Jacqui Zender's suggested itinerary

Jacqui Zender's suggested itinerary
Fanal forest

Day 1 North West

  1. Seixal Beach, also known as the Hawaii of Europe, it is a stunning natural gem with beautiful volcanic sand beach, clear waters and astonishing cliffs. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery and the dark volcanic pebbles contrast beautifully with the crystal-clear waters.
  2. A leisurely walk in Fanal forest which has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1999.
  3. Porto Moniz - The main attraction are the unique lava pools filled with salty, warm sea water for safe bathing in an epic setting. These pools are formed from volcanic rock that has been naturally eroded by the sea. The water in the pools is very clear and is regularly refreshed by the tides.
  4. 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.

Day 2 West Coast

  1. Viewpoint Ponta da Ladeira.
  2. Viewpoint da Garganta Funda (impressive waterfall especially in the winter time when the debit is higher).
  3. Miradouro do Fio (viewpoint of the highest lighthouse of Portugal, visible from 50 km).
  4. Jardim do Mar (an idyllic and charming fishermen village).
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
    Explore Madeira's enchanting Banana Route - a vibrant journey through lush, terraced banana plantations that plunge into the Atlantic. It leads along concrete paths, small levadas and a few stairs through banana plantations where you can often see locals at work.
  7. Cabo Girão (The highest skywalk on a cliff in Europe).

Day 3 North East

  1. Viewpoint Curtado - stunning panoramas of lush valleys, terraced fields, and distant mountains. It's an ideal location for photography and taking in the natural beauty of Madeira.
  2. Viewpoint Rocha do Navio - known for its stunning cliffs and peaceful vibe. You can get there by a scenic cable car (currently under maintenance). It offers amazing views of the ocean and green hills.
  3. Santana visit the traditional thatch-and-lava stone buildings that were once common throughout the north-east of the island.
  4. 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.
  5. São Jorje wild pebble beach and ruins of an old sugar cane mill.
  6. Moinho a agua in Achadinha village - An old watermill from 17th century.
  7. Viewpoint Beira da Quinta (facing Arco de São Jorje village).
  8. Viewpoint São Cristovão (Boaventura).
  9. Viewpoint Quebradas in Ponta Delgada village.

Day 4 East Coast

  1. 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. 
  2. Fortress of Faial viewpoint
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Viewpoint Portela
  6. Viewpoint Ponta do Rosto (view of Ponta de São Lorenco dragon tail).
  7. Viewpoint Pico do Facho
  8. Machico (a little medieval town)
  9. Viewpoint do Cristo Rei (the 1st statue of Jesus Christ, before Brasil and Lisbon).

The price for all 4 days for 4 people is 705,16 Euro with 15% discount.

The price for 1 full day is 207.40 Euro.

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.

Other suggestions in Funchal or close to it

  1. Cable Car to Monte - 12,5 Euros/ person.
    Visit Monte Palace Tropical garden - 15 Euros/person
    Toboggan ride - 35 Euros / 2 people.

2. Câmara de Lobos - little fishermen enchanting village where Winston Churchill used to spend time and paint, this little town is 10 minutes by car from Funchal so it can be something you can do on your own.

3. Santa Maria de Colombo - a replica of Christopher Columbus's flagship (they also organize 3 h boat trips from Funchal and it's a very nice experience.

Levadas less crowded with tourists:
1. Levada do Rei.
2. Verada do Vento da Lagoa

Recommended trails:
1. Fanal - Levada dos Cedros
2. Ponta de São Lourenço Trail (PR8) takes you on a scenic 3 km (6 km both ways) hike through breathtaking landscapes. The fee is 3 euros /person and it can be paid online.
If you're tired, there's an option for a Boat trip on the way back with Madeira Sea Emotions