Where is Levada das 25 Fontes

Located in the heart of Rabacal is Levada das 25 Fontes, Madeira’s most popular Levada walk, and the one that guides you to both the Risco Waterfall and the 25 Fontes Waterfall.

Since there are two official starting points, I have to make clear that I will discuss the Rabacal route.

The Rabacal starting point of the hike is easily accessed by car and is situated roughly an hour’s drive from Funchal.

Arrival at the Rabacal Parking

Once you arrive at the parking at the beginning of the Rabacal Route, you will notice one paved road down. From here, you can start hiking, or wait until a transfer bus picks you up.

Every 10 minutes, a bus will transfer people up and down at a cost of €5,- round trip. Do note that you can only pay by cash and that it operates between 10:00 and 18:00 every day.

I’ve you visit early, or simply want to hike the whole journey – it takes only 2 kilometres to get to the official start of the PR6 hike by foot.

Start of Levada das 25 Fontes

After following the paved road for about 20 minutes, you’ll reach the Forest House, this is where you’ll find the official beginning point of the PR6 hike.

From here, the path will guide you into a dense forest with plenty of twisting tree branches hanging above the path, as well as an iconic Levada aqueduct flowing abundantly along it.

PR6.1 | Take a short detour to visit the towering Risco Waterfall

Around 2 kilometres into the hike, you’ll reach a crossroad that gives you the option to continue in the direction of 25 Fontes or take a short detour to the Risco Waterfall.

From this point on, I’d recommend taking the detour, especially given it takes only half an hour to see this impressive must-see waterfall.

After a couple of hundred metres, you’ll reach the stunning Risco Waterfall, a two-tiered waterfall with a height of approximately 100 metres.

While the waterfall is slightly less powerful during the summer months, it’s a pretty spectacular sight to behold at any time of the year.

Once you’ve taken some photos at the waterfall it’s time to head back to the crossroad, where you continue the PR6 path into the direction of the 25 Fontes waterfall.

PR6 | Levada das 25 Fontes

Now that you’ve made it back to the intersection, continue on the main path on your left-hand side, which leads you into the direction of the 25 Fontes Waterfall.

This path starts with some steep steps down before you’ve reached the Levada, which is without question the most interesting part of the hike.

Along the way, you’ll stumble upon plenty of tunnels formed by overgrown branches, densely grown forest and beautiful tropical flowers, as well as Madeira’s iconic Levada aqueducts.

The 25 Fontes Waterfall

About 5 kilometres in the hike, you’ll reach the 25 Fontes Waterfall, an amphitheatre-like waterfall with, as the name might suggest, 25 waterfalls flowing along the wall of the waterfall, before dropping into a large central basin.

Due to the tropical circumstances, the waterfall is encircled with incredible flora, including lush vines, plants, and moss covering the walls of 25 Fontes.

While it’s totally possible to take a plunge into the waterfall’s basin, keep in mind that it will be freezing cold, even during the peak summer months.

Since this Levada walk is considered Madeira’s most popular, the 25 Fontes waterfall can become very crowded, so make sure you start off the hike a little earlier than your fellow travellers.

How to wrap up the Levada das 25 Fontes PR6 hike

After you’ve spent some time at the 25 Fontes Waterfall, it’s time to retrace your footsteps back to the beginning of the hike, where you’ll find the Rabacal Nature Spot Café.

Once arrived at the cafe, you can take a short coffee break, some snacks and refreshments, or a lunch, before heading back to the parking lot.

At this point, you could decide to hike back or take the bus directly to the parking. Since I had a day with lots of activities planned out, I decided to take the €3,- bus back to the parking lot.

Additionally, if you’re looking for some more adventure, take the Caltheta route, which leads you through the tunnel. Do, however, keep in mind that this route has a pretty steep climb up – plus that your car will most likely be parked at the Rabacal parking lot, which is pretty far from the end of the tunnel.

Best time of day to do the Levada das 25 Fontes PR6 hike

As with most popular activities on Madeira, the Levada das 25 Fontes hike gets rather busy later in the day, so imagine what it’s like during the peak summer months.

For that reason, I’d say that the best time to follow this hike is early in the morning when it’s still relatively quiet in comparison to later in the day.

If you don’t mind sharing the experience with lots of other people, starting the hike in the late morning or early afternoon will do just fine too. However, make sure you wrap up the hike before it turns dark.

Best time of year to do the Levada das 25 Fontes PR6 hike

Madeira is known to have excellent weather year-round, yet this area is prone to slightly more rainfall, which makes sense given waterfalls emerge from rainfall.

