Madeira walking holidays

One package, loads of benefits One package, loads of benefits

Walk this way to dreamy active holidays!

Get set to explore with our wonderful walking holidays. If those boots are made for walking, you’d better pack them as part of your 22kg baggage included with Jet2holidays. And you can have a rest while we take you to and from your fantastic hotel, with transfers as part of your package. All you’ve got to do is decide on the destination from our amazing range.

Gorgeous destinations
Wander through beaches, historical sites and vast scenery
Choice of hotels for all
Pick from a superb range of 3 to 5-star properties
Go at your own pace
Concentrate on enjoying a little 'you' time
Travel with friends, family or club
Sort out your holiday for any group size

Walking in Madeira highlights

Explore Madeira’s famous levadas…

Hiking the lovely levadas is a must-do on any walking holiday in Madeira. Levada in Portuguese means ‘to carry’ and that’s exactly what these man-made channels do – carry water from the north to the south of the island! Many routes wind through UNESCO-protected laurel forests, offering lush scenery and peaceful, scenic trails.

Discover authentic towns and villages

For a taste of traditional Madeira, head to the north coast where life moves at a gentler pace. Visit Santana for its charming, thatched houses or Porto Moniz for natural pools and sea views. Tuck into fresh seafood, from grilled limpets to espada (black scabbardfish) with banana.

Marvel at dramatic landscapes…

Madeira’s volcanic origins have shaped a truly spectacular island, from soaring peaks and deep valleys to rugged cliffs plunging into the Atlantic. Discover tumbling waterfalls, misty mountains and coastal viewpoints, where seabirds fly overhead and, if you’re lucky, dolphins can be spotted offshore.

When to visit

Madeira’s sub-tropical climate makes it ideal for year-round walking, with warm summers and a wetter season from December to February. Spring and autumn offer perfect conditions underfoot, while countryside trails stay peaceful and uncrowded. Why not time your trip for Madeira Carnival in March or the Funchal Flower Festival in May?

What are you looking for in a walking holiday?

Trails on your doorstep

Trails on your doorstep

  • Step straight outside and onto Madeira’s famous levadas and coastal paths. Ideal for keen walkers, these stays put scenic routes within easy reach, so you can maximise time exploring.

    • Great public transport links

    Great public transport links

  • Stay in or around Funchal for easy access to buses and connections across the island. Perfect for flexible walking holidays without a car, linking you to a variety of trailheads.

    • Local feel

    Local feel

  • Choose smaller towns and villages for an authentic Madeiran experience. Enjoy peaceful surroundings, traditional eateries and quiet trails, where walking routes reveal everyday island life and unspoilt landscapes.

    • Luxury retreats

    Luxury retreats

  • Unwind in style after a day on the trails. Think elegant hotels with spa facilities, sea views and fine dining – perfect for relaxing tired legs and recharging before your next walk.

    • PR8 Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço
    • PR 9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde
    • PR 7 Levada do Moinho
    • PR 10 – Levado do Furado

    PR8 Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço


    This 3km trail (6km return) explores Madeira’s wild eastern tip, with sweeping views over both coasts. The moderately challenging Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço winds across a volcanic peninsula of basalt cliffs and open landscapes. Look out for seabirds and, with luck, monk seals, before a refreshing swim at Cais do Sardinha.

    Location: East Coast

    Distance: 3km (6km round trip)

    Estimated time: 2 hours 30 mins

    Max. altitude: 126m

    Min. altitude: 23m

    Difficulty: Moderate

    Recommended hotel: Dreams Madeira Resort Spa & Marina

    PR 9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde


    Levada do Caldeirão Verde is a rewarding 8.7km trail (each way) through Madeira’s lush interior. Starting at Queimadas, it winds through UNESCO-protected laurel forest, past tunnels and dramatic cliffs, to a stunning waterfall lagoon. It’s a longer but unforgettable walk, with the option to continue or simply retrace your steps.

    Location: North Coast

    Distance: 8.7km (17.4km round trip)

    Duration: 6 hours 30 mins

    Max. altitude: 1020m

    Min. altitude: 872m

    Difficulty: Moderate

    Recommended hotel: Quinta do Furao

    PR 7 Levada do Moinho


    This 10.5km trail takes around 3.5 hours, following the historic Levada do Moinho between Porto Moniz and Calheta. Passing old water mill ruins, it offers a glimpse into Madeira’s past. Walk through lush laurel forest and peaceful countryside, with scenic irrigation channels and green valleys accompanying you along the way.

    Location: North Coast

    Distance: 10.5km

    Duration: 3 hours 30 mins

    Max. altitude: 940m

    Min. altitude: 504m

    Difficulty: Moderate

    Recommended hotel: Aqua Natura Bay

    PR 10 – Levado do Furado


    Levada do Furado is a beautiful 11km, five-hour walk starting in Ribeiro Frio, following one of Madeira’s oldest levadas through lush Laurissilva forest. Expect sweeping valley views, rich greenery and dramatic landscapes, including Penha d’Águia. A tougher optional route climbs via Pico do Suna before rejoining the trail towards Portela viewpoint.

    Location: North Coast

    Distance: 11km

    Duration: 5 hours

    Max. altitude: 880m

    Min. altitude: 645m

    Difficulty: Moderate

    Recommended hotel: PortoBay Serra Golf

    More walking holiday inspiration on the handy Jet2Blog...


    From levada trails and laurel forests to dramatic coastal hikes, you’ll find everything you need and about walking holidays in Madeira on the handy Jet2Blog.

    The best hiking trails in Madeira Top 10 hiking routes in Europe Discover a different side of Madeira View all blog articles

    Top walking excursions

    Rabacal Levada Walk

    Rabacal Levada Walk explores one of Madeira’s most beautiful valleys, with lush Laurissilva forest, waterfalls and dramatic scenery. Expect tunnels, viewpoints and peaceful nature. A must-do route for walkers seeking iconic levada experiences and unforgettable island landscapes in a stunning setting

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    Levada do Norte Walk

    One of Madeira’s longest levadas, running along the sunny south coast. Enjoy gentle paths, rural villages, vineyards and sea views. It’s a great choice for relaxed walking, with easy access and varied scenery throughout route.

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    Levada do Serra do Faial

    A scenic walk through Madeira’s green heart, with forest paths, mountain views and peaceful surroundings. Linking areas near Ribeiro Frio and Portela, it’s ideal for nature lovers seeking quiet trails and beautiful island scenery.

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    FAQs

    How fit do I need to be for a walking holiday?

    Most walking holidays suit a moderate fitness level. Expect some hills and longer days, but routes can be chosen to match your pace. Regular walking beforehand helps you get the most from the experience.

    What do I need to take on a walking trip?

    Comfortable walking shoes, light layers, waterproofs, sun protection and a small daypack are essential. A reusable water bottle and snacks are useful for longer trails, plus a camera for those unforgettable views along the way.

    How can I book walking excursions?

    Walking excursions can be booked through Jet2experiences. Many routes are guided, offering added insight, or you can choose self-guided options for more flexibility.

    Where is best for beginners?

    Gentle levada walks around Funchal and the south coast are ideal for beginners. Well-marked, mostly flat and scenic, they offer an easy introduction to Madeira’s landscapes without too much challenge.

    When is the best time to go on a walking holiday?

    Madeira is great year-round thanks to its mild climate. Spring and autumn are especially popular, offering comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds and ideal conditions for exploring the island’s varied walking trails.
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