Alisa's Mandel itinerary in Madeira

Alisa's Mandel itinerary in Madeira

Hi Alisa,

Please see the itinerary I have created for you based on your input.

All of the details below are suggestions only. We can discuss them in advance and switch the dates depending on the weather forecast.

1st Day (4th of September)

  1. Viewpoint Portela.
  2. Town of Porto da Cruz. We can visit Engenhos do Norte, one of the few surviving rum distilleries of the island and the only one still driven by steam.
  3. Viewpoint Guindaste.
  4. Viewpoint Rocha do Navio.
  5. Santana visit the traditional thatch-and-lava stone buildings that were once common throughout the north-east of the island.
  6. Suggested lunch: Quinta do Furão is a charming 5 hectares estate, with 3 hectares dedicated to organic vines, vegetables and herbs. The vineyard itself covers 2 hectares and boasts a wide range of grape varieties, including Arnsburger, Touriga Nacional, Verdelho and Tinta Roriz. With a range of dishes made from organic and locally sourced ingredients, many of which are grown on the estate's extensive estate, my recommendations are: the succulent roast lamb, the freshly caught seafood, or the Bife à Caldeirão Verde filled with Roquefort cheese dish. The vegetarian options are also delicious and my favorite is the Hamburger with Portobello mushrooms.
  7. São Jorje wild pebble beach and ruins of an old sugar cane mill.
  8. Moinho a agua in Achadinha village - An old watermill from 17th century that still functions with water from Levada do Rei.
  9. Viewpoint Beira da Quinta (facing Arco de São Jorje village).
  10. Viewpoint São Cristovão (Boaventura).

2nd Day (5th of September)

  1. Achada da Cruz - where one of the steepest cable cars in the world will transport us to o a world where time stands still...This cable car transports both local farmers and visitors from 450 m above sea level down a 98% incline to an uninhabited farming village. The experience itself is an exhilarating journey from the rugged coastal cliffs to the picturesque village below.)
    We'll have to arrive here early in the morning (around 9:00 am to avoid big crowds or standing in line for the cable car.
  2. A short stroll in Fanal forest which has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1999.
  3. Ribeira da Janela viewpoint.
  4. Espaço Infinito viewpoint.
  5. Ribeira da Laje - this area is known as the Hawaii of Europe, it is a stunning natural gem with beautiful volcanic beach, clear waters and astonishing cliffs.
  6. Poço das Lesmas - natural lava pools in Seixal, an alternative to the famous and very crowded lava pools in Porto Moniz.
  7. Chao da Ribeira - a charming mountain village on the north west coast and my new favourite place on Madeira island.

3rd Day (6th of September)

  1. Pico dos Barcelos viewpoint - offers a 360° view of the beautiful city of Funchal.
  2. Curral das Freiras (Nun's Valley) - a village surrounded by the mountain peaks; one of the few places on the island that it is not visible from the sea.
  3. Caminho Florestal das Serras de Setor Antônio - a road in the central of the island renowned for its unique and diverse flora and vegetation, offering a rich experience of the wild and scenic heart of Madeira.
  4. Miradouro do Paredão - overlooking breathtaking views towards Pico Grande, the 6th highest peak of Madeira and Nun's Valley, only this one is less touristy and, in my opinion, even more beautiful.
  5. Sunset at Pico do Arieiro- this is one o the hottest points of the island and the 3rd peak of Madeira. My suggestion for my clients is to choose sunset here over sunrise when the most number of tourists arrive there. We could be hiking about 3 km both ways ( around 50 floors difference in altitude) and we'll see Ninho da Manta viewpoint (usually above the clouds) and the famous Stairs of Heaven. We'll get the same epic views as at the famous sunrise, but with a fraction of the people. The light is warmer, the atmosphere is calmer, and you can actually hear the silence.

The price for all 3 days is 689 eur.
Notes:
Full day services count as 8 hours.
Overtime: 20.00 EUR per hour. VAT included.
*Lunch, snacks and beverages are not included.

Suggestions for Funchal:

  1. Cable Car to Monte - 20 Euros/ person.
    Visit Monte Palace Tropical garden - 15 Euros/person
  2. Toboggan ride - 35 Euros / 2 people.
  3. Santa Maria de Colombo - a replica of Christopher Columbus's flagship (they also organize 3h boat trips from Funchal and it's a very nice experience.
  4. Wine tasting at Blandy's.

Suggestions for dinner (require booking a table in advance)

Sabor a fado restaurant At Travessa das Torres nº10, you'll discover a cosy place that you simply can't miss! Sabor a Fado is a restaurant where heart-warming music meets delicious Madeiran cuisine. This family-run fado house combines the soulful music of traditional Portuguese music with the delicious flavours of local gastronomy. From the moment you walk through the doors, you'll be greeted by the warm smiles of the Sousa family, who will be your perfect hosts for the evening. They don't just serve your table, they create an experience, sharing stories through songs and making you feel like part of their extended family.

Akua - Chef Júlio Pereira's Akua restaurant offers a vibrant dining experience that will delight all lovers of seafood and Mediterranean cuisine. At Akua, the culinary magic of the aquatic world takes centre stage, offering a sensory journey from the sea to the table. Each dish is meticulously crafted, showcasing both bold flavours and artistic presentation.

Carvão Grill House is a dining experience you don't want to miss. The service is excellent and the food is absolutely incredible. Even if you don't usually finish your meals, you'll want to savour every bite here! The prices are quite reasonable, making it a must visit during your stay in Madeira. You won't be disappointed! We enjoyed the Wagyu beef which is cooked to perfection and bursting with flavour. Every bite was melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

Abrigo do Pastor - Just 15 kilometres from Funchal, Abrigo do Pastor is a charming spot for food lovers and explorers alike. This cosy, wood-panelled restaurant offers a welcoming retreat where you can enjoy the authentic flavours of the island.  From hearty meat dishes to fresh seafood, the menu showcases the best of Madeiran cuisine using fresh, local ingredients. With the peaceful sounds of nature all around you, dining at Abrigo do Pastor is both an escape and a treat. It's the perfect place to enjoy great food, soak up the forest atmosphere and experience the warm hospitality for which Madeira is renowned.

Adega do Pomar This charming restaurant embodies the spirit of Madeira, offering a dining experience that's both rustic and refreshingly authentic. Start your culinary journey with a plate of grilled lapas (limpets) or indulge in Bolo do Caco, a garlic bread that's as addictive as it is traditional. For the main event, Mendinha takes the central stage. Mendinha is a stew made from veal ribs slowly cooked the oven for at least 4-5 hours until tender, absorbing a rich blend of local ingredients. These include garlic, onions and a bouquet of fragrant herbs such as bay leaves and oregano, which add layers of aromatic complexity to the dish. A splash of Madeira wine adds a touch of sophistication, giving the sauce a unique hint of sweetness. Mendinha is typically served with rustic accompaniments such as crusty bread or boiled potatoes, which help to soak up the inviting sauce. It's a popular choice for festive occasions and family gatherings.

Santo António - Situated in the picturesque hills of the Estreito de Câmara de Lobos, Santo Antonio is a popular culinary destination offering an authentic taste of Madeira. It is particularly famous for its exceptional espetada - many people, both locals and tourists, say it's the best on the island (I also love the espetada at O Polar).