A Week in Madeira: An Epic 7-Day Adventure Through Portugal’s Island Paradise
Madeira may be small, but it is absolutely packed with incredible things to see and do.
This rugged Atlantic island is a dream destination for anyone who loves dramatic scenery, hiking, exploring the outdoors, or simply witnessing mind blowing sunrises and sunsets. From watching the first light hit the clouds at Pico do Arieiro, to swimming in crystal clear natural pools and winding your way along jaw dropping mountain roads, Madeira delivers non stop beauty every single day.
In this blog, I’ll take you through my epic 7 day Madeira itinerary filled with adventure, hidden gems, and unforgettable viewpoints that prove why this Portuguese island deserves a spot on every traveller’s bucket list. Hopefully it will inspire you to start planning your own Madeira adventure or finally book that dream trip you’ve been thinking about.
Why Madeira
When Jet2holidays first approached me about this trip, I was given the choice of Jet2 destinations all across Europe . After a little thought the decision was simple: I chose Madeira.
It’s a place full of meaning for me and my wife as it’s where we spent our honeymoon, and returning almost a year later felt extra special. Beyond that, Madeira is one of those rare islands that offers both adventure and relaxation. You’ll find dramatic mountain trails, hidden waterfalls, lush forests, ocean-cliff walks and cosy spots to simply sit back with a drink.
Although it really is an adventurer’s playground, don’t let that put you off if hiking isn’t your thing. Many of Madeira’s best viewpoints and attractions are easily accessible and only require a low level of fitness. You can wander to a stunning cliff edge with little effort, or spend a week sipping poncha by the pool without being judged.
Planning ahead is easy thanks to the range of hotels in Madeira available through Jet2holidays. Whether you’re after a peaceful oceanfront stay or a family-friendly resort with lots going on, you’ll find something to suit.
Flying with Jet2holidays
We booked the whole thing through Jet2holidays – flights, transfers and hotel – and it was as smooth as we could have hoped. Having everything looked after from the start takes away so much of the usual travel stress. Better yet, when I compared what it would cost to book flights and hotel separately the Jet2holidays package turned out to be better value.
If you’re planning a getaway, Jet2holidays offer a solid selection of flights to Madeira from UK airports. They also have great deals for last minute holidays if you fancy something spontaneous.
Hotel Sentido Galosol
When it came to choosing our hotel through Jet2holidays, Sentido Galosol immediately stood out. Its location, reviews and the facilities it offered ticked all our boxes.
The hotel sits in Caniço on the south coast of Madeira, perched on the cliffs just off the main ring road. That means it’s super convenient for exploring the island yet at the same time the hotel feels tucked away and calm.
The rooms were bright, modern and comfortable with balconies overlooking the ocean. As you will discover from the remainder of my blog, breakfast was one of my favourite parts of the day: a generous buffet alongside an outdoors seating area next to the pool; that faces out to sea and the rising sun.
We particularly loved the fact that the hotel had a well-equipped gym and a health spa. Being able to train in the morning or unwind after a hike is a big plus for me, especially if I have had four croissants too many at breakfast. Another stand out feature was the Lido Galomar sea-access area was was built into the cliffs in front of the hotel. Free to use for hotel guests it was accessed by a glass lift which felt like something from a james bond movie.
Day 1: Arrival and Sunset at Cristo Rei
We flew out from Bristol Airport, which is the closest major airport for us in South Wales. I don’t really class Cardiff as major in the same way. Check in was quick, security was smooth, and we even managed to grab a quick photo at one of the Jet2 check in stands before heading to the gate.
The Jet2 flight to Madeira took around four hours and absolutely flew by. The highlight was definitely the approach into Funchal. The island’s dramatic mountains rise straight out of the ocean, and the landing itself is one of the most unique in the world. The runway is built partly on enormous concrete pillars that stretch out over the sea, which makes it both a little nerve wracking and seriously impressive to see from your window seat.
After touching down at Cristiano Ronaldo Airport, yes it really is named after the footballer and there is even an entire museum dedicated to him nearby, we collected our rental car. I can’t stress this enough, a hire car is essential for getting around Madeira. It gives you total freedom to explore at your own pace and reach all the viewpoints, trails and hidden corners that public transport just doesn’t cover.
It was only about a ten minute drive along the southern coast to reach our hotel, Sentido Galosol. From the moment we arrived, we were blown away by its setting. The hotel sits right on the cliffs in Caniço, overlooking the Atlantic with modern facilities and a calm, coastal atmosphere that instantly puts you in holiday mode.
