Top 10 Must-See and Do Experiences in Madeira, Portugal

Hessa Murad on 20 June 2022
Levada Hike
Near Seixal
Cascata dos Anjos
Sao Vicente Church
Sao Vicente
Sao Vicente
Sao Vicente
Natural Pool near Seixal
Black Sand Beach
Seixal Black Sand Beach
Monte Palace
Romeo & Juliette Veranda, Monte Palace
Cable Car from Funchal
Porto Moniz, Volcanic Natural Pools
Pico to Pico Trail
Tobaggon
Waterfall at end of Calderao Verde Levada Hike
Levada
One of the many beautiful tunnels
Beautiful Drive from Fanal Forest
Fanal Forest
Madeira, often called the Hawaii of Europe, is a paradise of natural wonders and exciting adventures offering you an abundance of experiences that will leave you in awe. It is a destination perfect for Solo, couple, and family travel. I visited it last summer and here's a list of my top 10 things to see and do during your visit to this captivating island.

1- Pico to Pico Hike: Embark on the challenging yet rewarding Pico do Ariero to Pico Ruivo hike, taking you to the highest peaks of Madeira. The breathtaking views at the summit are well worth the effort. And if you do not feel like hiking, then you can easily access it by car and park at either summit at sunrise or sunset.

2- Levada Hike: Immerse yourself in Madeira's lush landscapes by choosing between the Calderão Verde hike with its cascading waterfall or the magical 25 Fontes walk leading to stunning waterfalls and emerald lagoons. Both are easy day hikes but my favorite is Calderao Verde.

3- Fanal Forest: Step into a fairytale at Fanal Forest, where ancient laurel trees create a mystical ambience. This enchanting destination is a perfect day trip for family exploration and connecting with nature. We loved walking around the forest, having a picnic in the parking lot, avoiding the cows and bulls, and just being above the clouds that day.

4- Seixal Black Sand Beach: Unwind at Seixal Beach, known for its striking black sand and crystal-clear waters. Let the kids build sandcastles and enjoy the gentle waves.

5- Porto Moniz Natural Pools: Dive into the natural volcanic swimming pools of Porto Moniz, a fun and safe experience for the whole family. Splash, swim, and soak in the beauty of these unique formations.

6- Canyoning: Experience the thrill of canyoning as you navigate through stunning gorges, waterfalls, and natural pools. It's an exhilarating adventure that allows you to connect with Madeira's rugged terrain.

7- Run Under Cascata do Anjos: Experience the refreshing rush of running under the stunning Cascata do Anjos waterfall. Feel the spray on your skin as you bask in the beauty of this natural wonder. Definitely worth the detour that day!

8- Visit São Vicente and the Sao Vicente Caves: Explore the charming village of São Vicente, known for its volcanic caves and rich history. Discover the captivating landscapes and learn about the island's geological past.

9- Botanical Garden and Monte Palace: Immerse yourself in the vibrant Botanical Garden, a paradise of exotic flora. Then, visit the Monte Palace Tropical Garden to encounter playful peacocks and lush greenery.

10- Toboggan Ride and Funchal Exploration: End your journey with a thrilling Toboggan ride through Funchal's streets, a unique Madeiran tradition and then explore the city's vibrant atmosphere and indulge in local delicacies.

Madeira offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to every traveller's interests. From exhilarating hikes to tranquil beaches, from vibrant gardens to exciting water activities, this island is a treasure trove of memories waiting to be made. Get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that will forever hold a special place in your heart

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