Walking in Madeira
Tue, 16 Nov 2010
Perhaps the best way to discover the Atlantic paradise of Madeira is along her extraordinary network of levadas, ancient irrigation channels running from the north and central hills to the farms of the south. Varying in length and degree of difficulty, the levada trails take walkers to otherwise inaccessible areas to discover rare flora and bird-life, and some truly breathtaking sights.
- Return flights from Isle of Man to Madeira
- One piece of hold luggage
- Return airport-to-hotel transfers
- Seven nights' bed and breakfast accommodation at your chosen hotel
- Three guided walks in the company of a knowledgeable guide
- The services of a Newmarket Tour Manager
- Government taxes and service charges
Single rooms are available for a supplement
Funchal is the island's principal port, seat of government and main trade centre. Bars and cafes spill out onto flower-strewn streets, and shops and stores vie for your attention. Wander the open-air market, enjoy a flutter in the famous casino and don't miss the world-renowned Botanical Gardens.
Day One
Fly to Madeira, and transfer to your chosen hotel.
Day Two
The first of our guided levada walks takes is an 'easy' rated two-an-a-half-hour, six-kilometre wander through agricultural land on the Quinta Grande trail. Expect to enjoy some spectacular views of the coast and the blue Atlantic as you walk between the villages of Quinta Grande and Campanario.
Day Three
On today's optional excursion, we tour Funchal's famous Mercado dos Lavodores produce market, and sample Madeira wine in Adegas de Sao Francisco, the town's oldest wine-tasting establishment. Afterwards, we drive to the Botanical Gardens to see their outstanding collection of sub-tropical and tropical plants and flowers.
Day Four
Passing Camara de Lobos, one of Churchill's favourite painting locations, today's optional excursion climbs the world's second highest cliff - by coach - to Cabo Girao. We'll take lunch (payable locally) in Porto Moniz, overlooking the celebrated rock swimming pools, before continuing to Sao Vicente and then over Encumeda Pass to see the spectacular panoramas of the island.
Day Five
The second of the included levada walks covers 12 kilometres (approximately four hours' walking) and is rated 'moderate'. Beginning at Ribeiro Frio (literally 'cold stream') the walk follows an elevated route through farmland and laurel forest, home not only to several rare plants and trees but also to a wonderful variety of bird-life.
The trail ends at Portela, from where the views down to the hilltop village of Faial and the coastal settlement of Porto da Cruz are truly spectacular.
Day Six
Enjoy a popular and fun optional excursion to Pico dos Barcelos, for the finest view of Funchal, and then on to Eira do Serrado with its spectacular view of Curral das Freiras (Nuns' Valley). In Monte we'll visit the beautiful church and take the famous wickerwork toboggan ride down to Livramento.
In the evening, join us for an optional dinner at a typical Madeirense restaurant. A glass of 'Madeira', the traditional espetada - tender, marinated beef grilled and served with mixed salad, potatoes and hot country bread - and entertainment from traditional folk-dancers all add up to a wonderful atmosphere.
Day Seven
Our final levada walk, also rated 'moderate', and covering a distance of some 13 kilometres in approximately four-and-a-half hours, will take you through the ancient Laurisilva forest of the Queimadas region.
You'll see the area's unique thatched 'A-frame' Santana houses and follow the path of the Levada do Caldeirao Verde through dense, green forest, over some fairly steep terrain and along low tunnels to the beautiful 'Green Cauldron' waterfall.
Day Eight
Transfer back to the airport for check-in and your flight home.
Walking footwear and equipment
Stout walking shoes are a must, and a reasonable level of fitness will be required to enjoy the trails' fascination and interest. Waterproofs and a warm jumper are also essential, and you will need to bring a working torch, as some of the trails head through ancient tunnels.
Wining and dining
Fish and seafood are central to Madeirense cuisine. Try the atum (tuna), espadarte (swordfish) or espada (black scabbard fish). Espetada is the most popular meat dish, while other specialities include milho frito (fried cornmeal) and honey cake. Madeira wine, from sweet Malmsey to dry Verdelho, can accompany most meals, but there is also a local, dry vinho seco.