After checking in and unpacking we wasted no time heading straight to the hotel’s sea access area, Lido Galomar. Built directly into the cliffs, it is reached by a glass lift that takes you down to a series of terraces with a saltwater pool and direct access to the ocean. Access is free for hotel guests, and there is also a small bar and restaurant which makes it a great place to unwind after a travel day. We grabbed a drink, sat by the water and just soaked it all in. It was the perfect way to start the trip.
Being based on the opposite side of the coast compared to our last visit, I wanted to make the most of the hotel’s location and head out to explore a nearby viewpoint for sunset. A short ten minute drive, just over three miles, took us to Cristo Rei, one of Madeira’s most famous landmarks.
Cristo Rei is a striking white statue of Christ that stands on the cliffs above Garajau with open arms facing the ocean. It is similar in style to the famous statue in Rio de Janeiro, although smaller, and it offers incredible panoramic views along Madeira’s southern coastline. We walked down the long stone steps to the viewing platform at the base of the statue, where we watched the sun slowly dip below the horizon, painting the sea and cliffs in shades of gold and pink. It was a stunning way to end our first evening and the perfect welcome back to this beautiful island.
Day 2: Ponta de São Lourenço and Pico do Arieiro
We started the morning by watching the sunrise from the hotel during breakfast. The outdoor seating area at Sentido Galosol sits right next to the pool and faces south, so we could sit with a coffee and croissant and watch the first light roll across the Atlantic. Honestly, that combination is elite.
After filling our boots at the buffet, and maybe sneaking a cheeky sandwich for later, we set out for one of Madeira’s most famous hikes, Ponta de São Lourenço, also known as PR8.
This trail takes you along the island’s easternmost peninsula, a long narrow stretch of volcanic cliffs and rolling hills surrounded by the Atlantic. It feels different from the rest of Madeira, drier, more rugged and almost desert like in places, and the views are spectacular from start to finish. The hike is about seven kilometres in total, and while there are a few steep climbs and descents, it is very manageable for most people. The main challenge is the sun, as there is little shade and the heat can make the ups and downs feel tougher than they really are, so plenty of water and a hat are a must.
The trail ends at Miradouro Ponta do Furado, a beautiful viewpoint at the very tip of the peninsula. From there you can see the dramatic coastline drop into the ocean on both sides and even spot the uninhabited Desertas Islands in the distance. We took some time to sit, enjoy the breeze and take in the sheer scale of it all.
After making our way back and grabbing a quick swim and shower at the hotel, we set off again for one of Madeira’s most iconic spots, Pico do Arieiro.
Having visited before, I can confidently say that sunset here is the way to go. Sunrise might get all the attention, but sunset is quieter, parking is much easier, and you can check the live webcams beforehand to make sure the conditions look good.
We arrived with about an hour to spare and were treated to a beautiful partial cloud inversion, which is surprisingly common up at this altitude. The walk from the main viewpoint to the famous Stairway to Heaven is only around one point two kilometres each way, and it is definitely worth doing. The views along the path are breathtaking, with jagged peaks, waves of clouds drifting between the mountains and golden light spilling across the ridges.
As the sun began to dip, we slowly made our way back towards the car park, stopping several times to watch the colours change. The sky glowed with soft oranges, deep reds and purples long after the sun had set. It was busy, as it always is up there, but it did not take away from how magical the moment felt. It is one of those places where even with a crowd, you cannot help but stop and just stare in silence..
Day 3: Bica da Cana & Levada Nova
We started the day early, heading up to Bica da Cana for sunrise. The viewpoint sits high on the Serra de Água plateau and looks across to Madeira’s central peaks, including Pico Ruivo and Pico do Arieiro. When we arrived, the clouds were rolling through the valleys below us, creating a perfect inversion that looked like waves of mist spilling over the mountains. The whole scene was quiet, peaceful and a little bit surreal. It is one of those moments that makes the early alarm completely worth it.
After snapping a few photos and taking it all in, we drove back to the hotel just in time for breakfast. One of the nice things about staying at Sentido Galosol is that the buffet runs until ten o’clock, so even after an early adventure you have time to get back and refuel properly. We tucked into another spread of pastries, fruit and cooked dishes before planning the day ahead.
