At a Glance
Set out on an unforgettable 8-day private walking adventure across Portugal’s Madeira Island, a hiker’s paradise filled with breathtaking landscapes. Explore picturesque levadas, lush forests, and stunning coastal views while immersing yourself in the island's rich culture. Enjoy luxurious 5-star accommodations, private yacht charter and exquisite Michelin-star dining. This meticulously crafted itinerary guarantees personalised experiences and exclusive access, ensuring you fully appreciate Madeira's enchanting beauty and natural splendour in an intimate and unparalleled style.
Your adventure unfolds in Funchal, where you’ll enjoy a private transfer to your luxurious 5-star hotel, culminating in a welcome dinner at its Michelin-starred restaurant. The next day, set out on the breathtaking Larano Cliff Walk, taking in sweeping views of the São Lourenço Peninsula and the chance to spot local birdlife. Your exploration continues with an ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- 7 nights accommodation in 5 star hotels on a twin share basis
- Meals as specified in the itinerary
- English speaking guide
- Tours and transfers as mentioned by private air-conditioned vehicle
- Entrance fees for mentioned visits
- Activities and experiences as outlined in the itinerary
- Service charge and current government VAT/GST tax
Itinerary
Welcome to Madeira! Upon landing at Funchal Airport, your private driver will whisk you away to the luxurious Reid’s Palace, A Belmond Hotel. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic, this haven is a timeless icon of luxury in Funchal. After settling in, the rest of the day is yours to explore or unwind at your leisure. With 125 years of history, this sanctuary is nestled within lush subtropical gardens, offering a serene escape where you can stroll through vibrant orchids and palms or bask by one of three pools. Take a dip in the ocean from the sea-level platform, or unwind on the famous checkered terrace, soaking in the breathtaking views of the Atlantic. |
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As evening falls, indulge in a memorable welcome dinner at the resort’s Michelin-starred William Restaurant. Enjoy a five-course Signature Menu that celebrates the island’s finest ingredients, masterfully crafted with international flair, all while gazing out at the breathtaking Funchal coastline. |
Approx. 12km (7 miles), 4-5 hours walking, Moderate Start your day with a gourmet breakfast, enjoying breezy luxury by the Atlantic. We'll then whisk you away from the hotel for the scenic Larano Cliff Walk. Situated along the island’s stunning northeastern coastline, be awed by some of its most dramatic landscapes. Stretching approximately 12 kilometers, this moderate trail winds through lush agricultural land, allowing hikers to experience the vibrant flora and fauna of the region. As you stroll along the rugged cliffs, you’ll be treated to sweeping panoramic views of the São Lourenço Peninsula, with its unique rock formations and azure waters, as well as the distant silhouette of Porto Santo Island shimmering on the horizon. The path itself is steeped in history, having served as a vital connection between the north and south coasts of the island, once used by locals for trade and travel. Along the way, keep an eye out for the diverse local birdlife that inhabits the area, adding to the walk's enchanting atmosphere. In the evening, dive into the art of Madeiran cuisine with an Espetada workshop. Learn the secrets of preparing this traditional dish, marinating tender beef in garlic and bay leaves before cooking it over a wood fire. Then, savour your creation alongside locals, with all the island's charm on display as you enjoy it with corn cubes, salad, and the island’s famous bolo do caco bread slathered in garlic butter. |
Approx. 11km (7 miles), 4-5 hours walking, Moderate Start your day with a gourmet breakfast infused with the enchanting flavours of Madeira, setting the perfect tone for an exhilarating hike to the breathtaking Valley of Rabaçal. After being picked up from your hotel, you'll journey to this natural wonder, descending from the Paul da Serra plateau to the Rabaçal guesthouse, where your adventure begins. As you trek towards the Risco waterfall and continue along the Levada das 25 Fontes, you'll be captivated by the stunning natural surroundings, culminating in the serene Lagoa das 25 Fontes, fed by 25 springs that cascade from the plateau. The walk offers impressive views over the Ribeira da Janela valley, showcasing the lush vitality of the Laurissilva forest, and the unique contours of the lagoon invite you to pause and reflect. Once you reach the lagoon, take a moment to regain your strength before retracing your steps back along the levada. A packed lunch will fuel your journey. |
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You will be transferred back to your hotel where you can unwind and soak in the stunning views of the Atlantic from one of the resort’s two luxurious heated pools—one seawater and one freshwater—or challenge yourself to a match on the tennis court. For a touch of indulgence, consider a rejuvenating spa treatment (at your own expense). Tonight, savour a delightful three-course dinner at Ristorante Villa Cipriani, where the Tuscan-inspired chef skilfully reinterprets timeless Italian classics with a modern twist. |
Begin your day with another delightful breakfast at the resort. After a convenient pickup from your hotel, you'll be transferred to Funchal Harbour for a kayaking safety briefing before embarking on your adventure to the stunning nature reserve. Once you arrive at Garajau, paddle for 40 minutes towards Lazareto, where you can pause on a picturesque pebble beach to soak in the stunning rock formations and tranquil scenery. Dive into the crystal-clear waters to snorkel among Madeira's vibrant native marine life, or, if the weather doesn’t cooperate, explore the coastline safely from your kayak. Thrill-seekers can even try their hand at cliff diving before heading back to your hotel to unwind. After the kayaking adventure, enjoy some leisure time at the resort’s exquisite facilities, with lunch at your discretion. Indulge in local, seasonal cuisine at one of Reid’s Palace’s renowned restaurants, whether you choose the Michelin-starred William or a casual meal on the terrace under tat Ristorante Villa Cipriani. If you're feeling adventurous, take a 15-minute stroll to Funchal city centre for more dining options. |
