Individual Hiking Tour of Madeira - The best Flower Island

Even the approach to Madeira is gigantic. In a left turn, the plane hovers over the deep blue waves before touching the runway. From here you drive directly to your hotel The Vine.

Start your vacation relaxed and discover the town of Funchal, which is the starting point for your hikes of the next days. Stroll leisurely along the harbor and the Avenida do Mar, past picturesque houses and magnificent flower gardens to the fortress of Sao Tiago. If you do not take advantage of the dinner at the hotel today (optional), we recommend the restaurant "Dos Combatentes" (optional) - it is one of the best and most popular restaurants among the locals. Let your first day of vacation end here.

1 night stay incl. breakfast in Funchal, Madeira

After you have strengthened yourself by the rich breakfast in your hotel, your full day hike to the 25 springs and the Risco waterfall begins. Your starting point is the Paul da Serra plateau. From here you will walk to the Rabaçal guesthouse and on to the Risco waterfall. Moss-covered paths and spreading erica trees make today's surroundings. After about an hour, you will hear a mysterious rushing sound from far away. After a short while, the unforgettable view of the spectacular Risco waterfall will unfold before you. The cascades immerse the surroundings in a mystical paradise, inviting you to take a short break.

Even if the paths become a bit narrower in the middle and the slope drops steeply in places on the left, you will always be able to enjoy beautiful views of the densely forested valley of the Ribera da Janela. After crossing one of numerous bridges, you will soon reach the place where numerous smaller waterfalls pour out - the 25 springs. Again, take some time to enjoy the beauty and uniqueness of the landscape.

Hike: about 4 hours / about 10 km

Level of difficulty: medium

Overnight stay with breakfast in Funchal, Madeira

Along the Levada dos Maroços theme trail, you will cross intensely scented pine and eucalyptus forests, past terraced fields overlooking the sea and the town of Machico. Join us today for a wonderful journey of discovery of Madeira's cultures and traditions. During your hike, observe the daily hustle and bustle of the locals as they tend to the animals on their terraces and farms - a typical touch of the island's traditional ambiance. With a little luck, you can buy fresh fruit on the way.

Hike: approx. 3 hours / approx. 6 km

Level of difficulty: easy

Overnight stay with breakfast in Funchal, Madeira

Enjoy a rich breakfast at the hotel before spending the day according to your preferences. You want to relax and be pampered in the spa area of The Vines? Enjoy a relaxing massage, find relaxation in the whirlpool or just let your soul dangle by the pool.

A leisurely stroll through Funchal is also recommended. Stroll along the harbor or through the small streets and alleys, where numerous small stores offer the perfect souvenirs for home.

1 night incl. breakfast in Funchal, Madeira

Today is time to put your hiking boots back on and set off on an adventurous tour of Madeira. You will get to know the northeastern region of Referta & Castelejo on man-made hiking trails created long ago. These will lead you time and time again to viewpoints that offer beautiful panoramas with little villages on the north coast. The paths are lined with holly, barbusano and the endemic Azores laurel.

The landscape here is different from other areas of Madeira. Despite the challenging terrain, local farmers have overcome the odds to cultivate their fields. Get a glimpse of the skilled craftsmanship and traditional farm work that still exists today.

Hike: about 2 hours / about 5 km

Level of difficulty: easy

Overnight stay with breakfast in Funchal, Madeira

Take advantage of the day to discover Funchal and Madeira as you wish. Within walking distance from the hotel are museums, monuments and restaurants. If you are a soccer fan, visit the very popular Cristiano Ronaldo Museum. Nature lovers will find an oasis of tranquility in the city garden or Santa Catarina Park. Or you can take a trip to the Câmara de Lobos, one of the oldest fishing villages on the island. Many colorful fishing boats are typical of the harbor. They are the ones responsible for catching the specialty of the island, the Espada. This place is also home to the Poncha, a drink made from freshly squeezed lemon juice, honey and sugar cane schnapps, which is offered by many little bars in Funchal that are definitely worth a visit.

Overnight stay including breakfast in Funchal, Madeira

After all the action from the past few days, you have truly earned a day off.

Today’s plans are completely up to you. Have you seen something the last few days that you would like to take a closer look at today? Or are there corners that you have not yet seen that you’d like to explore? Use your last day to peel more layers of the exciting city of Funchal.

Overnight stay including breakfast in Funchal, Madeira

Depending on the time of your return flight, you can discover more of Madeira's highlights today or just take it easy, have a final cup of coffee and enjoy the beautiful view of Funchal Bay from your hotel. Afterwards you will say goodbye to Flower Island.

itravel - For that moment.

The Vine*****, Funchal, Madeira (7 nights)

Luxury and comfort await you in one of the leading design hotels in Europe. At the hotel, a fusion restaurant with magnificent views will give you unforgettable moments. After hiking, enjoy the Vinotherapy spa, access to the gym and the rooftop terrace with an infinity pool.

The spacious rooms are individually decorated according to the four seasons. Each room has an LCD TV with in-room movies, free Wi-Fi and a laptop safe.

The rooftop restaurant serves a mix of French and Madeiran cuisine with regional products. Enjoy cocktails and snacks at the 360° bar, which will motivate you to explore the city even more.

Duration of the trip: 8 days / 7 nights

Including

• 7 nights accommodation at The Vine including breakfast in Deluxe Superior
• Transfer from / to Funchal airport
• 3 hikes with an experienced guide incl. collective transfer
• One-time handling fee
• The starting price is valid in the travel period 04.05.21 - 19.07.21 and 28.09.21 - 31.10.21

Not included

• International flights
• Meals and drinks not mentioned in the scope of services
• Excursions (sightseeing, entrance fees etc.)
• additional hikes
• tips and personal expenses
• Travel protection

Included hikes

Levada of the 25 Springs & Risco Waterfall

• Full day hike
• Tuesday and Thursday
• Departure: 9 am
• Walking time: about 4 hours / about 10 kilometers
• Difficulty: medium

Levadas dos Maroços

• Half day hike
• Wednesday morning
• Departure: 9 am
• Walking time: about 3 hours / about 6 kilometers
• Difficulty: easy

Referta and Castelejo

• Half day hike
• Thursday and Sunday
• Departure: 9 am
• Walking time: about 2 hours / about 5 kilometers
• Difficulty: easy

All hikes including collective transfer from / to hotel in Funchal

Notes

• Always prepare well for the hikes and bring:
  • rain, cold as well as sun protection
  • sturdy shoes
  • food and drinks
  • flashlight (some hikes lead through tunnels)