With bursts of colour the tropical flora you'll spy along the trails, and lush levadas which weave from volcanic mountain tops to the floor of the valleys, Madeira is a fascinating place which offers the perfect walking holiday adventure. 

Nominally part of Portugal but actually much closer to Morocco, the Atlantic island of Madeira is enticing, exotic and endlessly surprising. This stunning island is longing to be explored, almost always within sight of the roaring Atlantic Ocean. Whether you are conquering Pico Ruivo, Madeira's highest peak, or exploring an incredible network of footpaths throughout the island, you are guaranteed to finish your day with a bica or glass of Madeira wine, while tucking into some honey cake and soaking up some sun. This is one of the many reasons why Madeira is an amazing walking holiday destination.

The Levadas, an ancient intricate network of water channels, serve as the quintessential highlight of a walking holiday in Madeira. 

These enchanting pathways offer a harmonious fusion of nature and human ingenuity. Carved into the island's rugged terrain, the Levadas wind through emerald forests, cascading waterfalls, and terraced vineyards. Each step taken along these ancient channels is a journey through time, revealing centuries of island history and engineering marvels. The gentle, meandering trails are accessible to hikers of all levels, making them an inclusive treasure for both beginners and experienced trekkers. Embracing the Levadas, one finds a serene connection with Madeira's breathtaking landscapes, creating unforgettable memories of tranquility and adventure intertwined.

Step into a perpetual springtime on Madeira, the enchanting island offering year round walking holidays. With its evergreen landscapes, diverse terrain, and a climate that remains temperate in every season, this paradise is a hiker's dream. 

Traversing ancient laurel forests, you'll feel like you've wandered into a fairy tale. Follow the Levadas, the intricate irrigation channels turned into picturesque paths, meandering through lush valleys and across misty waterfalls. Along the coast, precipitous cliffs reveal endless ocean vistas. Even in winter, you'll relish walks in pleasant sunshine. Madeira's all-season charm ensures that every day holds a new adventure, a new path to tread.

Why is Madeira such a good place for a walking holiday?

Madeira is a paradise for walking holidays. Renowned for its diverse landscapes, the island offers a unique blend of rugged coastal paths, lush forests, and dramatic mountain trails. The famous "levadas" – ancient irrigation channels – wind through breathtaking valleys and terraced hillsides, providing accessible and scenic routes for walkers of all levels.

Madeira’s mild climate ensures comfortable trekking year-round, making it an ideal destination regardless of the season. The island's diverse flora, including endemic species, adds to the enchanting experience, especially during spring when the landscape is in full bloom.

With well-maintained trails, from the challenging Pico Ruivo summit to the serene Laurisilva Forest, Madeira caters to both seasoned hikers and casual walkers.

The island's rich culture, warm hospitality, and delicious cuisine complement the outdoor adventure, making Madeira an exceptional choice for a walking holiday.

When is the best time for a walking holiday in Madeira?

The best time to visit Madeira for a walking holiday is between April and October. During these months, the island enjoys warm temperatures and long days, ideal for exploring its diverse trails. Spring, from April to June, is particularly popular as Madeira's famous flowers bloom, creating a vibrant and colourful landscape. The weather is mild, with average temperatures ranging from 17°C to 22°C, perfect for comfortable hiking.

Summer, from July to September, brings warmer temperatures, ranging from 20°C to 26°C, making it ideal for those who enjoy sunnier conditions. The trails are dry, and the sea is warm enough for a refreshing dip after a day of walking. Autumn, in October, sees slightly cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, offering a more peaceful experience. Madeira’s subtropical climate ensures enjoyable walking conditions year-round, but these months offer the best experience.

How hard is a walking holiday in Madeira?

Madeira's levadas—ancient irrigation channels—provide easy, flat routes that wind through lush forests, offering stunning views with minimal elevation. These paths are well-maintained and accessible, making them ideal for leisurely walking holiday in Madeira

For more experienced hikers, Madeira’s mountainous interior presents demanding trails, such as the Pico Ruivo and Pico do Arieiro routes. These treks involve steep climbs, rugged terrain, and dramatic elevation changes, rewarding walkers with breathtaking panoramas.