By late morning we were back on the road, this time heading west to hike the Levada Nova trail. Madeira is famous for its levadas, which are narrow irrigation channels that crisscross the island and now double as walking routes. Levada Nova is easily one of my favourites. The path runs along the cliffs above the valley of Ponta do Sol, passing through small tunnels, lush greenery and ending with a dramatic double waterfall that you can actually walk behind.
The walk is roughly seven kilometres long with very little elevation, so it is a good option for most people, though it does have a few exposed sections that might not suit those with a fear of heights. The sound of running water follows you almost the entire way, and the views down into the valley are stunning. It a rewarding route that captures the best of Madeira’s natural beauty without being overly challenging.
On the way back we stopped in Ponta do Sol, a small harbour town that looks like it belongs on a postcard. Colourful houses line the promenade, and the beach is a mix of smooth stones and dark volcanic sand. It is a perfect place to grab a coffee or sit by the sea for a while.
We decided to round off the day with a relaxed evening near Praia Formosa, a long stretch of rocky beach west of Funchal. To reach it, you walk through a tunnel that opens up to views of the coast and natural sea pools. We caught the sunset from the water’s edge, watching the sky fade from orange to deep pink before heading up to Doca do Cavacas for dinner.
We shared a fish platter that was easily one of the best meals of the trip. Sitting on the terrace with the sound of waves crashing below us, we ended the night full, tired and completely content.
Day 4: North Coast and Pico Grande
We started the morning slowly, enjoying the sunrise from the hotel balcony before battering the buffet and setting off to explore the north and west of the island.
This side of Madeira has a completely different feel to the south. It is wilder, greener and filled with dramatic cliffs that plunge straight into the sea.
Our first stop was Miradouro do Véu da Noiva, which translates to Bride’s Veil viewpoint. The name comes from the waterfall that spills down the cliff face like a flowing veil. It is one of those classic Madeira scenes that perfectly captures the island’s rugged beauty. The old coastal road that once ran past here was destroyed by landslides years ago, but the viewpoint itself is safe and easy to reach, offering sweeping views along the coastline.
From there we continued to Seixal, a charming little village that feels worlds away from the busier southern coast. Its black sand beach is framed by steep green cliffs and offers an incredible view down the northern coastline. It has proper Jurassic Park vibes, and I was half expecting Sam Neill to pull up in an open-top four by four.
On the way to Porto Moniz we stopped at Ribeira da Janela, which is famous for its three jagged sea stacks rising from the ocean just offshore. Like many places in Madeira, parking is free and it is a quick stop that is well worth making. A short tunnel carved into the rock leads you out to a small platform where you get an amazing view of the sea stacks, with waves crashing dramatically below.
A short drive later we arrived in Porto Moniz, a picturesque town known for its natural volcanic sea pools that were formed by ancient lava flows now filled with seawater. There are two main areas to swim here. The larger western pools are more developed and have lifeguards, changing rooms, and a small café. We chose the smaller and quieter eastern pools, which are free to enter and feel more natural. Floating in the saltwater while watching the Atlantic crash against the rocks is a lovely way to cool off after a morning on the road.
After lunch we headed inland towards Fanal Forest, one of Madeira’s most atmospheric places. Located high on the Paul da Serra plateau, Fanal is famous for its ancient laurel trees that twist and bend in every direction. It is best visited when it is covered in fog, which transforms the area into something straight out of a fairytale. When we arrived the mist was thick, and the trees looked mysterious and almost otherworldly. We spent half an hour wandering through the fog while the sound of cowbells echoed across the hills. It was only a short pit stop but that all you need.
That evening my wife decided to relax at the hotel while I set out to hike up to Pico Grande for sunset. This is one of Madeira’s lesser known but most rewarding trails. It is not paved and requires a good level of fitness and proper footwear, especially since the final kilometre is steep, rocky and climbs more than three hundred metres.
The views along the way and from the summit are breathtaking. The trail winds along the mountainside with deep valleys on either side, and as I climbed higher the landscape became even wilder and more dramatic. I only passed one other person on the entire route, which made it feel even more special. When I reached the summit, I was greeted by a beautiful partial cloud inversion. I sat in the golden light, tucked into a delicious poke bowl I had brought with me and watched as the sun dipped below the horizon, lighting up the clouds and sky in incredible colours.
After legging it back down in the dark (one benefit of hiking alone is that I can move twice as fast), I met my wife for a well deserved pizza from the restaurant just outside the hotel. The perfect end to another amazing day.