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Later in the afternoon, enjoy a private four-hour boat charter, complete with a sumptuous dinner onboard and a bottle of champagne as you cruise through beautiful, crystal-clear bays, soaking in the breathtaking scenery of Madeira. NOTE: we can remove the boat charter to meet your preferences and budget. Please contact us for a tailor-made itinerary. |
Approx. 8km (5 miles), 4 hours walking, Moderate Be treated to a hearty breakfast by the Atlantic Ocean before a pick-up from the hotel, taking you to the captivating Ponta de São Lourenço at the eastern tip of the island. This stunning trail, nestled within Madeira’s Natural Park in Caniçal, offers breathtaking views of both the northern and southern coasts as you immerse yourself in the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this semi-arid climate. As you hike, marvel at the intriguing rock formations shaped by the island’s volcanic origins, providing a stark yet beautiful contrast to the lush levada paths found elsewhere on the island. Classified as a Partial Nature Reserve, this area is home to rare plant species and diverse wildlife, including one of the largest colonies of seagulls in the region and protected seabirds like shearwaters and Bulwer's petrels. With a bit of luck, you might even spot the elusive monk seal in its natural habitat. A packed lunch will sustain you on your journey. |
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Following your invigorating hike, you’ll be whisked away to your new sanctuary at Quinta da Casa Branca, an esteemed member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World. This modern boutique haven is nestled within breathtaking gardens that boast an array of global flora, inviting you to unwind in a tranquil escape. Large glass windows offer stunning views of the lush surroundings, while a spacious heated pool beckons for a refreshing dip. Your cozy room, complete with a private terrace or balcony, provides the perfect setting to immerse yourself in the beauty of vibrant floral displays. Take a leisurely stroll through the enchanting gardens, and find a peaceful nook perfect for reading enveloped in serenity. In the evening, enjoy gastronomic fine dining at the hotel’s Dining Room Restaurant. Be treated to a 3-course dinner, where innovative and contemporary cuisine awaits, promising an exquisite culinary experience to end your day. |
Approx. 11km (7 miles), 4-5 hours walking, Moderate Indulge in a gourmet breakfast surrounded by the beauty of the garden before embarking on another exhilarating hike. Starting at Paul da Serra and ending in Fanal, this stunning trail showcases Madeira’s Laurissilva vegetation at its finest. Along the way, pause to admire ancient trees, diverse birdlife, and breathtaking views of the Ribeira da Janela and Chão da Ribeira valleys, with a packed lunch provided for your journey. After returning to the hotel for some relaxation, prepare for an evening steeped in Madeiran culture. Your driver will escort you to a charming local restaurant for a delightful dinner featuring the famous espetada, made from marinated beef or chicken, served with corn, salad, and bolo do caco with garlic butter. Enjoy a captivating live performance of Madeira's folk dances, including the lively Bailinho da Madeira, which showcases traditional rural life. After dinner, embrace the spirit of the island by joining in the dance and learning some classic steps! |
Approx. 10km (6 miles), 5 hours walking, Moderate Indulge in a gourmet breakfast before your final adventure as we pick you up from the hotel for an unforgettable hike through the stunning Madeira Peaks. This thrilling journey begins at Pico Areeiro (1,818 meters) and winds through jagged volcanic formations, leading you to the island’s highest point, the majestic Pico Ruivo (1,862 meters), before descending to Achada do Teixeira. Along the way, marvel at the vibrant array of unique plants, especially in spring when the landscape bursts into colour, and stroll through ancient heather forests that have stood since the island’s discovery. In the evening, unwind with pre-dinner drinks at AVISTA, an exclusive spot where the sky meets the Atlantic Ocean—alcohol is at your own expense. Your farewell dinner awaits at the illustrious Il Gallo D’oro, a two-Michelin-star restaurant celebrated for its sustainable practices and refined Iberian-inspired cuisine crafted by Chef Benoît Sinthon, featuring a menu that highlights Madeira’s local ingredients. Indulge in an exquisite degustation menu and savour the perfect ending to your unforgettable journey. |
Enjoy a relaxing breakfast on the island, a great time to reflect on your inspiring journey before a private transfer to Funchal Airport to meet your departing flight. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
Accommodation
Dates & Prices
Daily departure on request. Please contact us for group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request.
More Info
- The departure and finish point is Funchal.
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Funchal. The closest airport to Funchal, Madeira is Cristiano Ronaldo Madeira International Airport (also known as Funchal Airport). It's located about 20 minutes or 13 kilometers (8 miles) northeast of Funchal.
Madeira's weather is similar to that of Portugal's. Areas along the coast experience a typical Mediterranean climate, with warm days and year-round sunshine. In the mountains, the weather is cooler and more unpredictable, with fog and wind being common conditions. On most days you'll be comfortable wearing a short-sleeved jersey or T-shirt. Keep in mind that this trip goes from sea level to 5,500 feet in elevation. As we head higher into the mountains you'll likely want to wear a lightweight jacket or vest. In order to make your trip as comfortable as possible, please come prepared for rainand cooler temperatures. Waterproof, breathable gear isa must, and a sweater or light jacket for evenings is highly recommended, as are gloves and a hat.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 60 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 60 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 60 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 60 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The walks take place in very special wilderness settings. The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a walk with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the walk has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any walk up to 60 days prior to departure if a minimum of 4 walkers are unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the walk or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.