Training schedule

To get started right
  • Make controlled movements.
  • Don't start with weights that are too heavy.
  • Repeat the exercises at least twice a week.
  • Does the exercise feel easy? Increase the difficulty by holding the position longer and/or doing more repetitions. You can practice these exercises daily to stay in top shape.
The force

If you have enough strength, moving in the mountains becomes much easier, whether it's lifting your leg while climbing or navigating rocky terrain on steep paths. With a few home exercises, you'll strengthen your muscles.

Strength training is a key step in your preparation. Practice the following exercises to get ready for mountain terrain:

  • Calf raises
  • Russian twist
  • Squat
  • Hip thrust
  • Wall sit
  • Jumping lunges
L’endurance

The training program spans 14 weeks, with 3 sessions per week.

  • In week 1, you start with 25 minutes on day 1, 25 minutes on day 2, and 30 minutes on day 3.
  • In week 2, you move to 30 minutes on day 1, 35 minutes on day 2, and 35 minutes on day 3.
  • In week 3, the sessions increase to 40 minutes, 45 minutes, and 50 minutes.
  • Week 4 is a bit lighter, with 35 minutes on day 1, 45 minutes on day 2, and 35 minutes on day 3.
  • In week 5, you do 45 minutes, then 55 minutes, then 45 minutes.
  • In week 6, the sessions last 50 minutes, 60 minutes, and 50 minutes.
  • In week 7, you maintain a good pace with 50 minutes on day 1, 55 minutes on day 2, and 50 minutes on day 3.
  • In week 8, you increase to 60 minutes, 65 minutes, and 70 minutes.
  • In week 9, you hit a significant load with 80 minutes on day 1, 50 minutes on day 2, and 80 minutes on day 3.
  • In week 10, you keep 80 minutes on day 1, then a short session of 30 minutes at maximum speed on day 2, before a 90-minute outing on day 3.
  • In week 11, you do 80 minutes, 50 minutes, and 90 minutes.
  • In week 12, the program includes 80 minutes on day 1, 30 minutes at maximum speed on day 2, and 100 minutes on day 3.
  • In week 13, you continue with 80 minutes, 50 minutes, and 110 minutes.

Finally, in week 14, you finish with 80 minutes on day 1, 30 minutes at maximum speed on day 2, and 120 minutes on day 3.

When developing your muscle strength, never push yourself too hard. Pain is a signal from your body that you need to listen to.

If you feel pain, try to:

  1. Simplify the exercise.
  2. Reduce its duration.
  3. Stop at your pain threshold without ever exceeding it.

 

Mobility

By being flexible and mobile, you will move more easily on the trails, especially when lifting your leg or navigating between rocks. Good mobility allows for smoother movement and better control.

Since we often stay in our comfort zone, our muscles can shorten, become stiff, and fatigue quickly. If you suffer from stiffness, start each activity with a warm-up. Here are some exercises you can do at home:

  • Low squat
  • Jefferson curl
  • Ankle stability
  • Thigh stretch
  • Active pigeon
  • Cossack stretch
Stability

When hiking, having a "steady foot" (walking without wobbling) is crucial. You'll be navigating rugged terrain with narrow passages. Good stability reduces the risk of slipping and falling. Improve your balance with:

  • Plank
  • Hip abductors
  • Calf raises
  • Low squat
  • Russian twist
See you soon on the trails!

With this simple training plan, you'll optimally prepare your body for your hike. Keep listening to your body: if any pain persists, consult a doctor.

Unsure about a movement? Type the name of the exercise on YouTube to find plenty of demonstration videos. For more details, refer to the complete program that we will send you shortly after your booking.

The Madeira Trail FAQs

Do you offer guided trips in Madeira?

No, we only offer this trek in a self-guided format. This means that a ranger is always nearby, but they do not accompany you during the hike.

Is the trek in Madeira organized in July and August? Is it held during the summer?

No. The Madeira Trail does not take place in July or August. We only organize this trek in the spring and autumn.

In the middle of summer, Madeira is much more crowded, and we don't want the experience to be spoiled by the crowds. That's why we choose times when the weather is still pleasant, but there aren't too many tourists.