Day 5: Funchal, and Pico Ruivo
We decided to take things a little easier on day five after a few packed days of hiking and driving. The morning started with a slow breakfast on the terrace before heading into Funchal, Madeira’s capital.
To be completely honest, Funchal is nice enough but I would not call it a must see if you only have a week on the island. It has plenty of charm, with cobbled streets, colourful doors and a great market, but Madeira’s real magic lies in its landscapes. That said, it was good to stretch our legs and finally see the city we had skipped on our first trip.
While in town, we decided to tick off one of Madeira’s most famous traditions, the Monte Toboggan Ride. It is one of those things that sounds a little gimmicky but ends up being great fun. You sit in a wicker sled that is pushed and steered by two men dressed all in white, wearing straw hats and rubber soled shoes that help them brake and steer. These men are officially known as the Carreiros do Monte, and they have been keeping this tradition alive since the eighteen fifties.
The ride takes you around two kilometres down steep, winding streets from Monte back towards Funchal, passing small gardens and houses as you glide downhill. Originally it was a quick way for locals to get from the hills into the city, but these days it is all about the experience.
I chatted to our Carreiros at the bottom. One had been doing it for over thirty years, the other for just three. You could tell straight away who was who. The younger one was full of beans and giving it everything, cause him to lose his hat, while the older one barely flinched and just carried on steering. I would definitely recommend it, even just for the novelty and the laughs.
Later that afternoon we began the drive up towards Pico Ruivo, at 1,862m its the highest peak on the island and has arguably the best views in Madeira.
Like most afternoon on the island the cloud had drifted in. However I had checked the webscams before setting off and seen that and Pico do Areeiro was above the cloud, so I was reaming hopefully for a sunset inversion.
After a long and windy drive up through the mist we just broke through clouds as we reached the car park at Achada do Teixeira. From there it just under 3km hike up to the summit along a well-maintained path.
There is something so special about standing above the clouds as the sun pours golden light across the mountain tops. As the sun began to dip, the sky glowed orange and pink, and a few broken spectres appeared, hovering in the distance like tiny rainbows.
There were a few dozen people up there but it never felt crowded, especially with several viewpoints to spread out on. It was easily one of the most spectacular sunsets I have ever seen. If you can only do one hike in Madeira, this is the one I would recommend. We have done it twice now, both times for sunset, and it has never disappointed.
Day 6: Waterfalls, Cable Cars and Sunset on the West Coast
After another beautiful sunrise from the hotel balcony, we once again battered the buffet breakfast before setting off for a day packed with exploring. We had already seen a lot of Madeira’s central and northern areas, so today’s plan was to head inland and then west towards the far side of the island.
Our first stop was Levada do Risco and Levada das 25 Fontes, two of Madeira’s best known waterfall hikes. We decided on Levada do Risco as it is slightly quieter and, in my opinion, more impressive. The walk starts from Rabaçal and follows a narrow irrigation channel that winds through lush laurel forest and along steep cliffs before leading you to a dramatic waterfall that drops into the valley below.
The route is around six kilometres in total with a mix of shaded forest paths and open stretches that offer sweeping views across the hills. It is not a difficult walk, though a few sections are uneven and a bit slippery, so decent footwear definitely helps. Standing in front of the waterfall surrounded by mossy rocks and the sound of rushing water was an incredible way to start the day.
After hiking back, we headed to one of my favourite coffee stops on the island, Gato Legal Coffee Roastery. It is a small but stylish café known for serving some of the best coffee in Madeira, and after a few hours of walking it hit the spot perfectly.
From there we continued west to ride the Teleférico das Achadas da Cruz, one of the steepest cable cars in Europe. The descent is wild, with a gradient of around 98 percent, dropping more than 450 metres from the cliff tops down to a tiny coastal village below. Tickets cost five euros per person for a return journey and the ride is short but unforgettable, with the Atlantic stretching endlessly in front of you and towering cliffs rising behind.
At the bottom, you can wander through the little settlement known as Fajã das Achadas da Cruz, where old stone houses, terraced fields and bursts of wildflowers make it feel like you’ve stepped back in time. We spent about forty-five minutes walking around, grabbed a cold beer from the small café and just soaked in the peace and quiet before taking the return ride back up the cliff. Check out the gallery blow to see how crazy and cool the place is.
