Multi-activity holiday in Madeira

After breakfast, we'll set off by kayak to explore the coast of Cabo Girao, discovering the stunning coves and caves nestled in the cliffs of the area, accompanied by your guide. We'll return to Machico in the late morning for lunch (at your own expense), and then enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.

We start the day with a short transfer to the Paul da Serra plateau at an altitude of 1,290 meters.

We are at the mouth of the longest valley, the Ribeira da Janela, stretching 16 kilometers. Here, two colors predominate: the lush green of the ancient Laurisilva forest that blankets the mountains, and the blue of the sky and ocean. At this altitude, heather, which can reach heights of 6 meters, dominates the surrounding landscape. The trees form a dark, humid undergrowth that encourages the growth of ferns, mosses, fungi, and the endemic Madeira blueberry. This is a prime spot for observing the Madeira goldcrest and the Trocaz pigeon, both endemic species.

We reach the Rabaçal forest house and then head to Risco to admire the 100-meter-high waterfall. We continue to 25 Fontes, where springs gush forth through the rocks, giving this levada its name. On the return, we pass through an 800-meter-long tunnel, emerging onto the southern slope and its eucalyptus forest.

Free day to visit Funchal.

Optional whale and dolphin watching excursion: Early in the morning, we travel to the village of Calheta to embark on a boat trip. Madeira Island is one of the best places in the world for whale and dolphin watching. The boat trip lasts at least 2 hours. The goal is to take us to see as many species as possible and to enjoy a friendly and respectful atmosphere with the animals!

The rest of the day is free.

Today, we're heading towards the Picos (1,810 m) for a high-altitude hike, certainly the most spectacular of our stay!

On foot, we reach Pico Ruivo, Madeira's highest point at 1,861 m. This summit takes its name from the color of its pyroclastic rock, which comes from the scoria and lapilli ejected by volcanic eruptions. From Pico Ruivo, we admire the entire island: the wild, green valleys of the north coast, the Caldeirão Verde valley with São Jorge and Santana, Porto da Cruz and Punta del Aquila, as well as Punta de São Lourenço winding its way through the sea.

On our way back to our accommodation, we stopped in Santana to admire the typical houses. It's also possible to take the Rocha de Navio cable car (opening times vary considerably - approximate price €5 per person).

After breakfast and a short transfer to Camacha, we hop on our bikes for an easy 3-hour ride (approx. 20 km to cover).

We follow the Serra do Faial levada for a pleasant walk through the island's green forest towards Santo da Serra. After a short stop, we descend to the Portela viewpoint where we are greeted by one of the most beautiful views on the island's north coast.

At the end of the activity, a vehicle takes us back to Machico where we enjoy a free afternoon.

We can then enjoy the hotel pool, the nearby beach, or even visit the rum distillery (one of the last in operation on the island, located in Porto da Cruz (round trip taxi at your expense).

Located at the easternmost tip of Madeira Island, the São Lourenço peninsula, a nature reserve since 1982, boasts a unique landscape, quite different from the rest of the island, with stunning rock formations, diverse endemic plants, and calm, crystal-clear waters. This location therefore offers ideal conditions for coasteering.

Coasteering in Madeira involves exploring the coastline through walking, swimming, climbing, and jumping—reminiscent of childhood activities, but with proper equipment and under the guidance of professionals. It's an activity suitable for all ages (from 10 years old and up), from the most timid to the most adventurous, as it adapts to each individual's skill level. Jumps range from 1 meter to 10 meters, all optional.

After the picnic, we set off on a round-trip hike to discover the Sao Lourenço peninsula from the landward side.

It is possible to walk only the outward journey. Once you reach the end and before turning back, you will have the option of kayaking for an hour (allow €10/person for 1 hour) and then returning to the starting point by boat (allow €10/person).

End of stay after breakfast. Transfer* to the airport at your leisure, according to your flight schedule.

*Transfer included if you booked the flights with us.