Eastern Madeira

8 Days Starting and ending in Funchal, Portugal

Visiting: Funchal, Ponta de São Lourenço, Madeira

Tour operator:

Ramble Worldwide

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

10 - 16

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

12-99

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Hiking, Sightseeing

From: $1499 $1457 (USD) Tourhub's Discount: -$43

NB: Prices correct on 17-Mar-2025 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the Eastern Madeira walking tour, where you'll explore the breathtaking landscapes of Portugal's stunning island. Begin your journey in Funchal, staying at the charming Hotel do Carmo, perfectly situated for easy access to Madeira's natural wonders. Traverse the intricate Levada walks, culminating in Monte with its panoramic views over Funchal. Experience the dramatic cliffs and turquoise seas from the Boca do Risco pass to Porto da Cruz, and discover the unique, arid landscape of the eastern peninsula. Hike from Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruivo, Madeira's highest peak, and walk through the lush laurisilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. With breakfast and dinner included most days, and a free day for personal exploration, this tour offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation amidst Madeira's captivating scenery.

Highlights

  • Explore Madeira's intricate Levada walks, finishing in Monte with panoramic views over Funchal.

  • Experience the dramatic cliffs and turquoise sea views from the Boca do Risco pass to Porto da Cruz.

  • Discover the unique, arid landscape of the eastern peninsula with its colorful igneous rock formations.

  • Hike from Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruivo, Madeira's highest mountain, with breathtaking views above the clouds.

  • Walk through the lush laurisilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its unique flora and fauna.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Welcome to Funchal

Location: Funchal

Accommodation Name: Hotel do Carmo

Meals Included: Dinner

On arrival in Funchal Airport, transfer by private coach to your hotel in the centre of Funchal, ready for your adventurous week ahead.

Day 2 : Monte

Location: Funchal

Accommodation Name: Hotel do Carmo

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

During your time in Madeira, you will explore the island through a variety of walks which may include one or more of the following. Some walks may be substituted due to weather conditions, or changes beyond our control.

Walks

Distance: 8.6 miles


Time: 4.5 hours


Ascent: 565


Descent: 517


A great introductory to Madeira’s intricated Levada walks. Finish 550m above Funchal in Monte, home to an exotic tropical garden.  Enjoy this cooler climate and tranquil atmosphere, with wonderful panoramic views over Funchal. miles

Day 3 : North Coast Path

Location: Funchal

Accommodation Name: Hotel do Carmo

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner


Walks

Distance: 7.7 miles


Time: 5 hours


Ascent: 855


Descent: 1065


From the Caniçal tunnel we cross terraces, slowly rising to the Boca do Risco pass, where suddenly the turquoise sea opens up in front of us several hundred metres below. The dramatic cliffs rise from the sea below, what a view! You'll follow a narrow winding cliff path to the pretty village of Porto da Cruz where there will be time for refreshments or maybe take a dip in the sea water pools by the beach before returning to Funchal. A great way to conclude a fantastic day! miles

Day 4 : Ponta de São Lourenço

Location: Ponta de São Lourenço

Accommodation Name: Hotel do Carmo

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner


Walks

Distance: 4.6 miles


Time: 4-5 hours


Ascent: 535


Descent: 535


The peninsula at the far eastern end of the island is utterly different from anywhere else on Madeira. Here there is bare eroded igneous rock with wonderful unique colour formations. It's an arid, barren, and windswept landscape, yet the vistas spanning the rocky terrain and tracing the cliff edges are nothing short of otherworldly. The trail on this peninsula is an out-and-back journey, making it an ideal choice for a more relaxed day, particularly when the mountainous regions might be rain-soaked. miles

Day 5 : The Big Peaks

Location: Madeira

Accommodation Name: Hotel do Carmo

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner


Walks

Distance: 4.5 miles


Time: 5.5 hours


Ascent: 700


Descent: 920


This is an extraordinary walk, many regard it as one of the most remarkable day hikes you can experience! Starting at Pico Arieiro, standing at over 1800m, you'll wind our way through spectacular rock formations to Pico Ruivo, Madeira's highest mountain, passing through several tunnels on the way. On some fortunate days, you'll find yourself walking above a sea of clouds, with the islands dramatic peaks piercing through the mist and the vast expanse of the Atlantic stretching out beyond. When you reach Pico Ruivo, look back towards Pico Arieiro and Picos das Torres, creating a truly awe-inspiring vista.