That evening we made our way to Miradouro da Raposeira, a bit of a hidden gem on the west coast and a brilliant place to watch the sunset. We finished the day with dinner at the Fish Factory in Paul do Mar. We had eaten here twice on our honeymoon and loved it, so coming back felt special. The food was as fresh and delicious as ever, with generous portions and perfectly cooked fish. It was the perfect way to end our final full day on the island
Day 7: Sunrise at Ponta do Rosto and One Last Dip
Our final morning on the island started with a sunrise adventure, but thankfully not an early one. I set off towards Miradouro da Ponta do Rosto, which sits at the very tip of the eastern peninsula. The drive from Caniço only takes around twenty minutes, and since sunrise here is just after eight, it meant I didn’t have to get out of bed until about seven fifteen. For a sunrise mission, that is practically a lie in.
The viewpoint looks out across the rugged coastline of Ponta de São Lourenço, with waves crashing below and the morning light spreading slowly across the sea. It is one of those places that feels incredibly wild and raw. Watching the sun rise over the Atlantic from here was the perfect way to say goodbye to Madeira.
After a few photos and a quiet moment taking it all in, I drove back to the hotel for one final assault on the breakfast buffet. Sitting on the terrace with coffee and pastries, watching the sunlight glimmer on the water felt like the perfect full circle moment to finish the trip.
The rest of the day was spent exactly how it should be; soaking up the sun, relaxing and squeezing in one last swim at Lido Galomar. After such a full and adventure packed week, it was the perfect slow and easy end to the trip .
Final Thoughts
What a week.Honestly, Madeira is such a magical and special place, and one I’d recommend everyone visit at least once. It’s one of those rare destinations that manages to be both adventurous and relaxing at the same time. A place where you can hike through dramatic mountain ranges one day and be floating in the Atlantic with a poncha the next.
It was also really lovely to go back almost exactly a year after our anniversary, which made the trip feel extra meaningful. There’s something special about returning to somewhere that already holds great memories and being reminded of just how incredible it is.
Madeira truly is a paradise for nature and outdoor lovers, with no shortage of things to see and do. That being said, don’t feel like you have to be an avid hiker or ultra-fit explorer to enjoy it. Most of the main sights are surprisingly accessible and only require a low level of fitness.
It’s the perfect destination for anyone who wants a mix of adventure and comfort, or even for those who’d rather spend their days relaxing by the pool with a drink in hand (which, trust me, absolutely no one will judge you for). The weather here is too good not to make the most of it.
Having been twice now, I can confidently say the island never gets old. Even revisiting some of the iconic spots didn’t feel repetitive. If anything, it made me appreciate them even more, and there were still plenty of new places to explore.
It was also great to stay in a different area this time. On our honeymoon we stayed in Calheta, which was stunning, but we did find ourselves doing a fair bit of driving to reach the east and central parts of the island. Staying at Sentido Galosol this time was ideal. Being on the south-east coast meant we could easily hop onto the ring road and reach pretty much anywhere within an hour.
The hotel itself was fantastic. The rooms were spacious, modern and comfortable, and waking up to sunrise views from our balcony was a real treat. Breakfast each morning was a highlight too, nothing beats sitting on the terrace with a coffee and croissant while the sun climbs over the ocean.
Another big reason I chose Sentido Galosol was for the facilities. The hotel has a proper gym and a full health spa, which might not be a dealbreaker for everyone, but for me it was a big plus. I like keeping active even on holiday (or at least trying to offset the daily pastries) so having access to a decent gym made a difference. The spa, on the other hand, was the perfect excuse to do nothing at all afterwards.
The sea access at Lido Galomar was another bonus and probably my favourite part of the hotel. You take a glass lift down through the cliffs to the water, where you can swim in the Atlantic or sunbathe on the terraces. It’s such a unique experience and we actually didn’t use the hotel pool once because we loved the Lido so much.
Parking was easy, with plenty of free and paid spots outside, and there were lots of nice restaurants and cafés nearby. I always recommend booking a hotel that includes breakfast; it takes away that early-morning hassle and gives you a chance to fill up properly before a full day of exploring (and maybe sneak a cheeky sandwich for later).
I also prefer not to go half or full board because it gives you total freedom. You can chase sunsets, stay out late and try the plethora of delicious well priced restaurants around the island. Sunset is easily the best time to experience so many of Madeira’s most popular viewpoints as the crowds thin out, the light turns golden and everything spears far more spectacular.