Therefore, the best time to visit the Levada das 25 Fontes PR6 hike and Risco Waterfall is during the summer months of June, Juli and August, when the waterfalls flow and the temperatures are good.

If you prefer travelling during the off-season like me, opt for the shoulder months of May, September or October. During this period, you experience smaller crowds, yet still have comfortable weather conditions.

I hiked the PR6 Levada das 25 Fontes at the beginning of October and had great circumstances – plus it was relatively quiet on the trail, which helped me get some good photography.

What to bring on your Levada das 25 Fontes hike

As with any hike, I believe it’s essential that you’re well-equipped before setting out on your adventure.

For that reason, I recommend anyone who’s planning to hike the Levada das 25 Fontes PR6 hike to do the same. To help you have a comfortable journey, I’d highly suggest bringing the following items:

REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE | One travel essential that I carry with me at all times is the Grayl Geopress. This reusable water purification bottle allows me to fill up water from nearly every water source, making it one of my best investments to date.

HIKING BOOTS OR A GOOD PAIR OF SNEAKERS | While hiking boots definitely provide more stability to your ankles, I believe you could easily do the PR6 hike in a good pair of sneakers – just be sure that they have a firm sole with enough grip, so you’re supported when things get slippery. I recently bought the New Balance Hierro v7, and am really happy with them, as they offer all the feats of a hiking boot, while still looking like a dope sneaker.

HIKING POLES | I did the PR6 hike without hiking poles, but if you have poor knees or prefer a little support during the more strenuous parts of the trail, I highly advise bringing a set of quality hiking poles. These Montem Ultra Strong Hiking Poles are light, collapsible, and a great value for the price.

Where to stay on Madeira

Given Madeira is rather compact, I highly recommend anyone to base themselves in Funchal, Madeira’s vibrant capital city.

Funchal is an awesome city in its own right and is home to plenty of excellent accommodation options, is packed with history and culture, plus it has trendy restaurants and cafes at just about every corner.

To help you find suitable accommodation, I’ve listed three of my favourites below, one of which is marked – this is the place where I stayed.

Stay safe on Madeira | Travel insurance

Since travelling on Madeira is all about hiking and nature, I recommend everyone to sort out good travel insurance before setting out on their own adventure.

Where we prefer that everything goes smoothly during our travels, something unfortunate can happen at any moment, whether it’s an injury during a hike or an accident on the road. 

For travel insurance, I use Heymondo, as they offer full covid-19 coverage, as well as a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Make sure you check it out – readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy too.

Where to stay in Funchal

Since Funchal is the capital of Madeira, the city has no shortage of excellent accommodation options that cater to all sorts of travellers, budgets and travel styles.

Whether you’re after a cheap sleep in a hostel, a luxurious boutique hotel with a rooftop pool, or an elegant seaside resort, there are plenty of excellent options to choose from.

To help you find your perfect stay, these are my suggestions on where to stay in Funchal:

Vila Baleira |This was my base for my trip to Madeira, and if you’re seeking comfort without spending your entire budget straight away, Vila Baleira will be excellent for you too. Located within the popular Lido area, this hotel offers spacious rooms, comfortable beds, and a large rooftop terrace with a swimming pool. They also have a delicious breakfast spread, excellent wifi throughout the entire property, and a secured parking lot right under the property.

NEXT – Savoy Signature | This budget-friendly hotel in the centre of Funchal has spacious modern-style rooms with comfortable double beds and a brilliant private bathroom with a rain shower. They also have an incredible rooftop swimming pool with amazing sea views. Double rooms are only €50 per night, which makes this hotel one of the best picks in Funchal.

Hotel Cajú | Set within the heart of Funchal, Hotel Cajú is a great place to stay, with stylish double rooms, friendly staff, and a small yet excellent in-house fitness centre. All bookings come with exceptional breakfast too. One small downside though, they don’t have private parking.

2 | Sample a top-notch burger at Deli Burger D’mar

To me, there are only a few things more satisfying than stumbling upon a good burger joint after an active day of exploring.

So, when I passed Deli Burger D’Mar, I simply couldn’t resist stopping by.

With more than 15 unique combinations on the menu, plenty of thoughtfully selected toppings, and the option to create your own burger, this eatery is basically a burger lovers paradise, and definitely a must-try for anyone visiting Funchal.

I opted for the Cosmo burger; two beef patties stewed in onions, melted cheddar, pickles, crispy bacon plus big house sauce in a nicely toasted homemade bun, and was blown away by the rich and distinct flavours.

