Superb walking through Madeira's botanical paradise, including flower-lined levadas and an ascent of the highest peak

Walk through the wild and varied scenery of Madeira, from gentle strolls along levadas to more demanding forays amongst the jagged ridges and peaks of the rugged volcanic interior. We discover one of the most beautiful views of Madeira on our walk from Machico to Porto da Cruz, where the mountains meet the sea. Walking along the spectacular north coast footpath, above steeply terraced hillsides and isolated cottages, we enjoy views over the Atlantic to the island of Porto Santo. Many consider the climb of Pico Ruivo (1862m), the island's highest peak, to be the highlight of the week yet the dramatic traverse to Encumeada over the Torrinhas Pass is truly breathtaking. There is plenty of time to relax by the sea in the picturesque and historic fishing village of Machico and to discover the weathy importance of Funchal, which was famous centuries ago for exporting sugar and wine to the Indies and the New World.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Start Machico. 2 Walk along Ponta de Sao Lourenco. 3 Spectacular walk along north coast path to Porto da Cruz. 4 Transfer to Queimadas; walk along Levada do Caldeirdo Verde to the isolated village of Ilha. 5 Pico Ruivo ascent, Torrinhas Pass, stone staircase down to Encumeada. 6 High level walk with spectacular views to Curral das Freiras, then spectacular drive by local bus to Funchal. 7 Free day to visit the bustling 'Mercado dos Lavradores' (workers market), Se Cathedral or some wine-tasting in Madeira's Wine Lodge. 8 End Funchal.

Mode of travel: 5 days walking with vehicle support. Altitude maximum 1862m, average 750m.
Group size: Min. 4, max. 16, plus leader.
Accommodation: 7 nights hotels/pensions.
Food: All breakfasts included.
Optional Single Supplement: from $238.14
Trip Reference: TSD
Reverse Itinerary: trips that run in reverse are specified with an "R" in the dates and prices table below.