All in all, travelling with Jet2holidays made the whole trip completely stress-free. From the flights from Bristol Airport to the transfers and hotel, everything was organised and easy. Booking it as a full package genuinely took away all the hassle and even worked out cheaper than sorting it individually. It made the whole experience smooth and easy, letting us focus on actually enjoying the holiday rather than worrying about the details.
If I could sum it all up, Madeira really is one of those places that stays with you. It has everything you could want from a adventurous getaway; stunning hikes, dramatic scenery, great weather, and delicious food. You can fill your days exploring peaks and waterfalls or spend them by the pool with a drink in hand and it will still feel like the perfect trip.
It is a destination that keeps calling you back, and after another unforgettable week, I already know I will be returning again soon.
Maderia FAQs
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One of the standout attractions of Madeira is its year-round warm weather. The local climate is notably stable, with temperatures seldom falling below 20°C (68°F) or exceeding 30°C (86°F).
That being said the best time to visit Madeira is typically during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to October). During these months, the weather is pleasantly mild, with fewer tourists (although it will never be quiet), making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the beautiful landscape.
Spring offers blooming flowers, lush greenery, and flowing waterfalls, while fall provides warm temperatures and the chance to enjoy local festivals.
The only negatives of visiting in of fall is that the some of the waterfalls will be reduced to a trickle or might have dried up completely. The island is also prone to wildfires throughout summer which can result in some of the hiking trails remaining closed.
I visited twice in October, everyday was sunny with temperatures ranging between 22-30 degrees. The waterfalls however resembled more of trickle and several of the major trails (including PR1) were closed due to previous wildfires which had left them unsafe and damaged
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At a minimum you would need five days. Although the island isn’t big, there are so many unique and interesting things to do and see.
In addition the island incredibly hilly and its roads are ludicrously windy and steep, meaning getting from one side to another takes a lot longer (and more concentration) than expected.
A week would be great however 10 days would be perfect amount of time to truly experience and appreciate Madeira. This duration allows you to explore the island's stunning landscapes, charming towns, and enjoy various activities whilst also have the occasional chilled day.
If you have more time, two weeks can provide a more leisurely experience, with their amount of time you can see all must-visit locations without rushing and having a lazy day at the hotel. You can also take the time to visit the nearby island of Porto Santo.
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Although the climate is notably stable, with temperatures seldom falling below 20°C (68°F) or exceeding 30°C (86°F).
The islands unique geographical location alongside its mountain terrain means that the weather can be unpredictable and frequently changes.
It’s not uncommon to get multiple weather conditions in a single day. It’s also not uncommon for one side of the island to be covered in cloud or raining, and the other to be in glorious sunshine.
The north half of Madeira can be relatively wet, but the south, only receives between 600mm and 1000mm of rain per year. Outside of the relatively wet period, which runs between November and February, rain is an infrequent concern on Madeira.
Alongside monitoring the weather, you can download the Madeira Weather app for up-to-date local forecasts, it’s also worth using the app Windy to check the wind speed and direction.
In addition, Madeira has a dozen or so webcams spread across the entire island. It’s always worth quickly checking these before you leave to see the weather conditions and save a potentially wasted trip
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Your choice of where to stay in Madeira depends on both the length of your visit and what you want to see and do.
Funchal is a good option if you are short on time and want maximum convenience. It has plenty of hotels, restaurants and easy access to tours and excursions. That said, it is very tourist driven, quite busy, and does not really give you the full island experience.
On my two visits, I have stayed in Calheta and Caniço, and I can recommend both. However, if you want to see as much of the island as possible, be prepared to spend a fair amount of time driving.
In Caniço, we stayed at Sentido Galosol, a hotel I would definitely recommend. It is well located for exploring both the east and the central interior without marathon drives. Built into a cliff with direct sea access, it has top notch facilities including a fitness club, wellness centre and a lido built into the sea cliff. Despite its size, it still manages to feel peaceful and uncrowded. The breakfast buffet was also excellent, made even better by watching the sunrise from the terrace with a coffee and croissant in hand.
Calheta is another excellent choice. It is one of the sunniest parts of the island, with a small marina, a handful of good restaurants, and two golden sand beaches sheltered by a large sea wall. It is a great base for exploring the west and northwest, including Paul do Mar, Jardim do Mar and the Fanal Forest.
