Madeira Uncovered - Funchal and Beyond

Day 1 - Funchal

Join your tour group at the hotel.

Day 2 - Funchal

We waste no time in getting to know Madeira’s bustling capital today with a guided walk - starting with the colourful market. Here, freshly caught fish and succulent fruits are on full display. We’ll also stop by the renowned Botanical Gardens ablaze with subtropical flora, and a wine manufacturer where we’ll enjoy a delicious tasting. After we've finished our tour of Funchal, the afternoon is yours to spend as you like. Perhaps take some time to enjoy the painted doors of Rua de Santa Maria or the carefully nurtured Palheiro Gardens.

Day 3 - Funchal

Let loose in Funchal today - there’s so much to see. Modern Funchal is a far cry from its days of pirates. The cobbled streets now blend with a modern city with top-class restaurants. Maybe take a cable car up to Monte from the Old Town or the Botanical Gardens for an alternative way to experience the beautiful vistas. The Jardim Tropical Monte Palace is a tranquil gem with koi-filled crystal-clear lakes and peacocks freely roaming the manicured landscape.

Day 4 - Island Tour

Enjoy a tour of the island, including Pico da Torre for beautiful views over Camara de Lobos’ dazzling bay and Cabo Girao, the world’s second highest cliff. On to Ribeira Brava, one of the island’s first parishes, and through the jagged mountains to Encumeada, where the views are simply stunning. Travel north on a scenic drive through Chao dos Louros to Sao Vicente, set where a beautiful valley meets the sea, before returning south to Funchal.

Day 5 - Funchal

Today is free for you to spend as you wish. Take an optional excursion to Pico do Arieiro or return to the city’s centre to stroll along its narrow cobbled streets with interesting old buildings. Perhaps take in views across the island on a cable car to Monte, where wealthy aristocratic families have built their homes, and the 18th-century Monte Palace sits amongst wonderful tropical gardens. If you’re a fan of the great outdoors, you might want to discover the local countryside - there are numerous trails to follow for varying capabilities and distances.

Day 6 - Eira do Serrado - Monte

This morning we travel to Eira do Serrado, for an inspiring view down the valley of chestnut trees, surrounded by steep volcanic mountains. Far below is the isolated village of Nun’s Valley, known to be where nuns took refuge from the pirates who frequently attacked Madeira. Travel on to Monte to visit Our Lady of Monte Church. The most important pilgrimage site in Madeira, with lively processions held every August. It contains the austere tomb of Charles I of Habsburg and a revered statue of Our Lady of Monte.

Day 7 - Funchal

Spend a day at leisure exploring as you please. You could join the optional excursion to the southeast coast of the island, or you might choose to explore Funchal’s canal system under your own steam. In the 16th century an open canal system was developed, from the wetter regions of the island to the sun parched regions of the south. There are over 200 enduring, beautiful walks along these levadas, with varying levels of difficulty across dramatic landscapes and through lush vegetation. There are five to choose from in Funchal.

Day 8 - Funchal

Say goodbye to your tour group for your onward travel.