For the first day, you will fly to Madeira.

Once you arrive at the airport, you can quickly get to Funchal by bus or taxi. You can choose the first night option with us and enjoy a comfortable hotel with a pool, wellness center, and breakfast included.

Depending on the time of your arrival, you can either explore the center of Funchal or take some rest. The hiking will begin the next day.

The first day of hiking through the Fanal Forest is a magical moment. This fairy-tale-like forest is filled with majestic trees with gnarled branches, creating a natural canopy that casts a soothing shadow on our path. It's no wonder it's classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

What makes this experience even more special is the appearance of fog. It gradually emerges between the trees, giving the forest a mysterious aura. Sunbeams piercing through the mist create an almost enchanting spectacle. We feel like we're moving through an enchanted world, where time seems suspended, and nature reveals its most precious secrets.

This first day of hiking also brings its share of elevation changes. The terrain is hilly, with ups and downs that add an exciting dimension to the adventure. Each ascent rewards us with breathtaking views of the surroundings, and you might even catch a glimpse of a beautiful waterfall. It's true that it requires some effort, but the reward of these stunning landscapes is worth it.

You will end the hike at Rabaçal, where you'll sleep in a charming cottage surrounded by nature.

• Distance: 17 km*
• Elevation gain: 1070 m
• Elevation loss: 480 m

*A shorter alternative of 2 km with less elevation will also be offered.

Note: Distances and elevations may vary depending on the app or watch used. Differences between the GPX file and reality can be explained by several factors, such as GPS accuracy, app settings, or terrain variations.

The second day of our hike begins. From your very first steps on this trail, you'll be immersed in the natural beauty of Madeira.

The hike takes you through winding and steep paths, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain landscapes. As you progress, you'll have the chance to gaze upon endless panoramas, with lush valleys and distant peaks fading into the horizon.

Next, you'll make your way to Encumeada, where you'll spend the night in a cozy hotel nestled in the mountains, providing stunning views of the valley.

This area is filled with a soothing atmosphere, perfect for resting after your day of hiking. It not only offers shelter for the night but also a sense of isolation and tranquility in the heart of nature.

• Distance: 20 km
• Ascent: 780 m
• Descent: 1030 m

Note: Distances and elevation changes may vary depending on the app or watch used. These discrepancies between the GPX file and reality can be attributed to several factors, such as GPS accuracy, app settings, or terrain variations.

For this third day of walking, you'll depart from Encumeada and head towards Pico Ruivo, the highest point of the archipelago, perched at 1,862 meters above sea level. This trail stretches along the central mountain range of the island, offering breathtaking views of the surroundings. You'll witness landscapes you've never seen before.

The path takes you through stunning mountainous scenery, with sharp ridges and dizzying cliffs. The 360-degree panoramic views from Pico Ruivo are simply breathtaking, rewarding you for your morning efforts. This hike is an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

After this day of hiking, you'll sleep at the refuge located at Pico Ruivo, making you feel like you're on top of the world. If the weather permits, you'll be able to witness a magnificent sunset, literally above the clouds, a unique experience.

• Distance: 12 km
• Elevation gain: 1200 m
• Elevation loss: 260 m

Note: Distances and elevations may vary depending on the app or watch used. Differences between the GPX file and reality can be explained by various factors, such as GPS accuracy, app settings, or terrain variations.

This fourth day of hiking starts with palpable excitement at the summit of Pico Ruivo, where you spent the night. At the first light of dawn, you can witness a breathtaking sunrise, weather permitting. The golden light slowly floods the horizon, painting a magical picture over the surrounding peaks, still cradled by clouds.

Once the sun has taken its place in the sky, you prepare for the descent to Santana. The path opens up before you, winding through stunning landscapes. You carefully make your way down, taking the time to admire the breathtaking views of the steep mountains and lush valleys stretching as far as the eye can see.

This day will be the most intense in terms of negative elevation gain, as you descend all the way to the coast. So, watch your knees and make good use of your trekking poles; they'll come in very handy at this point.

Upon arrival, you'll stay in a charming hotel where you can relax.

• Distance: 15.7 km
• Positive elevation gain: 250 m
• Negative elevation gain: 1490 m

Note: Distances and elevation gains may vary depending on the app or watch used. These differences between the GPX file and reality can be explained by several factors, such as GPS accuracy, app settings, or terrain variations.

For this final day of hiking, our itinerary takes you from Porto da Cruz to Machico via Boca do Risco. In the morning, a transfer will take you from the hotel in Santana to the start of the hike at Porto da Cruz (those who wish can, of course, choose to walk this part).

Your journey begins in the charming coastal village of Porto da Cruz, where you'll be greeted by the gentle breeze of the ocean. This trail reveals stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and impressive rock formations.

Boca do Risco offers breathtaking views of the majestic cliffs and the ocean stretching as far as the eye can see. Take the time to stop and savor this stunning landscape and capture memorable moments.

As you continue your hike towards Machico, the path leads you through a variety of landscapes, including wooded areas and coastal trails. The richness of the flora and fauna along the route provides exceptional opportunities for birdwatching and admiring the lush vegetation that surrounds you.

Once in Machico, you can head to the hotel to enjoy a well-deserved relaxing evening. This moment of tranquility will be a chance to rest after the efforts made throughout this week of hiking.

• Distance: 15 km
• Positive elevation gain: 600 m
• Negative elevation gain: 620 m

Note: Distances and elevation gains may vary depending on the app or device used. These discrepancies between the GPX file and reality can be explained by several factors, such as GPS accuracy, app settings, or terrain variations.

This is the end of the journey. You can now decide whether to extend your stay in Madeira or to return home.

If you choose to stay, our ranger will be happy to provide recommendations for visiting Funchal or other highlights of the island!