So, if you’re anything like me, and love a good burger from time to time, do yourself a favour and treat yourself to what I believe to be the best burger in Funchal.

3 | Take a stroll around Mercado dos Lavradores

One of my favourite ways to get a feel for a city and its people is by roaming around the local market in search of a delicacy or produce.

Nestled in the lively streets of the historic Santa Maria area is Mercado dos Lavradores, an average-sized covered market where you find plenty of market stores selling all sorts of local produce, including fruits, vegetables and fish to name but a few.

While all products found here are of tremendous quality, there was one section that particularly caught my attention, namely the exotic fruit section.

Though I’m entirely sure you stumble upon fruits you’ve never seen before, I’d highly advise not to sample every tempting-looking piece of fruit – Mercado dos Lavradores is somewhat notorious in terms of prices.

If you have all sorts of fruit cravings after your visit to Mercado dos Lavradores (which makes sense), make sure you visit one of the street vendors instead, as they often offer the same fruits at a friendlier price.

Another thing worth noting is that Mercado dos Lavradores is closed during the weekends.

5 | Take a walk through Funchal Old Town

Wandering through the streets of Funchal Old Town, was in many ways one of my favourite things to do in Funchal.

The old town is charmed by several 15th-century buildings, cobblestone streets, and picturesque time-worn houses and is deemed to be of significant historical and architectural value.

Some of my favourite landmarks in Funchal Old Town include:

Corpo Santo Chapel | This 15th-century Gothic-style chapel reflects remarkable workmanship and stands proud in the heart of Funchal Old Town.

Sao Tiago Fort | Initially built to protect the coast from pirates in the 16th century, the Sao Tiago Fort now houses a museum and a trendy restaurant with a lively terrace.

Painted Doors of Rua de Santa Maria | The Painted Doors Project in Rua de Santa Maria are hard to miss and without question one of the best things to do in Funchal Old Town – more on that later.

8 | Behold the Funchal Cathedral

Situated smack-bang in the centre of Funchal is the enchanting Funchal Cathedral, locally also known as The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption in Sé.

Built in the distinctive Manueline and Gothic style, the Funchal Cathedral dates back as far as the 16th century and is one of the few structures that survived the early colonization of Madeira.

What’s even more impressive, is that the cathedral was built with blocks made from volcanic rocks that came all the way from the cliffs of Cabo Girão, about 20 minutes West of Funchal.

Since early 1910, the Funchal Cathedral has become a National Monument, which also made it become the most important religious building on Madeira.

Today, this symbol of Portugal’s thriving ‘Age of Discovery’ remains a centrepiece in town, attracting the likes of hundreds of visitors every day.

9 | Join a dolphin and whale watching tour

Given Madeira is located in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean, the island has become a popular island for those looking to see wild dolphins and whales.

Every day, lots of boats leave Funchal harbour in search of dolphins, whales and turtles, giving their visitors a chance to see Madeira’s rich and diverse marine life in their natural habitat.

Though it isn’t guaranteed that you’ll encounter these majestic creatures, it is pretty common to catch a glimpse of dolphins during your trip out at sea. Whales however are a different story, as they are much rarer to see and occur only at specific times of the year.

With a bit of luck though, you’ll see several species of whales, including Pilot Whales, Sperm Whales as well as more rare species such as the Sei Whale, Humpback Whale, and Minke Whale to name but a few.

Since a Dolphin and Whale watching tour has become one of the most popular things to do in Funchal, there are heaps of tour companies that venture out at the ocean.

For that reason, I believe it’s important to find a tour operator that specialises in ethical tourism practices and nature conservation.

If you’re keen to join a tour, make sure you check out this 3-hour catamaran tour, as it is handled by a company that takes the preservation of Madeira’s ocean life seriously.

Weather in Funchal | The best time to visit Funchal

Given Madeira is situated just off the coast of Africa, the island enjoys a subtropical climate, meaning there’s comfortable weather year-round.

However, Funchal truly comes alive during the summer months of June, July and August, when the days are long, the weather warm and there’s barely any rainfall.

But to me, the best time to visit Funchal is during the shoulder months of May, September and October, when the weather is still warm, yet it’s far less busy in comparison to the peak summer months.

Also, winters are very mild, making Funchal a perfect destination for those after a winter getaway.

How to get to Funchal

PLANE | The Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport is located 30 minutes from Funchal and hosts both European and international flights, so you will probably be looking to enter the country here.

For flights to Funchal, I would advise looking into Skyscanner. Not only is their website easy to use, but they offer a wide range of different airlines too – plus it’s easy to find good rates.

