 20-million-year-old forest houses a fascinating variety of endemic species of flora and fauna. Our hike winds through its lush, misty landscapes, ending at a tranquil lagoon and waterfall.

We convene on the terrace to behold spectacular sea views and lunch. Try the tasty espetada, a traditional Portuguese dish of beef or pork skewers cooked over bay laurel branches and marinated in garlic and salt.

If you still want to head further, our afternoon hike follows a serene Levada trail through mountain faces adorned with waterfalls. The star of the show is Levada Nova, a cascade you can walk behind.

If you'd rather enjoy some relaxation time, head to Calheta and our elegant beachfront hotel for the evening, Saccharum Resort & Spa. The Saccharum sits majestically between Madeira's mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, providing an environment of exceptional quality. Relax in the spa or unwind by the infinity pool overlooking the Atlantic at this 5 star haven.

In Calheta, dinner is yours to savour. Explore the town's array of delightful eateries, each offering a unique taste of local flavor.

Level 1, Approx. 6 km (4 miles), Elevation gain: 91 m (300 ft)

After breakfast, go to Calheta's waterfront and board a boat for an unforgettable whale-watching experience. Situated deep in the Atlantic Ocean, Madeira is a permanent home or point of passage for over one-third of the world's dolphin and whale species. Breaching sperm whales, lively bottlenose dolphins, and Loggerhead turtles are some marine animals you may encounter today!

We descend from the boat at Faja Dos Padres, a small plain at the bottom of Madeira's peaks reachable only by boat or cable car. Its salt, mineral-rich soil nourishes an organic banana and passion fruit plantation. Stroll through the grounds to learn about the island's agriculture before we gather for a traditional Madeiran lunch featuring local wine and sampling the plantation's fruits. In the afternoon, visit the fisherman's village of Camara de Lobos, a seaside collection of white-washed houses bunched around a half-moon bay. Tread the coastline and soak in spectacular sea views and the multicoloured fishing boats bouncing in its glistening waters.

The majestic oceanfront Belmond Hotel, Reid's Palace, is our home for the next two nights. This 5-star hotel is nestled in tropical gardens and offers enchanting views of the Atlantic Ocean. In the evening, relish a nice treat of Madeiran wine before a lovely dinner of local and seasonal cuisine.

THREE HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx. 3 km (2 miles), Elevation gain: 91 m (300 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 11 km (7 miles), Elevation gain: 213 m (700 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 11 km (7 miles), Elevation gain: 579 m (1,900 ft)

Following breakfast, lace up your boots for a hike to Ponta de São Lourenço, an expanse of incredible basalt coastline that distinctly contrasts the island's lush interior. We navigate eroded volcanic cliffs and impressive rock formations doused in unique endemic plants. The path eventually tapers to a winding strip of land that protrudes into the sea. From the rugged point, the easternmost part of Madeira, behold stunning views of the expansive ocean and neighbouring islands, including Desertas Island, which connects to Madeira via an underwater landmass that continues past Ponta de Sao Lourenco.

We enjoy a fresh seafood lunch in the scenic fishing village of Canical before ending our exploration with 360-degree vistas of the island. Our afternoon path takes us to the summit of Pico do Facho, a viewpoint offering a heart-stopping panorama over the city of Machico, the peaks of central Madeira, the Ponta de São Lourenço, and the Desertas Island.

Despite the breathtaking scenery we've witnessed today, nothing compares to a cocktail with a sunset view, which is what awaits us back at Reid's Palace. We toast to an incredible trip and relish a Michelin-starred farewell dinner together.

For your last morning in Madeira, you can relax at the hotel with a refreshing dip in the picturesque pool or go into Funchal to explore with a local expert. The walking tour sheds light on the art and history of this historic city, from the Gothic and Romanesque style cathedrals to Rua de Santa Maria—a permanent art display with beautifying paintings on the doors, walls, houses, and shops along the street. Take the cable car to Monte, overlooking the city, for a final view of the island.

Afterwards, we enjoy lunch together before shuttling to the Funchal airport, where we say our goodbyes.

NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.