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8 Days
From
From IntroductoryTo Challenging
Whilst Madeira has a reputation for being a superb hiking destination, the suprisingly quiet roads circling the island offer cyclists just as much in terms of dramatic coastal scenes and cultural connection. With much of the islands traffic using the vast system of tunnels and freeways, cyclists can enjoy in peace the mountainous roads where sweeping views are a constant backdrop as you pedal. The more difficult sections are bridged with transfers allowing for a more leisurely experience but a prerequisite is a very good level of fitness and cycling ability due to the long and sustained ascents and the steep gradient of the terrain. Enjoy a summer-like climate all year around as well as the exotic flora and fauna. On your way, you will find wonderful parks and gardens, still bays and spectacular cliffs. This Portuguese Island was settled in the 15th Century and the legacy remains of magnificent quintas and monumental fortresses. Spend a week discovering this World Cultural Heritage site landscape, traditional seafaring culture and above all the hospitality of the Madeirans.
Portugal
Madeira
Funchal, Madeira
17kg of CO2-e PP per day
(121kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)
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Day 1
Arrive Madeira, welcome briefing
On arrival at Funchal Airport, make your way to nearby Caniço for your overnight accommodation. Enjoy the location right by the beach. In the evening there will be a welcome briefing by your tour representative.
Meals: Nil
Day 2
Transfer from Caniço to Camacha, cycle to Porto da Cruz (25km/15.6mi)
In the morning there is the transfer to Camacha, where your rental bikes will be fitted. This village is famous for its basket making. The cycle takes you on a lovely high road right towards the East Coast. Enjoy the beautiful views on the way to the little fishing village, Porto da Cruz. Relax here on the beach made out of volcanic sand or visit one of the last working sugar cane mills and rum distillery.
Meals: B
Day 3
Transfer from Porto da Cruz to Santana, cycle to São Vicente/surrounds (40km/25mi)
A long, steep ascent will be bridged by bus this morning to Santana, perched high above the ocean and the starting point of your cycle. A collection of colourful traditional, thatched farmhouses have been lovingly restored here and are open to visitors plus there are usually morning markets in the square, all with the back drop of the sweeping sea views. The cycle route goes along a beautiful road through small, charming villages whilst always running along the coast until you get to São Vicente. The village, named after Saint Vincent, is located right by the sea. It is however well-known for its 400,000-year-old grottoes.
Day 4
Transfer to Rocha Negra, cycle to Porto Moniz (35km/22mi)
A transfer will take you to the high plateau Paúl da Serra deep in the interior. From here, you get on your bike and follow the high road past grazing cows and sheep. A long descent will then lead you to the West Coast of the island. Before you get to Porto Moniz, a spectacular view will be a treat for your hard work today. Where you are staying tonight is well-known for its natural swimming pools. The sea formed small and large pools, which are popular places to swim by both locals and tourists alike.
Day 5
Porto Moniz – Calheta approx. 45 km
Today’s stage takes you along the West Coast and right through the UNESCO world heritage site, Parque Natural da Madeira (Madeira Natural Park). You will cycle through fragrant forests and through small villages and you will always be accompanied by spectacular views of the sea, with every bend you turn. In the lively village Calheta, it was not only the yacht harbour that is manmade. For the artificial beach, sand was especially imported from Morocco. The former sugar cane village has become a popular place for locals and tourists alike.
Day 6
Cycle to Funchal via Gabo Girao (50km/31mi)
For the first third of today‘s stage, you will cycle directly along the waterside towards the capital. From Ribeira Brava the route takes you uphill away from the coast and then you will reach a spectacular viewpoint on the island - Cabo Girao, where a transparent platform was built 580m above the sea. The view down over the highest cliffs in Europe is dizzying. A long descent will then bring you back to the coast and into the centre of Funchal, marking the end of your cycle. Colourful and lively are two strong impressions you will get from the capital of this island with its markets and alleyways of restaurants and bars.
Day 7
Funchal cable car journey/levada walk
Today we swap our bikes for our feet and travel by cable car to the popular destination of Monte. Previously a noble health resort with grand quintas, this area offers many possibilities nowadays for an interesting day. You can visit the pilgrimage church Nossa Senhora do Monte do Monte and the tropical garden Jardim Tropical Monte Palace. You could also go for a walk along the famous waterway, the “Levadas”.
Day 8
Trip concludes
The trip concludes after breakfast.
What's included
What's not included
A combination of mainly 4 star hotels and one 2 star hotel on a twin share basis all with ensuite facilities.
These are a range of 2-5 star hotels all with ensuite facilities specially chosen for their local character and location. A supplement applies if you upgrade to charm category.
Electric bikes, or e-bikes, are designed to make cycling easier. The pedalling ‘boost’ provided by an e-bike opens up more options, allowing people of different fitness levels to cycle together or for cyclists to take on routes they may otherwise consider too tough for their current fitness capabilities. Please note that e-bikes are heavier than normal bikes and given the higher speed possible, should only be ridden by confident cyclists. Minimum age for e-bike rental is 12 years and a minimum height requirement is 148cm / 4ft10in. Helmets are mandatory on all bike tours. You can either purchase one, must be pre-booked or bring your own well-fitted helmet. In the case of a puncture the assumption is that you can repair. A puncture repair kit is included in the equipment provided so you can fix the issue.
You may chose a hybrid bike, 21 speed bike with derailleur gears and free wheel. You will also receive a pannier to carry your gear for the day, along with a handlebar bag, repair kit and lock.
This is a sportier bike with a diamond frame with many upgraded parts of the bike, from the saddle to the brakes and gears. On request.
Most of the cycle will be on quiet roads that lead you around the island. There will be short sections of busier roads when coming in and out of villages or towns.
GRADE 3 - Daily cycles of around 25 to 50km / 15.6 to 31mi. While the distance is not significant and the more difficult sections are bridged by transfers, the mountainous terrain contributes to the difficulty of the cycle, even on an e-bike. The accent is on keeping a steady pace with time to stop and take photos (subject to weather conditions). You will need a good level of cycling fitness and competency to participate fully in this adventure. Mostly the cycling is on asphalted surfaces and there are several longer ascents to deal with each day. You need only carry your camera and water bottle. Your luggage is transported for you between hotels. *For safety reasons, we insist that cycle helmets be included as a compulsory item on your equipment list.
Per Person, Twin Share
To be honest the difference between standard and charm on this tour is not much, both categories are recommended. For the charm version the hotels are a slightly higher standard in the best location, but in regards to the official star rating they are of the same standard.
We recommend taking a taxi. The hotel is located about 15 minutes from the airport and a taxi will cost around 35 Euros.
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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Personal Experience
We've been exploring the world on foot for over five decades, and our passion for walking runs deep. Having hiked nearly every corner of Europe, we take pride in sharing the joy, freedom and perspective that only travelling on foot can bring, all with the exceptional service and care our travellers know us for.
Great Value & Quality
Our trips offer excellent value for money, with everything you need for a seamless walking holiday. Each package includes detailed route notes, maps and navigation app, luggage transfers, and comfortable locally run accommodation. We take care of the planning, so you can simply enjoy the walk.
Self-Guided Specialists
We've been operating self-guided active holidays since 1973, taking care of every detail so you can relax and explore at your own pace. With many walking and hiking tours departing daily, you'll enjoy the freedom and flexibility to travel when it suits you.
self guided walk
hotel, pension, guesthouse
8Days
Moderate
hotel, pension
9Days
Moderate to Challenging