Best hikes in Madeira

⛰️ Best Hikes in Madeira: Stunning Trails and Scenic Views

Madeira is a hiker’s paradise, offering a variety of trails that suit all levels of fitness, from easy walks to more challenging treks. If you're ready to explore the island’s natural beauty, these are some of the best hikes you shouldn’t miss if you coming to hike in Madeira.

👇 Looking for more Madeira travel tips? Scroll down for more amazing guides! 👇

🌄 Vereda do Areeiro: The Iconic Hike

The most famous and scenic hike in Madeira. It begins at 📍 Pico do Areeiro 1810m and ends at Pico do Ruivo 1862m, taking approximately 3.5 hours to complete -one way. Then you have to hike back, making it a long and challenging trek. As one of the best hikes in Madeira, this trail showcases the island's stunning natural beauty and is perfect for those looking to experience Madeira’s top hiking destinations.

The weather conditions can be very cold and foggy, so always make sure to check the Pico do Areeiro Webcam for real-time weather updates before embarking on the hike.

📖 Read: Best time to visit Madeira?

Okay, some people might feel a bit scared if they aren't in good shape or haven't trained enough for this hike. But hey, I've got a little secret to share with you on how to complete it even if you're not super fit:

1. On the first day, go to Pico do Areeiro and hike halfway from there, then return.

   
   

2. On another day, head to Pico do Ruivo and hike halfway, then come back. Doing it this way can make the hike easier for you.

   
   

3. There's also a third option where you can go from Pico to Pico and organize a taxi ride, but I wouldn't really recommend it because it can be quite expensive (over 60€ for one ride).

   
   

🌊 Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço: Coastal Adventure

The trail is located at the eastern tip of the island and covers a total distance of 3 km, with an additional 3 km back to complete the hike. It'll take 2.5 hours in total. It is considered to be moderately difficult. As you walk, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking ocean views and unique landscapes, making it one of the best Madeira coastal hikes.

📖 Read: How to get around in Madeira?

🕊️ Levada do Moinho: A Relaxing Trail

Considered an easy hike, the trail features only 150m of elevation gain along its 9 km path, making it suitable for most fitness levels. The hike can typically be completed in 3-4 hours, offering a relaxed yet scenic journey through Madeira’s beautiful landscapes.

The trail starts 📍here, behind the little church, in a somewhat hidden location.

It's a path that goes back and forth along the cliff, but the return route is "on the second floor." This means that when you reach the end of the outbound path, you'll find some stairs on your right that will allow you to follow the return route at a higher elevation, making the experience even more exciting.

If you are afraid of heights, you may want to skip climbing the stairs and instead return via the same path.

🌅 Vereda do Larano: Coastal Charm

It's my favorite coastal walk, offering amazing views of the coastline throughout the trek. Considered to be easy to moderate, the hike spans 13 km one way, from Caniçal to Porto da Cruz, and takes about 4 hours to complete. Along the way, you'll be treated to stunning ocean vistas, rugged cliffs, and the natural beauty that defines Madeira’s coastline. This is a must-do for anyone looking to enjoy the island's spectacular scenery on a moderate hike.

🌲 Levada do Caldeirão Verde: A Nature Lover's Dream

It's a beautiful hiking trail that goes through green forests and valleys, following an old water channel. The trail leads to the stunning Caldeirão Verde waterfall. The hike takes about 6.5 hours to complete and is considered moderate, covering a distance of 8.7 km- plus 8.7 km return. The trail starts at Queimadas Forest Park, 📍 here.

Make sure to bring plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes as you explore this picturesque trail, a must-do for Madeira hiking enthusiasts!

🌄 Balcões Viewpoint: Panoramic Views with a Short Walk

Balcões Viewpoint offers panoramic views of the Ribeiro Frio valley and the surrounding mountains. It is a little walk to reach the viewpoint so it can be suitable for all levels. The trail starts from the street 📍 here.