Paul da Serra

This is a backpacking guide for hiking the island of Madeira, Portugal in 8-10 days. The island, located 1000 kilometers from Portugal in the Atlantic ocean, is often referred to as the Hawaii of Europe with its rough interior mountains and steep cliffs. The route includes all the highlights of the island including all it's types of flora: from the wet coastal forests in the north, the magical Fanal forest up the plateau, some of the tallest waterfalls, the tallest peaks and the rough coastal cliffs. The hike passes through dense rain forests, across the arid peaks and through several tunnels of the island famous water canals (levadas). What this guide includes: - Itinerary with flexible route for different lengths and difficulty, distances, best overnight (camping) options and other useful waypoints; - custom Google Maps with all the important locations (official campsites, grocery stores, overnight options, water sources, trails and viewpoints); - gpx-tracks of all the stages. - all the practical information: how to get there, when to go, trail conditions, weather, geography and more. Get an impression of the hike on YouTube/harmenhoek. Note, this route is not the Madeira Island Ultra Trail (MIUT), but one optimized for hiking.

Welcome to your ultimate guide to an unforgettable road trip across Madeira, a lush and mountainous island in the Atlantic Ocean. Known for its dramatic landscapes, picturesque coastal towns, and rich cultural heritage, Madeira offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation This guide will take you through winding mountain roads, charming villages, and breathtaking viewpoints, ensuring you experience the best of what this Portuguese paradise has to offer. From the vibrant capital, Funchal, to the serene Laurisilva forest, get ready to discover the hidden gems and must-see attractions that make Madeira a top destination for road trip enthusiasts. This guide includes: - introductory note - places to visit (photo spots, museums and cultural venues, urban spaces, parks and natural attractions, mountain walks, beaches and others) - restaurants, coffeeshops and sweets spots Get to see more from my travels on my Instagram (@pedralexpereira) and Flickr (flickr.com/photos/pedralexpereira)

Embarking on a journey through Funchal, Madeira, where each cobblestone street tells a story and every viewpoint reveals a breathtaking panorama. Join us as your guides to this charming city, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge. From the vibrant Mercado dos Lavradores to the lush landscapes of the Botanical Garden, we'll uncover the hidden gems and share the local flavors that make Funchal an unforgettable destination. This is a super compact itinerary that ensures you won't miss a beat. If you find yourself with more days in this island haven, we highly recommend spreading out these gems across your itinerary. Take your time to savor the vibrant market vibes, linger in the serene Botanical Garden, and perhaps indulge in the rhythmic waves of the beach or a refreshing dip in a natural pool. Funchal is a city that unfolds its charms leisurely, and with a little extra time, you can truly immerse yourself in its beauty and embrace the laid-back island pace. Let's navigate this island paradise together!