Is there an option to include the PR1 Verada do Areiro hike?

Yes. If you stay an extra day, you can choose to do the hike PR1 (Vereda do Areeiro). It’s a very famous and truly stunning route.

We haven’t included it in the standard program because it is often very crowded, which slightly detracts from the experience we want to offer. But as an additional option, it can be a great complement.

Is the trek taking place in September?

The Madeira Trail usually takes place in April, May, September, and October. To find out the exact dates, you can check the calendar.

When will the dates for spring and autumn be available?

The spring dates are usually published in September, and the autumn dates in February.

When do registrations for spring open?

Registration opens two weeks after the announcement of the new dates.

When do registrations for the fall open?

Registrations open 2 weeks after the new dates are announced.

Is there an airport shuttle included?

No, there is no airport shuttle. You can easily reach the hotel or the airport by public transport or taxi. Madeira is a small island, and distances are short.

By bus:

Take a bus from the airport and ask the driver to drop you off at Enotel Magnolia, usually at stop number 12. The driver will confirm the correct stop for you.

💰 Fare: €6.40, to be paid in cash directly on the bus.

By taxi:

The journey to Funchal takes about 25 to 30 minutes.

💰 Estimated price: around €30.

Is the trek doable for people with claustrophobia?

There are two short tunnels along the route. They are not very long and you can always see the end of the tunnel, which should make it easier for you if you're claustrophobic.

Unfortunately, there is no alternative route to avoid them.

General FAQs

Can I hold a spot, and how long is my place reserved if I book without paying?

Unfortunately, it is not possible to place an option on your reservation. But don't worry: if you register without paying immediately, we will automatically hold your spot for 5 days.

If you pay within those 5 days, your reservation will be fully confirmed. If you don't pay within that timeframe, your reservation will automatically expire.

Until when is the Early Bird rate applicable?

The early bird rate is valid as long as there are spots available. This will be decided later, depending on how quickly the trip fills up.

If the trip fills up very quickly, we won't apply a price increase and the rate will remain unchanged.

What is the Early Bird rate?

The Early Bird rate is not a fixed amount. It depends on demand and availability for certain weeks and options.

When certain weeks start to fill up quickly and availability becomes limited, prices may increase. However, if a trip sells out very quickly, we do not raise the price and simply close it once it’s full.

If you want to make sure you get the best deal, it's safer to book early.

Will I receive a gear list or a training program, and when will I get them?

Yes. Shortly after your booking, you will receive a training program and a packing list to help you prepare for the trek.

You will receive this email with additional information within 7 to 14 days of your booking. In the meantime, we recommend downloading the Travelbase app, where you will already find plenty of practical information about your trip.

Do I have to pay cancellation fees if I want to remove an option from my booking?

In most cases, no. You can easily add or remove most options yourself in your profile up to 2 months before departure, without any cancellation fees.

If you want to remove a night at the hotel later, that is usually no longer possible and the cost will still be charged.

What options can I still change after making my reservation?

After booking, you can still modify the following options (subject to availability): luggage transport and hiking poles.

Is it possible to eat gluten-free?

Yes, it is possible to eat gluten-free. As in many cultures, bread is an integral part of breakfast and lunch, so it's important that we know your needs in advance.

If you would like to eat gluten-free, please contact us at info@travelbase.eu so we can note this when you make your reservation.

For the Madeira Trail, we recommend bringing your own extra gluten-free bread to ensure you have enough carbs/energy during the hike.

When will I receive the GPX files?

You will receive the GPX files via the Travelbase app no later than two weeks before departure, once everything is confirmed. If you haven't received the GPX files two weeks before departure, you need to contact the ranger. This will be possible as soon as the group chat is available in the Travelbase app.

Can I see the ages of the other participants?

No, you cannot see the ages of other participants during the booking process.

However, you'll get to know your travel companions about two weeks before departure through the group chat in the Travelbase app. Don't forget that the groups are always made up of a diverse mix of people, and that's exactly what creates such a dynamic atmosphere on the trails.

Can I see if there are other solo travelers?

You can't see it yourself when booking.

If you really want to join a week with other solo travelers, feel free to contact us at info@travelbase.eu and provide your three preferred departure dates. We'll check which weeks already have registered solo travelers.

