Dominique's Potvin itinerary for 5 days on Madeira Island

Dominique's Potvin itinerary for 5 days on Madeira Island

Hi Dominique,

Please see the itinerary I have created for you.

All details below are suggestions only, we can discuss in advance and change or alter the dates depending on our calendars and the weather forecast.

16th of September - Pick-up from the Airport. Please send the the flight details.

1st Day (17th of September)

  1. Hike from Boca da Corrida towards Pico Grande - this trail offers incredible views of the central island valleys. The final section is more challenging, involving a 500 m climb in full sun. I suggest we skip this section, but we can decide what is best when we get there.
  2. Madalena do Mar - a picturesque village on the southwest coast of Madeira, renowned for its tranquil atmosphere and its mild, sunny climate ideal for banana cultivation.
  3. Calheta - Inside this town you'll find a marina, lined with restaurants serving the catch of the day, and a modern art centre that will surprise you. The beach is actually two sheltered coves of golden sand, perfect for when you've had enough of Madeira's typical rocky coastline.
  4. Suggested lunch in Calheta (Essência do Atlântico) or in Jardim do Mar (Joe's Bar).
  5. Miradouro da Raposeira viewpoint.
  6. Jardim do Mar (an idyllic and charming fishermen village).

2nd Day (18th of September)

  1. PR 16 Levada do Rodrigues - a leisurely walk through a lush jungle paradise with waterfalls at every turn.
  2. Quebradas viewpoint in Ponta Delgada village.
  3. São Cristovão viewpoint (my favorite😄)
  4. Beira da Quinta viewpoint
  5. Moinho a Água in Achadinha village - An old watermill from 17th century that still functions and grains wheat and corn.
  6. São Jorje wild pebble beach and ruins of an old sugar cane watermill.
  7. Rocha do Navio viewpoint.
  8. Suggested restaurant: 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. With a range of dishes made from organic and locally sourced ingredients, many of which are grown on the estate's extensive estate. The vegetarian options are also delicious and my favorite is the Hamburger with Portobello mushrooms.

3rd Day (19th of September)

  1. Pico dos Barcelos - 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'll 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.

4th Day (21st of September)

  1. Hiking Vereda do Larano (11 km and 44 floors). This stunning coastal hike is, without a doubt, one of my favorite hikes in Madeira.
  2. Town of Porto da Cruz. Suggested lunch at A Pipa. This restaurant is a delightful spot for those seeking authentic Madeiran cuisine. This family-run restaurant focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Seafood lovers will be delighted with dishes such as lapas (limpets) served sizzling with garlic and butter, and perfectly grilled fish dishes.
  3. Viewpoint Guindaste (view over the north coast of Madeira). It’s an amazing place that offers some mesmerizing views of the ocean and the massive cliffs along Madeira’s northeastern coast. 
  4. Viewpoint Portela.
  5. Viewpoint Ponta do Rosto (view of Ponta de São Lorenco dragon tail).
  6. Viewpoint Pico do Facho.
  7. Viewpoint do Cristo Rei (the 1st statue of Jesus Christ, before Brasil and Lisbon).

5th Day (22nd 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 to avoid big crowds or standing in line for the cable car.
  2. PR 14 Levada dos Cedros (around 7 km both ways with 300 m difference in altitude) 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. Veu da Noiva viewpoint of an waterfall.

23rd of September - Transfer to the Airport.

The price for all 5 days and airport pickup & drop off is 999 EUR.
Notes:
Full day services count as 8 hours.
Overtime: 20.00 EUR per hour. VAT included.
For services between 22:00 and 06:59, a night surcharge of 25% will apply.
*Lunch, snacks and beverages are not included.

Hiking Essentials: Please bring with you the following items for all the days: warm clothing for the early morning chill, comfortable walking shoes with good grip, sunscreen and sunglasses.

**I also suggest we bring some snacks with us. There will not always be good lunch options outside Funchal.

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.

A Vista - Savor the Flavors and Sights of Funchal. If you're looking for a dining experience that captures both the flavour and beauty of Madeira, A Vista in Funchal is the place to be. This restaurant offers tasty dishes paired with killer views that make every meal unforgettable. Overlooking the sparkling Atlantic and the charming rooftops of Funchal, A Vista is a feast for the eyes and the stomach. The menu is a creative blend of traditional Madeiran flavours with a modern twist.

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).