BUS | From the Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport, it is rather easy to get to the city centre of Funchal town by both public or private buses.

The Madeira Aerobus operates between the airport and Formosa Beach, with several stops in the hotel zones of Madeira. A one-way journey will cost you €5,- per person and a return ticket comes at €8,- per person. For the latest time schedule see here.

If you’re after some extra comfort, opt for this air-conditioned private airport transfer instead. This option isn’t only more comfy, it’s also a great value for the money, especially if you’re travelling with a group. More information and availability here.

CAR | If you’re planning to cruise around the island – which you should, I would highly recommend picking up your rental right after you have landed on Madeira.

If you haven’t sorted out your rental car yet, make sure you explore the options at Rentalcars.com. Not only do they offer a broad selection of cars, but they provide excellent service and extra insurance options too.

From the airport, it takes only 30 minutes to get to Funchal, where you will find plenty of parking options.

One side note though, parking costs can run very high, so I recommend finding accommodation with private parking instead – scroll back to my accommodation suggestions to see some of the available options.

Stay safe on Madeira | Travel insurance

Since travelling on Madeira is all about hiking and nature, I recommend everyone sort out good travel insurance before setting out on their own adventure.

Where we prefer that everything goes smoothly during our travels, something unfortunate can happen at any moment, whether it’s an injury during a hike, a stolen camera, or an accident on the road.

For travel insurance, I use Heymondo, as they offer full COVID-19 coverage, as well as a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Make sure you check it out – readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy too. Additionally, I also recommend World Nomads.

1 | PICO DO ARIEIRO VIEWPOINT

A visit to Madeira wouldn’t be complete without watching the sunrise from Pico do Arieiro.

Set in the heart of Madeira’s Central Mountain Massif, is Pico do Arieiro (1,818m), one of the island’s highest peaks, and home to Madeira’s most iconic viewpoint.

While the main viewpoint of Miradouro Juncal is teeming with fellow travellers, the area itself is relatively extensive, which makes it easy to find a quiet spot to watch a stunning sunrise unfold.

Pico do Arieiro is also the starting point of the famous PR1 hike. If you’re keen to do the PR1 hike from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo, make sure you check out my guide for inspiration, and hiking advice.

2 | MIRADOURO PONTA DO ROSTO

I have to admit, Miradouro Ponta do Rosto is without doubt up there with my favourite viewpoints on Madeira.

Situated on the far most Eastern corner of Madeira, this viewpoint provides the most spectacular views of the volcanic landscape of the unique São Lourenço Peninsula.

What makes Miradouro Ponta do Rosto one of the best viewpoints on Madeira, is that the main viewpoint is located directly after the parking lot, making it extremely easy to get to.

If you’re in for some more adventure, walk around the navigation station and go to the left until you reach the pilar atop the towering cliff. Since this isn’t an official path, make sure you stay safe by keeping your distance from the edge of the cliff.

Also, given Miradouro Ponta do Rosto is located on the São Lourenço Peninsula, I highly recommend combining this viewpoint with the PR8 hike on Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço.

3 | MIRADOURO BICA DA CANA

Perhaps the most underrated viewpoint on Madeira, the Bica da Cana viewpoint welcomes its visitors with stunning views of Pico Ruivo (1,862m) and Pico do Arieiro (1818m).

But it isn’t just the views of the surrounding mountains that make Miradouro Bica da Cana one of the best viewpoints on the island.

No, its most striking feature is that the summit of Bica da Cana (1,560m) is situated slightly lower than the clouds, meaning you will literally stand above the clouds.

Trust me, it’s a phenomenal experience to witness a sea of clouds roll over the mountains below, while the sun slowly rises above the highest peaks of Madeira.

4 | MIRADOURO LOMBO DO MOURO

Located within only 5 minutes of Bica da Cana is Miradouro Lombo do Mouro, a striking viewpoint that is relatively unknown, yet very much worthy of your time.

Miradouro Lombo do Mouro is situated directly on the side of the road and provides stunning views of one of the most scenic roads on Madeira, as well as the surrounding Encumeada valley.

Given its location, this viewpoint is easily combined with the Bica da Cana viewpoint.

5 | MIRADOURO DO GUINDASTE | CRANE VIEWPOINT

Perched on the Northeastern coastline of Madeira is Miradouro Do Guindaste, an otherworldly viewpoint that is without question one of my favourite viewpoints on the island.

This viewpoint – also known as Crane viewpoint – provides a unique plateau, with striking views of the rough Atlantic, as well as the rugged mountain cliffs of Porto da Cruz in the distance.