What are the cancellation conditions?

If you cancel, here are the cancellation conditions

Travel Cancellation Policy 1) I can no longer travel. What are my options?

We try to be as flexible as possible. If you cannot participate, three scenarios are possible.

#1 – Replacement Have you found someone who wants to take over your booking? Great! Getting a replacement is completely free and does not require cancellation insurance. Please note, this is only possible for options that are not named (like plane tickets).

Conditions This replacement must be communicated at least 7 days before departure via email.

What exactly do I need to do? You send an email (you'll find the email address on the trip's website) including the name, first name, email, and phone number of your replacement (preferably also cc this person in the email). We will then ensure that this person registers and we will link your payment to their booking. If you have flights in your name and can no longer travel, please let us know. We’re happy to help you find the most suitable solution.

How do I get my money back? You arrange the refunds among yourselves.

#2 – Cancel with cancellation insurance You can't come, you can't find a replacement, but fortunately, you opted for cancellation insurance when you booked? If you cancel by the date mentioned below, you will be refunded 100% of the total registration amount (minus the cost of cancellation insurance), without needing to provide a reason:

  • For trips with a departure date on or after October 1, 2026: by August 1, 2026 at the latest.
  • For trips with a departure date on or after June 1, 2026: by April 1, 2026 at the latest.
  • For trips with a departure date before June 1, 2026: by February 1, 2026 at the latest. If you cancel after this date, you will also be refunded 100% of the total reservation amount (minus the cost of cancellation insurance and the price of flights) if you can provide a valid reason for cancellation (see “reasons for cancellation” on the last page). If you cannot provide a valid reason for cancellation, you will still be refunded 60% of the registration amount (minus the cost of cancellation insurance and the price of flights) provided you cancel by the day of departure and the full trip amount has been paid. Cancellation during the trip: this is not covered by this cancellation insurance but will be handled by your own insurance or the travel assistance you booked.

What exactly do I need to do? You send us an email (you will find the email address on the specific trip website) stating the reason for cancellation (if needed, see below). This must be done no later than the day of departure. Evidence will be requested (a doctor's note, the schedule and report of the new exam, the new employment contract, etc.)

How and when will I get my money back? If you cancel at least 60 days before departure, the travel costs will be refunded no later than the day of departure. If your cancellation is less than 60 days before departure, your trip refund may occur up to 60 days after the actual return from the planned trip.

#3 – Cancellation without insurance You can't come, but you didn't take out cancellation insurance when booking, and you're really unable to find anyone to replace you? Too bad! If you have already paid the full amount of the trip, you will be entitled to a refund if you cancel early enough. If the total amount has not yet been paid, there will be no refund. If you booked a trip with flights offered by Travelbase, the price of the plane tickets is excluded from the partial refund and will therefore not be refunded.

2) Travelbase cancels the trip due to force majeure

Your planned trip is canceled by us due to a case of force majeure? We assure you that we will only do this if:

  • the government of the departure country prohibits you from traveling to the destination at the time of departure.
  • the destination country (or region) prohibits you from traveling there.

If you opted for our cancellation insurance:

  • You can postpone your trip to a later date at no cost.
  • If you have already paid the total amount, you can also claim a full refund of the booking (minus the cost of cancellation insurance) to your bank account.

Refunds are automatically processed to the account number used at the time of booking.

Those who did not opt for cancellation insurance can also make a new booking free of charge or receive a Travelbase travel voucher valid for 2 years for the amount already paid.

You can find the valid reasons for cancellation in the cancellation conditions document.

Can I have a private room?

No, not for the nights in the chalet and the mountain huts. These accommodations are always shared, so it's not possible to have a private room there.

If you'd like to stay alone in a hotel room, just send us an email at info@travelbase.eu and we'll check the available options for your dates.

What are the daily distances?

Throughout the week, you'll cover about 85 km in total, with daily stages ranging from 12 to 22 km. The days are well distributed and balanced to ensure a good compromise between the number of kilometers traveled and the elevation gain. Keep in mind that distances aren't the only factor to consider. It's primarily the elevation that defines the trail, even though sometimes.

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