Please be aware that this walk is above grade 5, more suitable for walking at the higher end of grade 6 and a strong head for heights is needed. Please note that this walk is not always possible as the paths are exposed and prone to damage and closures. Sometimes the path is not suitable to walk due to weather conditions too. miles

Day 6 : Free day

Location: Funchal

Accommodation Name: Hotel do Carmo

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

There will be a rest day offered during the week for personal exploration. There are so many walking options to be considered, or maybe immerse yourself in culture by visiting other areas of Madeira.Funchal is an enjoyable place to stroll around in and take it easy. Perhaps enjoy some souvenir shopping or explore some of its delightful restaurants and cafes for lunch!It is possible to visit some of Madeira’s famous gardens. Dolphin and whale watching tours are available. Or maybe sit back and enjoy the hotel's swimming pool and bar area!

Day 7 : Ribeiro Frio to Portela

Location: Madeira

Accommodation Name: Hotel do Carmo

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner


Walks

Distance: 8.3 miles


Time: 4-5 hours


Ascent: 635


Descent: 930


This is a beautiful and very enjoyable levada walk. There are spectacular views towards the central mountains from Balcoes and down to the north coast by Porto da Cruz. 

This scenic route meanders through a lush laurisilva forest, a botanical wonder recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Within this unique ecosystem, you'll encounter a remarkable assortment of plants and animals, many of which are found nowhere else in the world. In fact, Madeira boasts the world's most impeccably preserved example of this ancient forest, making this walk a truly one-of-a-kind and enchanting experience. miles

Day 8 : Farewell

Location: Funchal

Meals Included: Breakfast

It’s time to say farewell to Madeira. Take a short transfer to Funchal airport for your return flight to the UK.

What's Included

  • Meals

    The tour includes breakfast and dinner on most days, with breakfast provided on the last day.

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is provided at Hotel do Carmo for the duration of the tour.

  • Local Transfers

    Expect local transfers to and from hiking locations as part of the itinerary.

What's Not Included

  • Lunch

    Lunch is not included in the tour package.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and should be arranged separately by the traveler.

  • Personal Expenses

    Any personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, or activities not listed in the itinerary are not included.

Mode of Transport

Transportation details are not provided in the tour description, but expect local transfers to and from hiking locations as part of the itinerary.

Accommodation

Stay at the charming Hotel do Carmo, offering comfortable accommodations throughout your week-long adventure in Madeira. Enjoy the convenience of a central location in Funchal, with easy access to the island's stunning landscapes and vibrant culture.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the Eastern Madeira tour?

    The tour provides accommodation at the Hotel do Carmo, which offers comfortable accommodations throughout the week-long adventure in Madeira. The hotel is centrally located in Funchal, providing easy access to the island's landscapes and culture.

  • Are meals included in the Eastern Madeira tour package?

    Yes, the tour includes breakfast and dinner on most days, with breakfast provided on the last day. However, lunch is not included in the tour package.

  • What should I expect on the first day of the Eastern Madeira tour?

    On the first day, you will arrive at Funchal Airport and be transferred by private coach to your hotel in the center of Funchal, where you will prepare for the adventurous week ahead.

  • Is there a rest day included in the Eastern Madeira tour itinerary?

    Yes, there is a rest day included during the week for personal exploration. You can choose to explore more walking options, visit other areas of Madeira, enjoy Funchal, or participate in activities like dolphin and whale watching.

  • What kind of landscapes can I expect to see during the Eastern Madeira tour?

    During the tour, you will experience a variety of landscapes including intricate Levada walks, dramatic cliffs with turquoise sea views, the unique arid landscape of the eastern peninsula with colorful igneous rock formations, and lush laurisilva forests, which are a UNESCO World Heritage site.

  • What is the highlight of the hike from Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruivo?

    The hike from Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruivo is considered one of the most remarkable day hikes, offering breathtaking views above the clouds, spectacular rock formations, and the chance to walk through several tunnels. On clear days, you can see the dramatic peaks piercing through the mist and the vast Atlantic Ocean.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Once you have paid your deposit, and all of the elements of your holiday are confirmed, we will provide a Confirmation of Booking and Invoice Pack. The confirmation of booking confirms your holiday arrangements, any special requests, and the balance due date. Please take the time to check this document carefully and please let us know immediately if there are any inaccuracies. As part of this pack, you’ll also receive a Holiday Information Sheet with more detail about your holiday. We will send reminder(s) for any missing details, which are important for your booking, so please update us as soon as you can. A MONTH BEFORE DEPARTURE Now’s the time to really start looking forward to your holiday, and 3-4 weeks before departure we’ll send out any updated information relating to your trip, including any local information. If you have any questions regarding your holiday arrangements, please get in touch with us. THREE WEEKS BEFORE DEPARTURE We aim to send out your Travel Documents and joining instructions 3 weeks before departure, please take the time to read through these documents and note your up-to-date flight schedules (if/where relevant), check-in times, and luggage allowance.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    You may be able to change your dates. Please refer to Section 5 of our Booking Conditions for more details or message us for assistance. Note that charges and limitations may apply.