While Miradouro Do Guindaste is beautiful at every time of day, I advise visiting either at sunrise or sunset, especially if it’s your goal to nail the perfect photo for your Instagram feed.

6 | VEREDA DOS BALCÕES VIEWPOINT

One of the most popular viewpoints on Madeira, and certainly worthy of your occasion is Vereda Dos Balcões, a stunning viewpoint in the heart of the picturesque Satana municipality.

While it takes only 10 minutes to hike to the viewpoint, it still feels as though it’s completely hidden in the lush mountain ranges of Madeira.

Upon arrival, you’ll notice a small balcony that offers panoramic views of the valley of the Ribeira da Metade, Faial parish and the Central Mountains of Madeira island.

This viewpoint is also considered a bird-watching paradise, with plenty of indigenous and endemic species. If you’re lucky, you may witness a Madeira firecrest, chaffinch, buzzard or a very rare Madeira Laurel Pigeon.

7 | MIRADOURO DO VÉU DA NOIVA

Imagine a waterfall gushing from towering cliffs straight into the ocean, the Véu da Noiva waterfall is exactly that – and for that reason, an unmissable stop for anyone travelling to Madeira.

Perched between Seixal and São Vicente on Madeira’s breathtaking North coast is Miradouro do Véu da Noiva, an easy-to-get-to viewpoint that is undisputedly the most surreal place I’ve uncovered on Madeira.

There is a parking lot right next to the viewpoint, as well as a small cafe to grab some beverages or a snack. However, since this viewpoint is super accessible, it does get super busy during the day.

Also, If you’re into serious photography, I advise visiting at sunrise, or in the late afternoon, as the harsh light and reflection on the water might stand in your way of pulling off the perfect shot.

8 | MIRADOURO PONTA DA LADEIRA

Found on Madeira’s less popular North-western coast, Miradouro Ponta da Ladeira is probably the best viewpoint from where to experience a sunset on Madeira.

Dramatic cliffs, the infinite Atlantic ocean, and the last light of the day illuminating the sky cause for an epic scene, making it the perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Add to that, that you’re most likely alone at this viewpoint, and you’re in for a unique, off the beaten path adventure on Madeira.

However, it is good to know that once you’ve reached the parking lot, you need to head to the left-hand side and take a couple of steps down a dirt pathway, before getting to the actual viewpoint of Ponta da Ladeira.

Though it may sound a little more challenging, it’s absolutely worth the extra effort.

WHERE TO STAY ON MADEIRA

Since Madeira is relatively compact, I highly recommend anyone to base themselves in Funchal, the island’s lively capital city.

Funchal is an incredible city and houses plenty of excellent accommodation options, while it’s also packed with history and culture, as well as trendy restaurants and cafes at just about every corner.

To help you find the right accommodation, I’ve listed three of my favourite options below, one of which is marked with a plus – this is the place where I stayed.

+ Vila Baleira | This was my base for the whole of my trip, and if you’re seeking comfort without spending your entire budget straight away, Vila Baleira will be perfect for you too. Located within the popular Lido area, this hotel offers spacious rooms, comfortable beds, a large rooftop terrace with a swimming pool. They also have a tasty breakfast spread, excellent wifi throughout the entire property, and a secured parking lot right under the property.

Hotel Cajú | Set within the heart of Funchal, Hotel Cajú is a great place to stay, with stylish double rooms, friendly staff, and a small yet excellent in-house fitness centre. All bookings come with exceptional breakfast too. One small downside though, they don’t have private parking.

NEXT – Savoy Signature | This budget-friendly hotel in the centre of Funchal has spacious modern-style rooms with comfortable double beds and a brilliant private bathroom with a rain shower. They also have an incredible rooftop swimming pool with amazing sea views. Double rooms at only €50,- per night make this place one of the best picks in Funchal.

Alternatively, search for accommodation in Funchal on booking.com.

SUNRISE AT PICO DO ARIEIRO

Upon arrival, I advise you to head directly to Miradouro Juncal, Pico Do Arieiro’s main sunrise point, and without question one of the best places to watch the sunrise on Madeira.

While the main viewpoint of Miradouro Juncal is usually overrun by fellow travellers, the area itself is relatively vast, which makes it easy to find a quiet space to watch an epic sunrise unfold.

SECTION I

The starting point of the hike is situated on the left-hand side of the weather station, right after the parking area. The trail begins fairly easy with plenty of signposts and a clear paved pathway.