We stayed at Savoy Saccharum in Calheta for our ten day honeymoon, and it was stunning. The hotel has a beautiful infinity rooftop pool and fantastic facilities, but the drives to the eastern side of the island were long. It took around 60 to 80 minutes each way to reach some of the must see spots, and by the end of the trip we had clocked 1,379 kilometres in the car.
If you are staying for ten days or longer, I would suggest splitting your stay between two bases on opposite ends of the island. It will cut down on driving and let you experience two different sides of Madeira.
My recommendation: spend half your time on the south west coast and the other half on the south east coast. You will cover more ground with fewer hours behind the wheel.
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Technically no, but practically yes.
Buses do exist, but they are limited, infrequent, and not particularly trailhead friendly. Renting a car gives you the freedom to go wherever you want, whenever you want — which is essential in Madeira. There is so much to see and do across the entire island, especially those harder to reach hidden gems and off the beaten track locations.
Having your own car also lets you head out for sunrise missions or stay out for sunset without being restricted by public transport timetables.
When renting a car, go for something small but powerful, as you do not want to spend every incline switching between first and second gear. And if you are not completely confident with clutch control, consider an automatic. Your nerves and your passengers will thank you.
Both times I have visited Madeira, I have rented through Discover Cars. They search both local and international companies to find the best deals, then let you choose the supplier that suits you best, whether that is based on price, reviews or reputation.
You can use my affiliate link below to book your car hire. It comes at no extra cost to you, but helps me keep this website running;
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Not really, it is no different to mainland Portugal. I actually found Madeira very affordable, especially when it comes to drinks.
A bottle of beer usually costs between €1 and €2, while a pint is around €2.50 to €3.50. Coffee ranges from €1 to €3, and a soft drink will generally set you back about €1.50.
Food prices vary depending on where you choose to eat. There are plenty of small snack bars dotted around the island where you can grab a light bite or sandwich for around €2 to €7.
If you are eating in a restaurant, expect to pay between €12 and €20 for a main meal. Portion sizes are generous, and the quality is consistently high, especially if you order fresh fish. Sides usually cost around €3 to €5.
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There is so much to see and do in Madeira, especially if you love the outdoors. Expect waterfalls, hiking trails, levadas, mountains, viewpoints, natural sea pools, history and culture.
Check out my blog on 25 of the best things to see and do in Madeira for a full overview and inspiration for your trip.
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Three of my favourites include:
Risco Waterfall
Cascata dos Anjos
Levada Nova Waterfall
👉 Check out my full guide: 7 Must Visit Waterfalls in Madeira
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Madeira’s mountainous terrain makes it one of the best places in Europe to watch the sunrise. From coastal cliffs to towering peaks, the island’s viewpoints deliver unforgettable mornings. Three of my favourites include:
1. Pico Ruivo - The highest peak in Madeira and an unbeatable spot for sunrise.
2. Ponta de São Lourenço - Perched on the far eastern tip of the island, this rugged peninsula is the first place to catch the morning sun.
3. Bica da Cana - A quiet and underrated viewpoint on the Paul da Serra plateau.
👉 For more ideas and detailed directions, check out my full guide: Best sunrise locations in Madeira
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Madeira’s sunsets are just as impressive as its sunrises, with golden light washing over mountains, cliffs and the open Atlantic. Three of my favourites include:
1. Pico Ruivo - Yes, it is just as magical at sunset.
2. Ponta do Pargo Lighthouse - The westernmost point of the island and one of Madeira’s classic sunset viewpoints.
3. Pico do Arieiro - Easily accessible by car and often above the clouds, Pico do Arieiro offers some of the most dramatic sunsets in Madeira.
👉 Discover more incredible sunset spots here:Best sunset locations in Madeira
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While Madeira is known more for cliffs and coves than endless sandy beaches, the island is full of incredible natural swimming spots and calm bays. Three of my favourites include:
1. Porto Moniz Natural Pools - The most famous swimming spot in Madeira. These volcanic rock pools are filled with crystal-clear Atlantic water and are safe, scenic and perfect for all ages.
2. Seixal Beach - A striking black sand beach surrounded by cliffs and lush green hills.
3. Calheta Beach - One of the few golden sand beaches on the island, with calm, sheltered waters protected by a breakwater. Ideal for swimming, sunbathing and relaxing.
👉 Explore more recommendations in my full guide: Best swimming spots in Madeira
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I created and run this website in order to help inform, amaze, inspire people (for free) to get outside and explore the adventurous side of the UK.
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