Inspiration for your own tailor-made trip
Portugal - Madeira - Funchal - Porto Moniz - Santana
100% customisable for you
Your weeklong getaway to beautiful Madeira begins today with a four-hour flight to the island’s capital of Funchal. Head to the airport, whizz through security and make the most of the nibbles and refreshments in the airport lounge as you await departure. On arrival, collect your hire car and travel into the heart of Funchal to your first hotel, a property that’s full of history. The rest of today is then yours to spend settling into your new surroundings. You could head out for a gentle stroll around the historic centre or simply kick back, relax and enjoy the facilities at your hotel.
Head out today in the company of a knowledgeable private driver-guide for an adventure through the island’s wild and hilly hinterland in a 4x4. Journey west to the striking Serra de Agua valley to visit a beautiful village built into the steep slopes. From here, wind your way up to the Encumeada pass, which rises to a height of 2,300ft and separates the north of the island from the south. Naturally, the views from here across both sides of Madeira are truly stunning. Continue across the famous Lauriferous Forest of Madeira, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring 90% primary forest of moss, fern and rare species of flora and fauna. Round off your adventure discovering the enchanting vineyards of Seixal, and, of course, sampling the finest local wines and traditional tapas specialities this region has to offer. Head back to Funchal this afternoon and spend the rest of today further soaking in the delights of the city. We could also arrange for your to discover the bustling Mercado dos Lavradores and the village of Monte with a private guide.
Owing to its prime location in the North Atlantic Ocean, Madeira is a great place to observe majestic marine species like dolphins and whales passing on their migratory routes. Throughout the seasons, nearly 28 species visit these waters, including sperm whales, Byrde’s whales and bottlenose dolphins. Spend a few hours sailing off the coast of Funchal, getting close enough to observe these gentle giants move in their natural environments without disturbing them. You can also opt to extend your day at sea with a guided fishing trip off the coast of Funchal.
Swap the hustle and bustle of Funchal with the coastal calm of the northwest of the island as you journey an hour to Porto Moniz. Perched between the ocean and some curious black rock formations, this small seaside resort has the laid-back atmosphere of island living. Hang up your hat in a beautiful hotel nestled right on the water’s edge and spend the next two days resting and recharging your batteries in total bliss. Swim in refreshing Atlantic waters, laze on plush sun loungers and feast on ultra-fresh seafood specialities. This part of the island also has some great hiking opportunities, so we can also arrange for you to trace Madeira’s old irrigation canals as you embark on a guided hike along the Levada do Alecrim.
Your journey across Madeira continues today with an hour-long drive along the north coast of the island to Santana, a beautiful sea-fronted town known and adored for its traditional housing. On arrival, settle in for two nights in a hilltop farmhouse surrounded by vineyards and flower gardens and spend the rest of today soaking in the cultural delights of Santana. The star of the show here is the collection of ‘Casas Típicas’, traditional stone houses with triangular thatched roofs. There is a well-curated museum that details the curiosities of traditional architecture as well as the way life has changed on the island over the centuries. You could also use your hire car to explore the many points of interest in the surrounding area. From the challenging hike up to the Penha de Agua summit, to the baroque altarpiece of the church of São Jorge in the west and the Miradouro do Guindaste viewpoint, there is plenty to keep you busy in and around Santana.
Madeira is a home to an incredible network of irrigation canals that crisscross the island and were designed as far back as the 16th century to supply the driest parts of Madeira with water. After a hearty breakfast this morning you’ll be met by a seasoned private guide and led on along the Levada Referta. This trail allows you to observe the pristine natural landscapes, picturesque villages and endemic flora and fauna of the northeast of the island.
Sadly the time has come to bid the vast and varied landscapes of Madeira a warm farewell and embark on the journey home. After one last delicious breakfast at your hotel this morning, hit the road an hour’s drive south back to the airport in Funchal. On arrival, drop off your hire car, whizz back through security and take the opportunity to stock up on any last-minute souvenirs and local specialities before boarding a four-hour flight back to the UK.
Everything in this itinerary is entirely customisable, down to the smallest details. Here are some more suggestions of what could be included
Each of our trips is entirely tailor-made with originality, quality and cultural immersion in mind. Our team of destination specialists will craft itineraries based on your tastes, using their first-hand knowledge and the help of our in-country team of Concierges and guides. All trips are accompanied by a wide range of additional services, including a 24-hour helpline, the Original Travel app, fast-track airport services and much more.
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Our team of destination experts will get to know you and your unique requirements for your holiday
We work with you to build an ultra-personalised holiday itinerary with your choice of accommodation, experiences and activities
All of our holidays include little extras designed to make a big difference to your trip, from fast-tracking you through airport check-in and security to our network of local Concierges