After about 15 minutes, you’ll reach the first real highlight; Miradouro do Ninho da Manta, a panorama viewpoint that is also known as the Buzzard’s Nest. Here you’ll find a small balcony that welcomes you to some of the best views of the surrounding valley.

After a short stop at Miradouro do Ninho da Manta, it is time to head in the direction of  Miradouro Pedra Rija, where you will find the incredible Stairway to Heaven.

On a cloudy day, this section of the hike is incredibly moody and dramatic, which is why it has become my absolute favourite part of the PR1 hike from Pico Do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo.

SECTION II

Once you’ve passed Miradouro Pedra Rija, it is all about descending, with plenty of stairs down until you reach the first of a series of tunnels, with the longest being roughly 150 metres long.

After a short while, the trail becomes flat and is literally carved out of the side of a mountain. Though this part isn’t the most picturesque, it was excellent to catch a good breather before the steep climb up ahead.

As mentioned above, it isn’t all fun and games. After following the narrow path for around 20 minutes, it is time to climb up a steep sequence of stairways, some of which are nearly completely vertical.

To me, this part is without question the toughest part of the entire hike, as it requires quite a bit of stamina to get to the other side of the mountain.

But as soon as you’ve reached the top, you will be greeted by stunning views of the entire region. I chose to have a short break here before I started the final section of the hike.

SECTION III

The third and final section of the hike begins with an easy, yet scenic path along with a group of white dead trees. It’s pretty picturesque and relatively flat for nearly 25 minutes.

Right before the final climb, you stumble upon Casa do Abrigo Mountain Hut, a small cafe where you can get several beverages and snacks. After a quick stop and a coffee, it was finally time for the last climb up.

From the cafe, It took me only 10 minutes uphill until I reached the summit of Pico Ruivo

PICO RUIVO SUMMIT

Upon arriving at the Pico Ruivo summit, you will be greeted by some of the best views of the island. On a clear day, you’ll have breathtaking views as far as the eye can see.

That, and you have now officially set foot upon the highest point on Madeira at 1,862m above sea level.

I’ve spent around an hour exploring the various corners and viewpoints of Pico Ruivo before making my way back to the trail.

HOW TO WRAP UP THE HIKE

While I personally chose to hike back to the starting point at Pico Do Arieiro, it’s also completely possible to do the hike in one direction.

Though it is worth saying that the hike out and back is rather intense, I also believe it’s an awesome experience, since the route back showcases the landscape from a totally different perspective.

For those looking to do the PR1 hike in one direction, I’d highly advise checking out Pico transfers, as they offer affordable transfer services to the beginning and endpoint of the hike.

Additionally, if you’re an advanced hiker, it is also possible to combine the PR1 Vereda do Arieiro hike with either the PR1.2 Achada do Teixeira hike or the PR1.3 Vereda da Encumeada hike – but I’ll leave that up to you!

STAY SAFE ON MADEIRA | TRAVEL INSURANCE

Since travelling on Madeira is all about hiking and nature, I recommend everyone to sort out good travel insurance before setting out on their own adventure.

Where we prefer that everything goes smoothly during our travels, something unfortunate can happen at any moment, whether it’s an injury during a hike or an accident on the road.

For travel insurance, I use Heymondo, as they offer full covid-19 coverage, as well as a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Make sure you check it out – readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy too.

The PR8 hike on Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço is without question one of the most popular hikes on Madeira since it is quite easy, with a well-defined path throughout the entire hike.

The starting point of the hike is not to be missed, since it’s located at the roundabout immediately after the parking area.

From the roundabout, walk down the paved steps on the left and follow the wooden boardwalk until you reach a well-defined dirt path. From here, the path is clear and easy to follow since it’s wrapped around the first section of the peninsula.

After following the path for roughly 10 minutes, you’ll reach the first viewpoint; Miradouro de São Lourenço. Depending on the time of your visit, you have two options here: one, have a short break to rest and take some photo’s, or two, head straight for Ponta do Castelo or Ponta do Furado.

Since I went before sunrise, I opted for the second option and climbed to the Ponta do Castelo viewpoint, where I waited for the sunrise to unfold, which was quite a dope experience.

From the Ponta do Castelo viewpoint, it takes another 30 minutes before you reach the stairs to the final viewpoint named Miradouro Ponta do Furado.

Once you reach the end of the trail, you’ll notice a warning sign that says it’s not allowed to climb to the viewpoint. Despite the sign, there isn’t actually a reason to be worried. Yeah, the climb is sort of steep, but in overall the way up is more than safe.

However, there must be a valid reason for the sign – so being extra cautious doesn’t hurt you.

