Discover Madeira: Nature, Levadas and Unique Island Experiences

Madeira combines protected nature, impressive hiking trails, volcanic landscapes and vibrant traditions within the island’s compact thematic area – without this automatically meaning short distances between all destinations. Anyone looking for a holiday apartment or holiday home should therefore first consider which experiences are to shape the holiday: tranquil nature, hikes along levadas, culture and crafts, or special days by the sea.

Laurissilva, nature park and the eastern peninsula

A defining natural experience is the Laurissilva forest, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. Madeira Natural Park combines nature conservation and nature observation with recreation and leisure. Its protected character also includes preserving rural traditions and architectural heritage, as well as areas used for agriculture and forestry. In addition to native Laurissilva forests, there are also exotic forests there.

At Madeira’s eastern tip lies Ponta de São Lourenço. It is the easternmost point of the island and forms a nine-kilometre-long peninsula. It is classified as a partial nature reserve and is home to rare plants and protected seabirds. The Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço, PR8, is a six-kilometre out-and-back trail. For all classified PR hiking trails in Madeira, it is necessary to reserve a time slot via the SIMplifica digital platform before beginning the hike. This rule is therefore just as much a part of planning the day as choosing the right starting point.

Levadas and trails through different landscapes

The Levada do Rei begins at the water treatment station in Quebradas in São Jorge and initially leads through an exotic forest. Along the way, typical agricultural landscapes of São Jorge and Santana can be observed. The trail continues to Ribeiro Bonito, a secluded natural sanctuary covered in dense vegetation typical of the Laurissilva. For hiking enthusiasts, this creates a contrast between cultivated landscapes, forest and a particularly tranquil natural area.

The Moinho de Água de São Jorge is also part of the Levada do Rei. It is the only watermill of its kind that is still in operation and is powered by the water of the Levada do Rei. When choosing accommodation in Madeira, visitors can take such different focuses into account: A holiday with hikes and landscape observation requires different day planning from a trip centred on culture, gardens and family-friendly excursions.

Volcanic caves, gardens and Madeiran culture

The Grutas de São Vicente in São Vicente were formed more than 890,000 years ago. The volcanic caves can be visited via an approximately 700-metre-long underground route. In 1996, they were among the first volcanic caves in Portugal to be opened to the public. The Centro do Vulcanismo complements the underground visit with educational and interactive elements.

The Jardim Botânico da Madeira covers approximately eight hectares, around five of which are landscaped garden areas. More than 2,000 exotic plants from all continents can be seen there. The grounds also include the Natural History Museum and a herbarium. Another destination for culture and tradition is the Madeira Theme Park in Santana. It covers seven hectares and offers attractions open to visitors that focus on Madeira’s culture and traditions. Visitors can meet artisans who work with wool, linen, Madeira embroidery and wickerwork. At the Quintinha, children can interact with several animals and take part in rural activities.

Sea, festivals and choosing the right starting point

The Piscinas Naturais do Porto Moniz are of volcanic origin. Their natural structure allows continuous access to the sea; the swimming area covers 3,800 m². The facilities mentioned include a children’s pool, a playground, changing rooms, a bar, a first-aid post, a car park and accessible entrances. For families wishing to combine an excursion with water and play opportunities, this destination therefore offers a different holiday focus from a purely hiking trip.

Nature observation at sea is also part of Madeira: In the island’s clear and calm waters, marine mammals can be observed close to the coast all year round. In Funchal, the cable car travels more than 3,200 metres between the centre and the Monte district. Culinary and cultural highlights include SAL – Festival Gastronómico da Madeira, a project intended to promote the gastronomic culture and heritage of the island region through various events and culinary routes, as well as the Madeira Wine Festival, featuring concerts, exhibitions and parades. The importance of Madeira wines shapes the culture and landscapes of Madeira.

For your further search for a suitable place in Madeira, you can choose from various destinations: Arco De São Jorge, Câmara De Lobos, Funchal, Machico, São Vicente, Prazeres, Porto Da Cruz, Madalena Do Mar, Vila Baleira, Porto Moniz, Fajã Da Ovelha, Curral Das Freiras, Serra De Água, Estreito Da Calheta, Camacha, Boaventura, Ponta Delgada, Gaula, Ponta Do Pargo, Ribeiro Frio, Campanário, Tabua, Quinta Grande, Lombada Velha, Campo De Cima, Seixal, Arco De Sao Jorge, Caniço, Ponta Do Sol, Curral Das Freiras, Jardim Do Mar, Vila Baleira, Sao Goncalo, Porto Santo, Sao Jorge, Paul Do Mar, Faial, Caniçal, Caniço, Arco Da Calheta, Madeira and Calheta. This allows you to tailor your accommodation search to your preferred mix of nature, culture, water and activities.

To the higher-level travel overview: Portugal.