Wild north coast of Madeira – the island of eternal spring and the tour with probably the most panoramic views! 🌸 While grey clouds cover the sky in Central Europe, the Portuguese Atlantic island attracts visitors with its mild climate, lush nature and spectacular coastal paths. Eurohike travel specialist Johanna set off with her colleague Marco to discover these hiking paradises. Join them and experience their most beautiful moments step by step!
Madeira has always fascinated me. People call it the Hawaii of Europe, and now I finally got to see why—and it did not disappoint. I spend the first few days with my family, exploring the island’s charming towns, which are especially beautiful at this time of year with some of the Christmas lights already twinkling.
On Sunday, my family flies home, and my own week of hiking adventures begins. It’s my first time as a Team Member on Tour, and I’m a little nervous. I’ve read through the program, but I still can’t quite picture what lies ahead.
Full of anticipation, I set out with my colleague Marco on our first hike to the easternmost point of the island, the rugged São Lourenço peninsula. After a beautiful hike, we reach the highest point of the east coast, where the effort of the steep climb is truly rewarded. The view is like nothing I’ve ever seen: the sea stretching as far as the eye can see, framed by stunning, sheer cliffs. After a successful first hike, we make our way back to the hotel from the trail’s end.
Day two was definitely a highlight for me. Our route took us from Machico to Porto da Cruz, along a mix of rocky paths, and up to Boca do Risco. The mountain pass along the cliff is truly spectacular. The trails are well-maintained and not overly strenuous. We followed a coastal path that is secured, but you still need to be sure-footed, as there are some steep drops. The views were simply breathtaking: sheer cliffs, small waterfalls, and only a handful of fellow hikers sharing the trail.
Day three is full of adventure, as our hike up Pico Ruivo awaits. Moving at a good pace through the green basin, we steadily gain altitude. The path climbs steeply, over steps, rocks, and solid trails, but the views remain stunning all the way. With a mix of relief and exhilaration, we finally reach the summit—our legs burning, and the sensation of standing up here is truly overwhelming.
After a short drone flight to capture some great footage, we begin our descent. Along the way, we stop at a charming guesthouse for a bite to eat before heading to our next hotel in Santana. The last few meters are accompanied by a fairly heavy rain shower, but that’s the only rain we experience all week! After such a long day on the trail, we’re more than ready to savor some delicious espetadas and a strong Poncha to refuel and celebrate.
Day four: Today we set out along a historic footpath through the mountains, once used as a connection to the coast. It’s a charming, easy-to-walk trail. Reaching the coast, we’re greeted by a small ruin right on the beach, and perfect for a drone shot. We meander through quaint villages, greeted by many friendly locals along the way. Keeping a steady pace, we make our way toward Levada do Rei, an optional route we were eager to explore. Once there, we follow the level paths for about an hour, winding gently into the heart of the Levada. Our efforts are rewarded with a small but enchanting waterfall. After snapping a few photos and soaking in a moment of peaceful calm, we retrace our steps back to the pickup point, where our driver is already waiting.
Day five: Today’s stage takes us to Fanal. For the first few kilometers, we were completely alone—no tourists or fellow hikers in sight. As we reached Fanal, we joined a more frequented trail, popular with many visitors. From there, the path leads the final few kilometers to the mystical forest. The atmosphere was simply breathtaking. Mist weaves through the trees, giving the forest a magical, otherworldly glow. After a short circular walk in Fanal, we decide to head back to the transfer waiting to take us onward.
Day six, the final day. Our legs are very heavy, but our motivation remains high. Today’s adventure is a loop hike in Porto Moniz. We start with an ascent to the Church of Santo, then descend along well-marked paths toward the natural swimming pools by the sea. Dramatic cliffs rise from the coastline, deserted beaches stretch out below, and breathtaking ocean views unfold as far as the eye can see. When we finally return to the hotel, it’s almost hard to believe—we’ve completed six hikes in six days. A wonderful sense of accomplishment washes over us, knowing we made it through every step.
It’s hard for me to choose just one “favorite spot.” Almost every place I visited charmed me in some way—every house, garden, and plantation has its own unique appeal. Still, if I had to choose, it would be this little gem (day two, along the north coast).
