Madeira road trip: 8 days of mountains, levadas and the spectacular west coast

Day 1: Departure to Funchal

You will pick up your rental car at Funchal airport and drive to Hotel Belmond Reid for a three-night stay, a hotel with a stunning location on the Madeira coast and breathtaking sea views.

Day 2: Funchal

For centuries, Funchal has been the economic center and capital of Madeira, a city resembling a giant amphitheater built against the mountain slopes. Thanks to the small size of the center, it is cozy and pleasant to stroll around, relax on a terrace, shop and do some sightseeing. A descent from a 'Tobogan', a sled made of wood and reeds, is an experience that you cannot miss. You will take the cable car up to Monte and slide down the slope through the streets of Funchal, pushed by two carreiros. To end this experience nicely, you will go to the Old Blandy wine lodge for a tasting.

Day 3: The Pico do Arieiro and the Pico Ruivo: life above the clouds

On the schedule today are the belvederes of Pico dos Barcelos and Eira do Serrado, with breathtaking views including the village of Curral das Freiras located in the volcanic valley. The most impressive excursion is the one to the Pico do Arieiro. The summit at 1818 metres is the starting point of a spectacular mountain hike for advanced climbers without fear of heights to the Pico Ruivo at 1862 metres. The trip there and back will take about six hours. The icing on the cake however will be a picnic above the clouds. Literally. At the top, a delicious picnic basket will be waiting for you.

Day 4: Câmara de Lobos - Ponta do Sol

Câmara de Lobos, Madeira's oldest fishing village has a picturesque beach where traditional colourful boats are still moored. The place owes its name to the monk seals that used to live here, the lobos, but have now completely disappeared. However, there is still a lot of peixe espada, the black swordfish, which is traditionally fished and considered a delicacy. You'll then continue towards Hotel Quinta Jardins do Lago to stay for four nights.

Day 5: A day at sea

With Funchal as a starting point, you will spend a day of fishing or dolphin spotting at sea. A private boat and skipper are provided to make this experience unforgettable. The amazing waves, the pleasant water temperature and the mild climate provide optimal conditions.

Day 6: The West Coast

You will travel along the West Coast to Calheta, where modern art becomes one with the beautiful nature. From the Casa das Mudas Arts Center, on the edge of a cliff, there is a beautiful view and an impressive collection of modern art. You will then go further north, to Porto Moniz, one of the oldest villages in Madeira on a spectacular rocky coastline, full of picturesque rock islands where there are natural lakes in which you can swim. Then, on to São Vicente, known for its whitewashed houses, set against the hillside, connected by narrow alleys and steep steps, and return to the hotel via Ribeira Brava.

Day 7: The famous levadas

You will explore the Parque Natural de Madeira, which covers no less than two thirds of the island's surface. Along the beautiful levadas, former irrigation canals, you can marvel at the inland of Madeira, including Rabaçal and the plateau of Paúl da Serra to the west or Ribeiro Frio to the east.

Day 8: Return home

You will return your rental car at Funchal airport and fly back to Brussels.

Frequently asked questions about this Madeira road trip

What is the best travel period for Madeira?

Madeira enjoys a mild subtropical climate and is pleasant all year round. April to June and September to October are ideal for hiking and mountain excursions.

Do you need a rental car for this trip?

Yes. Many viewpoints, hiking routes and villages are spread across the island. A rental car makes it easy to reach places such as Pico do Arieiro, Porto Moniz and Ribeira Brava.

What makes this trip different from other Madeira itineraries?

This itinerary focuses on Madeira’s mountains and west coast. You explore natural pools, mountain peaks and dramatic coastal scenery. Less city, more nature and panoramic landscapes.

Is this trip suitable for hikers?

Yes. Madeira is famous for its levada walks along historic irrigation channels. Some routes are easy and accessible, while others, such as those around Pico do Arieiro, are more challenging.