Madeira is a beautiful island located in the Atlantic Ocean. It is part of Portugal and is known for its stunning landscapes, lush greenery, and vibrant flowers. The island has a mild climate all year round, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With its mountains, cliffs, and picturesque villages, Madeira offers an unforgettable experience.
Madeira is easily accessible by air. The main airport is Cristiano Ronaldo Madeira International Airport, located about 20 kilometers from Funchal, the capital city. Direct flights are available from many European cities. Once you arrive, renting a car is a great way to explore the island at your own pace. The roads are well-maintained and offer breathtaking views.
Madeira has a reliable road network. Driving around the island allows you to see its beauty without the hassle of public transport. Many attractions are within a short drive from each other. If you prefer not to drive, local buses connect major towns and cities. However, a self-drive adventure gives you the freedom to stop and explore whenever you like.
Funchal is the capital city of Madeira and a great starting point for your adventure. The city is known for its beautiful gardens, historic sites, and lively markets. Visit the Mercado dos Lavradores, a bustling market where you can find local produce, fish, and flowers. Don’t miss the Madeira Botanical Garden, which showcases the island's unique flora.
Pico do Arieiro is one of Madeira's highest peaks. It offers stunning views of the island and is accessible by car. The drive to the summit is scenic and takes you through lush forests. Once at the top, you can enjoy panoramic views and take short hikes along well-marked trails.
Madeira is famous for its levadas, which are irrigation channels that run through the mountains. These channels create a network of hiking trails. Exploring the levadas is a unique way to see the island’s natural beauty. Trails vary in difficulty, so there is something for everyone. Some popular levada walks include Levada do Caldeirão Verde and Levada dos 25 Fontes.
Located on the north coast of Madeira, Porto Moniz is known for its natural swimming pools formed by volcanic rock. The pools are filled with crystal-clear water from the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the stunning coastline. Nearby, you can explore the town and enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants.
Santana is a charming village famous for its traditional A-frame houses called "casas de colmo." These colorful houses are a must-see and make for great photo opportunities. In Santana, you can also visit the Parque Temático da Madeira, a theme park that showcases the island’s culture and history.
Ponta de São Lourenço is a stunning peninsula located on the eastern tip of the island. It offers dramatic cliffs and breathtaking ocean views. The area is perfect for hiking and has well-marked trails. You can enjoy a scenic walk while taking in the natural beauty and diverse landscapes.
This picturesque fishing village is located just a short drive from Funchal. Câmara de Lobos is known for its colorful boats and charming harbor. It’s a great place to enjoy a drink and try the local dish, "espetada," which is marinated beef skewered on a bay laurel stick. The village inspired Winston Churchill, who painted its beautiful scenery.
Madeira is small, and most places can be reached within a few hours' drive. Here are some distances from key locations:
These short distances make it easy to explore multiple sites in one day.
Madeira has a rich culinary scene that combines fresh local ingredients with traditional flavors. As you explore, be sure to try some local dishes:
You will find a variety of dining options, from local taverns to upscale restaurants. Many places focus on fresh seafood, given Madeira’s coastal location.
While renting a car is the best way to explore Madeira, public transport is also available:
Everything covered in your booking, plus important pricing notes.
Arrive at Madeira International Airport, pick up your car and before driving to the hotel we recommend visiting Santo Da Sierra and Machico. Santo da Serra is about 9 km from the airport. In Santo da Serra is worthwhile visiting the “Quinta do Santo da Serra” where you will be able to have a glimpse of the Madeira vegetation and a wide variety of flowers and plants. Also have a visit to the stables. This “farm” is open daily. Machico was the landing point of the discoverers of Madera in the 15th Century. The bay of Machico invites for a walk along the seafront while enjoying the amazing view over the sea and the island. Weather permitting you can have a swimming in the sea, in the small sand beach “planted” in the bay. Then drive to the village of Boaventura for your first night. Overnight in Boaventura.
ARRIVAL MADEIRA - BOAVENTURA (60 km - 1hr)

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