Though I believe this section of the trail isn’t nearly as impressive as the first section, the fascinating views that you’ll get at the Miradouro Ponta do Furado viewpoint make up for a lot.

On your way back you’ll notice a small cafe named Casa do Sardinha, where you can have a short coffee break before heading back out on the trail. From here, you basically follow the same path back to the beginning of the PR8 trail. If you did the hike before sunrise, make sure you add an extra stop at the Miradouro de São Lourenço viewpoint on your way back.

Best time of day to hike Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço

As with most hikes on Madeira, the Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço is magnificent at sunrise, meaning the best time to start your hike is about one hour before the sun comes up.

While it’s possible to visit Ponta de São Lourenço at every time of day, I wouldn’t advise visiting during noon, as the light will probably be too harsh for photography – plus it can get really hot here during the day, and there’s no shelter on the trail.

Additionally, Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço makes for an excellent afternoon or sunset hike, making it perfect for those that opted for another hike in the morning or simply don’t like waking up early during the holidays.

Best time of year to hike Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço

The PR8 hike on Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço can be done year-round, however, I believe the best time to visit is during the drier months of April to October. Not only will there be little to no rainfall, but you will also experience the characteristic landscape in its otherworldly burnt-orange colourway.

If you opt for a winter getaway on Madeira, the rugged cliffs of Ponta de São Lourenço will most likely be covered by a green blanket of grass due to rainfall that occurs during the offseason.

I did the PR8 hike on Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço at the start of October and had warm and comfortable weather, despite a short rainshower halfway through the hike.

1 | Rent and drop off your car at Funchal Airport

While it’s totally possible to rent a car in the Funchal city centre, I would highly recommend picking up your rental car at the Funchal airport, directly after your flight.

By doing so, you’re not only saving quite some time, but you also save nearly €80,- worth of taxi rides, which is quite expensive considering that the Funchal city centre is only a 20-minute drive from the airport.

Also, the majority of car rental companies are situated directly at the airport, which makes it pretty convenient to rent and drop off your car here.

Nevertheless, I wouldn’t risk renting a car upon arrival, since it’s likely that the availability is limited. For that reason, I highly advise booking a car in advance (more on that later).

2 | Save money by renting your car in advance

I assume we all prefer to keep the cost of our trips low, and one of the easiest ways to do so is by sorting out your rental car in advance through a trusted online car supplier.

For car rental on Madeira, I would highly recommend the use of RentalCars; an excellent online car rental service that holds over 900 of the world’s leading rental car suppliers.

However, my best advice for car rental on Madeira is to book your car as soon as you confirm your flights since last-minute rates are remarkably higher than when you book in advance, especially during the peak summer months.

Additionally, if you want to book a rental car spontaneously when already on the island, make sure you ask at the reception of your hotel, they will most likely fix you a cheaper rate.

3 | Drive on the right-hand side of the road

Like most places in the world, you’ll be driving your car on the right side of the road. So unless you’re from the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa or a former British colony, there isn’t really a big adjustment for you

However, if you are from a left-driving country, and it’s your first time driving on the right side, allow yourself a few days to get used to handling the car in the complete opposite way.

Though I’ve never driven on the opposite side of the road myself, I can totally understand if only the thoughts of driving on the other side stressing you out already.

If that’s the case, hiring an automatic car will make things a lot easier, as you don’t have to worry about changing the gears constantly.

4 | Drive one gear lower in the mountains

Madeira is famed for its extremely picturesque mountains and the steep roads that run through them, making driving here one of the absolute highlights on the island.

However, driving these roads can be quite a challenge at times. It also requires a slightly different approach than most of us are used to, including me.

When driving uphill, I would always advise downshifting to a lower gear so your car has the extra power to handle the incline.

This rule also applies when driving downhill, as driving in a lower gear causes your car to brake on the engine, which means there’s significantly less pressure on the brakes.

Of course, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t use your brakes at all. In most cases, it is still necessary to use them, but just be a little more cautious to prevent overheated brake discs.

Also, make sure you live by this rule; don’t drive down a mountain road any faster than you drove up to it.

5 | Be extra cautious when leaving the access roads

One thing that quickly caught my attention when picking up my rental, was the fact that the access roads on Madeira were notably shorter compared to other countries I had driven.

The reason for this is that the road rules on Madeira imply that you stop your car on the access road, where you should wait until the lane is completely clear of passing cars, before inserting your own car.

Though it takes some time to get used to, I believe this rule is actually pretty good for the flow of traffic, as well as general road safety.