  • Do I need to have travel insurance?

    It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover. The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked. Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number. In the event that you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term. If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by Ramble Worldwide staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you being unable to demonstrate that you are insured.

Reviews of this operator

Avram Taylor (Google Reviewer)  

I went on the Dobbiaco...

25-Jul-2024

I went on the Dobbiaco and the Tre Cime holiday in July 2024. This was an excellent holiday overall. The walks are very well designed and the scenery is beautiful. There are frequent rest points during the walks and, where possible, people can choose to stop and wait or leave the walks. There is a good variety of walks (lakes, forests and mountains) and the walk leader was excellent. I would recommend this holiday for those who want to see some of the most stunning scenery in the Dolomites and also want to do some enjoyable walking without the demands of the higher grade walks in the region.

Helen Thomas (Google Reviewer)  

My first Winter Adventure, snowshoeing...

07-Feb-2023

My first Winter Adventure, snowshoeing in Bach , Austria and will not be my last! The holiday exceeded my expectations from day 1! Everything was well organised, walks and scenery fabulous, hotel comfortable with a homely feel. I honestly cannot fault anything. Our walk leader Tania was excellent and went above and beyond what was expected. I am already looking towards booking another snowshoe holiday maybe in another location so I have a comparison. Overall an excellent experience and good value. 👌

Diane W (Google Reviewer)  

Excellent hotel, food, walks, leader...

24-Sep-2023

Excellent hotel, food, walks, leader and fellow walkers. Could not find any fault at all and would thoroughly recommend this holiday in Catalonia.

David Bays (Google Reviewer)  

This holiday is in beautiful,...

03-Nov-2023

This holiday is in beautiful, pristine country, with well-marked trails. Some steep ascents and rocky paths, but rewarding views and flora and fauna. An excellent hotel in a lovely stone village. One for seasoned walkers, this fully deserves a five star rating.

Martin Plaut (Google Reviewer)  

The Oman walking holiday is...

05-Feb-2024

The Oman walking holiday is excellent! Wonderful scenery, great drivers and lovely people. We had a real welcome from everyone we met.

Judith Hible (Google Reviewer)  

Once you're safely in your...

27-Aug-2024

Once you're safely in your seat on the 'plane - you can relax. Ramble Worldwide will take care of everything else.

Elizabeth Smith (Google Reviewer)  

Lake Como trip (level 2)...

22-Jun-2024

Lake Como trip (level 2) was outstanding. Our leader Elaine was excellent and planned our days with lovely surprises along the way. The scenery was outstanding, stunning walks with variation in the views, lovely restaurants, delicious food, comfortable accommodation. The boat rides across the lake were amazing. The villas and their gardens stunning. The group was small, and we enjoyed each other's company. One fantastic trip.

Phil Chadwick (Google Reviewer)  

I had a fantastic week...

07-Jan-2024

I had a fantastic week on the High in the Alpujarras holiday over New Year. It was a really well-planned week with fantastic routes and a great leader. It far exceeded my expectations, which were already high. Probably helped by a nice group of people and great weather The New Year celebrations in the hotel were fantastic. Should have packed a dinner jacket :)

1 Select your preferred date

Monday - Monday

Sep 15, 2025 - Sep 22, 2025
$1603 $1557 (USD)

Tourhub's Discount: -$46 (USD)

Monday - Monday

Oct 06, 2025 - Oct 13, 2025
$1538 $1494 (USD)

Tourhub's Discount: -$44 (USD)

Monday - Monday

Nov 10, 2025 - Nov 17, 2025
$1499 $1457 (USD)

Tourhub's Discount: -$43 (USD)

Saturday - Saturday

Dec 27, 2025 - Jan 03, 2026
$2159 $2098 (USD)

Tourhub's Discount: -$62 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Ramble Worldwide requires a minimum deposit of 350 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of ramble worldwide charges.

    Up to 71 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 42 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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