Madeira is a beautiful volcanic Portuguese island in the Atlantic, located west of Morocco. Madeira is often called “the island of eternal spring,” because it has a warm, mild climate, which attracts visitors during the whole year. Many people think of Madeira as just a sunny beach destination for older tourists, but the island has so much more to offer! While it’s true that the island gets plenty of sunshine, don’t expect a typical beach vacation. Only some coastal areas are suitable for swimming, and the water tends to be cold. The real treasure of Madeira lies in its stunning beauty, which is not just about the beaches but its diverse landscapes.
Madeira is small, but its landscapes are incredibly different. Here you’ll find everything from lush green forests and rugged mountains to windy coastal cliffs. Madeira’s climate varies a lot depending on where you are. The mountains in the center trap clouds, creating different weather on each side of the island. The south side, especially around the capital, Funchal, is warmer, with less rain and wind. So when you move around the island, in one day you can experience sun, misty clouds clinging to the mountain slopes, and even cooler temperatures as you climb higher. In this article I will share with you some ideas on how to experience the diversity of Madeira landscapes.
Enjoy the ocean views
Let’s start with my favorite trail: Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço. This trail takes you to the most eastern point of Madeira, where you can see breathtaking views of the ocean and the rugged cliffs. Madeira is known for being lush and green, but the Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço trail is completely different. Here you will see open landscapes with dramatic cliffs and dry, almost desert-like terrain, which makes you feel like stepping onto another planet. If I had to choose only one of Madeira hikes, Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço would definitely be my choice.
Tips: Be prepared that the wind here can be very strong and there is no shade on the trail, so don’t forget to bring water, sun protection and some clothes for windy weather. Also consider that you will probably need more time for the hike to enjoy the views and take photos.
Explore Madeira’s unique levadas
Madeira is famous for its levadas — narrow irrigation channels built in the 16th century to bring water from the wet north to the drier south of the island. Nowadays levadas have trails alongside them, offering hikers a chance to explore Madeira’s natural beauty. One of the popular trails is Levada do Caldeirão Verde. This hike takes you through green forests with native plants and unique wildlife. Along the way, you’ll see peaceful waterfalls, tunnels, and Madeira’s ancient laurel trees. The trail is mostly flat and easy to follow, making it great for all hikers who want to enjoy Madeira’s lush landscapes.
Tip: waterproof shoes are a good choice for levada hikes.
Above the clouds
Looking to experience Madeira’s mountains and see the island from the highest points? Then the hike from Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo is perfect for you. This trail offers breathtaking views and a chance to explore Madeira’s rugged, elevated terrain. Fog and clouds often cover the mountains here, creating a mysterious atmosphere as you make your way through the peaks. Arriving at Pico Ruivo, you’ll be standing at 1,862 meters above sea level, with panoramic views that extend across Madeira on a clear day. The combination of cloud cover and sun can create unique amazing views, making this hike an unforgettable experience.
Tip: check the weather before taking this route, if it is too cloudy, you may miss the views.
Madeira is an island that offers something for everyone. From coastal cliffs to lush forests and misty mountain tops, the variety of landscapes is truly breathtaking. Whether you’re hiking along levadas, discovering the coastal views, or exploring the rugged peaks, you’ll experience different terrains all in one day. With its mild temperatures, stunning scenery, and diverse trails, Madeira is the perfect destination for hiking all year round.
