madeira
mountains, waterfalls + wine tastings (6 Days)
Deemed the Hawaii of Europe, this small group trip for solo travellers will take you through Madeira's landscapes, from forests and majestic mountains to charming coastal towns and scenic Levada walks, exploring the must-sees and hidden local gems of this enchanting island in the North Atlantic Ocean.
Funchal, Santana + Porto Moniz
From savouring local flavours, taking in breathtaking views + adventuring through nature—this trip has it all!
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS:
​
-
Scenic hikes through the forests and along coastal cliffs.
-
Relaxing dips in natural lava pools with crystal-clear waters.
-
Discovering hidden gems in quaint villages with colourful, traditional houses.
-
Enjoying the island’s markets, culture and welcoming vibe.
-
​Foodie delights with wine tastings and local eats that capture the essence of Madeira.
the plan
DAY 1 | Madeira Airport Pickup (FNC). On the drive, get an intro the island from your driver who will tell you the stories through the eyes of a local.
​
Hotel: Quintinha São João Hotel
​
DAY 2 | Funchal + Pico Dos Barcelos | Stroll across Funchal, exploring the island's capital starting at the local market. Feel a warm welcome from the flower sellers in traditional garments, stroll the fruit and vegetable stalls around the central patio and sample fruits unique and locally grown in the region. Taste various types of Madeira wine in one of the oldest traditional wine cellars (history has it, wine on the island was discovered by accident in the 15th century). Finish the morning tasting Madeira's traditional cookies, made with the best quality regional ingredients.
​
Option: visit Monte by cable car and take the famous toboggan down (about 15 Euros for the cable car and 18 Euros for the toboggan ride).
​
Have lunch at a local restaurant then spend the afternoon visiting Pico dos Barcelos, Eira do Serrado and Curral das Freiras for viewpoints, landscapes and traditions.
Pico dos Barcelos viewpoint - you'll see a large valley on one side and the calm sea bathing Madeira's south coast on the other. If you're lucky and it's a clear day, you could get a magnificent view of the Desertas Islands, a group of three small volcanic islands: Ilhéu Chão, Deserta Grande and Bugio.
Eira do Serrado - At an altitude of 1095 metres, the Eira do Serrado viewpoint offers an unobstructed view of the parish of Curral das Freiras, surrounded by the grandeur of Madeira's characteristic green mountains. Take some time to explore this lovely little town and then a free evening with your new friends.
​
​
DAY 3 | West Madeira (Porto Moniz)|
Visit the charming fishing village Camara de Lobos and head to Cabo Girao, the highest promontory in Europe. Its famous suspended glass platform (known as a skywalk) at an altitude of 580m offers unparalleled views of the highest cape in Europe.
Next we go to the ancient laurel forest of Fanal. Its alluring beauty and eerie atmosphere is set by a dense canopy of trees as you enter the forest, which will filter the light and produce a softer, more ethereal glow. It feels otherworldly with the thick layer of moss that covers the forest floor and the fog that commonly rolls through the region.
Then you'll head to Riberia de Janela for a Poncha workshop, a traditional alcoholic drink made with aguardente de cana (distilled alcohol made from sugar cane juice), honey, sugar, and either orange juice or lemon juice.
Have lunch at a local restaurant in Porto Moniz, home of the Natural Lava Pools. Free time to relax and swim in the natural pools.
After lunch, you'll head to Seixal Beach (a black sand beach) where you can swim and soak in European Hawaii.
​
​
​DAY 4 | Free day | Explore the town, relax at the beach or do a hike
​
DAY 5 | Sunrise + Santana | Early wake up at 5:45am to go to Pice do Areiro (the third highest peak on the island) for a stunning sunset above the clouds. Transfer to our hotel in Santana and free afternoon/evening.
​
Hotel: Colmo or similar
​
DAY 6 | Levada Walk 25 Fontes
Its name lives up to the number of fountains or little waterfalls that you can count on the hike. 9km round trip hike that takes you on a narrow path through the jungle and ends at a waterhole with a waterfall you can swim in.
Option to take the shuttle between the main road and the start/end of the Levada
Picnic lunch on the hike.
Group dinner back in Santana
​
DAY 7 | Departure day + sad goodbyes!
madeira wanderlust
Included
Cost:
Early bird (first 4 spots): $2199 USD
Regular: $2399 USD
Payment plans available! Email travel@origin-travels.com to save your spot with a deposit and set up installments
-Double share accommodations in 4-5 star hotels
--Private transfer with guide on arrival
-Private transfer to airport on departure
-Private transport with English speaking guide at activities
-Wine tasting
-All breakfasts + 4 lunches + 2 dinners
-Origin Travels host, pre-departure and on-trip support
-OT Know Before You Go Guide (skip the research, we do it for you)
​
Not Included
-International flights
-Insurance
-Meals and activities not mentioned
your stay
Each hotel has been selected to showcase traditional decor styles, comfort, cleanliness, and location. Accommodations are part of the experience -we've chosen places that are memorable and provide an oasis for a good night's sleep after a busy day of adventuring.