Madeira 2023e
Madeira Island 2023
Nature and hiking
Levadas are artificial watercourses used to channel water from the rainier areas in the north and center of the island to the agricultural areas in the south.
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As some of them have to cover long distances, the majority of the levadas only have a very slight gradient. Instead, they cross waterways, valleys and mountains, pass through tunnels, cross natural watercourses and also cross bridges.
Today, the levadas are mainly used for tourism in addition to transporting water. Hiking trails are signposted in many places along the paths that run alongside the water.
Hiking along the levada – has something meditative and relaxing about it.
Tips for hikes in the immediate vicinity…
to the Raposeira viewpoint.
This viewpoint offers a breathtaking view of Paul do Mar, Prazeres, Jardim do Mar and Faja da Ovelha.
An ideal vantage point for watching the sunset.
Paul do Mar
The path leads directly from the house down the Rua da Massapez road and then over the Vereda dos Zimbreiros to Paul do Mar (approx. 450 m downhill).
For those with a little more stamina, the more distant tours to Pico Ruivo and Pico do Areeiro are suitable - access is via the north side of the island
Levadas - these channels of the irrigation system on Madeira are among the longest in the world at approx.
2150 km, they are among the longest artificial systems in the world.
Also worth mentioning are the hikes from Paul da Serra down to the 25 Fuentes (25 springs) advertised in the travel guidesThe path from Faja da Ovelha to Ponta do Pargo along the Levada Nova is a picturesque route along an irrigation channel surrounded by lush vegetation. The Levada Nova takes you through green valleys and offers breathtaking views of the coast. The hike is around 10 kilometers long and takes about 3-4 hours.
It is important to wear sturdy shoes and take enough water with you, as there is no opportunity to refill water along the way.
Enjoy nature and the peace and quiet on this beautiful hiking trail!
Hike from Ponta do Pargo down to the Atlantic Ocean
Drive to the small chapel “Igreja do Lombadinha” in Ponta do Pargo. Directly opposite, the path (sign with the inscription Vereda do Pesqueiro) then leads down to the old fishermen’s path.
It is a breathtaking route that winds steeply along the coast. You will be surrounded by majestic cliffs that plunge steeply into the deep blue sea. The trail winds through lush green landscapes, past fragrant flowers and exotic plants. The views of the ocean are simply spectacular, and the fresh sea breeze will blow around your nose. It is a hike full of contrasts and beauty that will enchant your senses. Have fun exploring this beautiful hiking trail!
Note: Some fitness and trekking shoes are recommended in any case.
The island of flowers
Madeira Island is one of the oldest tourist destinations in Europe and many thousands of tourists return here every year. The Madeira archipelago is of volcanic origin. However, there has been no volcanic activity since its discovery. The main island of Madeira has a length of approx. 59 kilometres and a diameter of approx. 26 kilometres at its widest point. The small sunny island of Porto Santo is approx. 11 km long and 6 km wide.
Plants in the most beautiful colours bloom here all year round.
A day trip to Porto Santo by ferry takes about 2.5 hours and is well worthwhile. Don’t forget your swimming gear, as the nine kilometre long sandy beach of Campo de Baixo is very attractive. Many tourists and locals come to the island for this reason, all the more so as Madeira itself has hardly any sandy beaches.
The moderate climate makes this holiday destination so attractive and popular. The reason for the mild and changeable weather is the many microclimates, caused by the very mountainous landscape (3 mountains of around 1800 metres alone). As a result, the climate can vary greatly depending on the location; rain in the east and sun in the west – or vice versa – are not uncommon.
Wonderful plants, even on the roadsides, enchant every nature lover, and the island is virtually crime-free and is considered one of the safest holiday destinations in the world.
There are no limits to sporting activities such as hiking, trekking, golf, deep-sea fishing and swimming. Even mountain bikers will find their pleasure here.
Excellent wellness offers as well as very good food, from fine to rustic, and last but not least the famous Madeira wine – round off the offer on this island.
When you look at the size of Madeira, it’s hard to imagine that this island has so much to offer! But see and experience it for yourself.
From historical monuments, squares and streets in the capital Funchal to magnificent gardens, picturesque villages, fantastic landscapes, impressive volcanic caves and rugged coastlines, everything can be experienced.
Last but not least, the beautiful natural beaches and breathtaking views are so beautiful that you will soon realise that one holiday in Madeira is simply not enough!
If you arrive by plane, you will land at Funchal Airport – Cristiano Ronaldo – on the east side of the island in Santa Cruz. From here it’s a 20-minute drive to Funchal, the capital of Madeira. Our house in Fajã da Ovelha is approx. 1 hour’s drive past fantastic views of the Atlantic.
A paradise all year round – Madeira
Experience Madeira, the paradise in the Atlantic, all year round! Immerse yourself in a world full of colourful seas of flowers and spectacular coastal landscapes. Imagine the warm sun caressing your skin as you walk along the rugged cliffs with breathtaking views of the azure sea.
Enjoy the lively markets where the scent of fresh tropical fruits and exotic flowers fills the air. Let yourself be enchanted by the hospitality of the islanders as you sample local specialities in charming cafés. Feel the tingle of the ocean as you swim in hidden coves or discover the impressive lava pools of Porto Moniz.
Madeira is a place where time slows down, where nature blossoms in all its splendour and every moment is an unforgettable experience. Let yourself be enchanted by the magic of this island and experience a summer that will awaken your senses and touch your heart. Madeira is waiting to be discovered by you!