Madeira: Coast to Coast Luxury Road Trip

1. Day 1 Arrival in Madeira Island. Drive to Calheta

   Welcome to Madeira! Pick up your car on arrival and let your adventure begin by driving to your hotel in Calheta.

   Suggestion for the day:

   • Explore Madeira’s stunning West Coast: From dramatic cliffside hikes to relaxing on the world-famous Seixal Beach, Madeira's West Coast offers adventure and tranquility. Discover hidden villages, stunning vistas, and the unique charm of this island paradise. Here's what awaits you:
     • Ribeira Brava
     • São Vicente
     • Seixal
     • Porto Moniz
     • Calheta 
     • Ponta do Sol 
2. Day 2 Free Day for Personal Activities

   Suggestion for the day:

   • Go on an unforgettable whale & dolphin watching trip in Calheta: Madeira's beauty isn't confined to its breathtaking mountains, vibrant gardens, and charming villages. Venture offshore, where the ocean plunges to depths of over 3,000m (9,850ft). These rich waters teem with life, creating a haven for whales, dolphins, and countless other marine species. Madeira's proximity to the vast North Atlantic Ocean Whale Sanctuary, a protected expanse twice the size of Lisbon, makes encountering these magnificent creatures a thrilling possibility. With over 28 species in the area, a boat trip promises close encounters with the ocean's playful inhabitants. Book this tour that departs from Calheta's marina here (only 3 minutes walking from your hotel).
3. Day 3 Free Day for Personal Activities

   Suggestion for the day:

   • Relax at Calheta's Beach: Just outside your hotel, you'll find this beautiful small beach of yellow sand - one of the most sought-after seaside havens on Madeira's western coast. This sun-drenched paradise offers the perfect escape, where you can bask in the warmth of the region, toes sinking into the soft, golden sands while the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic lap gently at the shore.
4. Day 4 Free Day for Personal Activities

   Suggestion for the day:

   • Go on a hike near your hotel:
     • Levada das 25 Fontes: For nature enthusiasts, Levada das 25 Fontes unlocks a UNESCO-listed wonderland. Traverse the Laurissilva forest, a verdant haven, and discover the source of its name: 25 cascading crystal-clear springs!
     • Levada Nova/Levada do Moinho: For a more adventurous spirit, the circular Levada Nova/Levada do Moinho beckons. This 9km loop unveils breathtaking coastal vistas and lush forests. Encounter the enchanting Moinho Waterfall and a unique section carved into the rock face – a true hiker's delight!
       • Both hikes are located around 30 minutes by car from your hotel and are medium-difficulty hikes that take from 3 to 4 hours to finish. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and bringing water, and some light snacks with you.
   • Take the day or the afternoon to enjoy your hotel's amenities and experiences, like the Pools, the Spa, a Yoga or Meditation Class, or a Food Workshop.
5. Day 5 Drive to Funchal

   Suggestion for the day:

   • Check in at your hotel in Funchal and take this day to stroll around Funchal’s historical streets: Funchal is the vibrant capital city of Madeira, an archipelago located in the Atlantic Ocean and an autonomous region of Portugal. Nestled between the hills and the sea, Funchal is known for its picturesque setting, rich history, and lively atmosphere.
     • Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers' Market)
     • Sé Cathedral
     • Santa Clara Convent
     • Museu de Arte Sacra (Museum of Sacred Art)
     • Blandy's Wine Lodge
     • Zona Velha (Old Town)
     • Praça do Município (Municipal Square)
     • Fortaleza de São Tiago (São Tiago Fort)
     • Marina and Waterfront
6. Day 6 Free Day for Personal Activities

   Suggestion for the day:

   • Discover Madeira’s Eastern wonders: Step into a world of timeless charm in Madeira's Eastern region. Discover Santana, a village where centuries-old traditions live on in its iconic thatched houses. Immerse yourself in the picturesque beauty of the landscape, where history whispers through ancient customs and breathtaking scenery.
     • Santana
     • Machico
     • Pico do Areeiro
     • Ponta de São Lourenço 
7. Day 7 Free Day for Personal Activities

   Suggestion for the day:

   • Take the Day for a Hiking Adventure: Madeira's rugged mountains and cascading waterfalls have earned it the well-deserved title of "hiker's paradise." Explore the island's unique history and breathtaking landscapes along the "levadas" – old irrigation canals that once carried precious water across the island. These now-iconic paths offer trails for every adventurer, from gentle nature walks in the sunny south to exhilarating treks through the dramatic northern mountains. No matter your experience level, Madeira's trails will unveil unforgettable beauty. You can do these trails on your own, as they are well-marked and maintained, but if you prefer to do it with a guide, you can click here to book them.
8. Day 8 Free Day for Personal Activities

   Suggestion for the day:

   • Take the Day to Explore Funchal's Botanical Gardens: Discover the natural wonders of Funchal with a day dedicated to exploring its renowned botanical gardens, featuring the iconic Monte Palace Tropical Garden.
     • Start your day immersed in the exotic beauty of the Monte Palace Tropical Garden. Lose yourself amidst its lush greenery, unique cultural exhibits, and perhaps even a graceful swan or two.
     • Then, go on an exhilarating Monte Toboggan ride, a one-of-a-kind adventure where wicker baskets whisk you down the streets.
     • Continue your botanical journey at the Funchal Botanical Garden in the city center. Marvel at the diverse plant life while enjoying breathtaking coastal vistas.
     • Throughout the day, savor the tranquility of these gardens. Capture vibrant floral colors, fragrant scents, and the unique essence of Madeira's natural wonders.
   • Bid farewell to Madeira with a Typical Night Dinner: Immerse yourself in the island's vibrant culture with a delicious 3-course dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a lively folklore show where you can even try out the traditional dances! Cap off the night with breathtaking views of Funchal's twinkling lights from a scenic viewpoint. Pick-u/drop-off is included in hotels in Funchal's city center. Schedule your typical dinner here.
9. Day 9 Return Flight Home

   Thank you for choosing us! We hope you had an incredible time in Madeira, and we can't wait to embark on more adventures with you soon.

Available Experiences

Optional

Hiking: Caldeirão Verde Levada Walk

Additional cost applies

Optional

Whale Watching : Half Day

Additional cost applies

Optional

Madeira Wine Tour - Vineyards and Cellars: Full Day

Additional cost applies

Optional

Wine & Food Tours: Safari + Madeira Table Wine Tasting & Snacks

Additional cost applies

Optional

Private Yacht Tours: Sunset

Additional cost applies

Optional

Van Tour: Typical Night Dinner

Additional cost applies