6 | Always fill up your tank before hitting the mountains

Winding through steep mountain roads requires significantly more fuel than your ordinary ride through the city, and filling up your car should be an absolute no-brainer before hitting the mountains.

Pair that with the absence of gas stations in the mountains, insufficient mobile services, and often only a few other people around, and you have yourself a blueprint to prevent stranding along the roadside.

So if you’re heading fort the mountains, live by this rule; fill up your car – and don’t say that I didn’t warn you!

7 | Don’t get confused by Gasolina and Gasóleo

One thing I can’t stress enough is that the Portuguese language can be quite misleading for those renting a car on Madeira.

As soon as you need to fill up your tank for the first time, you’ll notice that the words gasoline and diesel are only a few letters different from each other.

I hope this will clear up the confusion; Gasoline is Gasolina. | Diesel is Gasóleo.

If you’re not sure, don’t worry, it’s nearly always possible to quickly check with one of the gas station attendants to avoid filling up your car with the wrong fuel.

8 | Study the maps and download them to your phone

Before your road trip adventures, I advise downloading the offline map of Madeira on your Google Maps app, so you can also navigate the island when you lose phone services.

Believe me, this will happen quite often when driving in the mountains or through a tunnel.

Additionally, I would also recommend investing some time to research the best routes to take, as well as the duration to get to the highlights of your itinerary – more on that later.

9 | Plan your route in advance

Even though Madeira is pretty compact in size, you’ll be surprised how much time you could actually lose when driving from A to B.

While this obviously isn’t a problem, considering the stunning scenery along the way (trust me, you will stop a lot during your first days), it isn’t really useful if you want to make the most out of your time on Madeira.

Therefore, it’s wise to thoroughly research the highlights, and then bundle them in a logical day-to-day itinerary. I personally bundled my highlights per area. But I quickly noticed that I was a bit too enthusiastic, given the driving part took more time than I thought beforehand.

If you’re not from the logistics side of things, that’s ok. I’ve put together an easy-to-follow 10-day Madeira road trip itinerary, so make sure you check that one out too.

10 | Pick a hotel with free parking

One thing that is often overlooked when renting a car on Madeira, is the hidden expenses. One of those expenses is parking, especially if you choose to base yourself in the city centre of Funchal.

For that reason, I’d highly recommend finding yourself accommodation with free parking service before planning out your Madeira road trip itinerary.

I’ve stayed at the newly renovated Vila Baleira, an excellent hotel that provides its guests with a spacious and secured parking lot right under the property.

Add to that brilliant rooms, and a large rooftop terrace with a bar and swimming pool, and you understand why I chose Vila Baleira as my base.

Additionally, if you choose to select one of the fancy hotels in the heart of Funchal Old Town (these often don’t include parking), make sure you check out Almirante Reis Parking, where you can find relatively cheap parking space too.

11 | Sort out your insurance

Even though I never felt unsafe throughout my Madeira road trip, I wouldn’t advise anyone to travel without having their necessary insurance sorted out.

First of all, I believe it’s quite unwise to leave out the full insurance option just to lower the cost of your car rental. By adding this, in my opinion, an essential option, the supplier will fully cover the car’s excess – plus the possible damage to the windows, mirrors, wheels and tyres.

Of course, full insurance comes at a price, but with Madeira’s fluctuating driving conditions, an accident may happen far more likely too. So I would say; it’s better to be safe than sorry!

Then there is your travel insurance, which, I believe, you should always purchase when travelling abroad, especially if you’re planning a road trip on Madeira.

For travel insurance, I use Heymondo, as they offer full COVID-19 coverage, as well as a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Make sure you check it out – readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy. Additionally, I also recommend World Nomads.

12 | Prepare for quickly changing weather conditions

Given that Madeira is made almost entirely out of rugged mountains, the island is home to several different microclimates.

During my 10 days on Madeira, the roads took me to sunny coastal towns, misty forests, mountain passages above the clouds, and everything in between.

For road-trippers, it’s therefore important to know that the weather conditions could change extremely quickly on Madeira – and I mean zero to one hundred, real quick.

As you drive around the island you will have to adjust to all sorts of unpredictable weather circumstances, and it’s exactly this that makes a road trip on Madeira unique.

Where to stay on Madeira

Since Madeira is rather compact, I highly recommend anyone to base themselves in Funchal, Madeira’s vibrant capital city.

Funchal is an awesome city in its own right and is home to plenty of excellent accommodation options, is packed with history and culture, plus it has trendy restaurants and cafes at just about every corner.

To help you find suitable accommodation, I’ve listed three of my favourites below, one of which is marked – this is the place where I stayed.

+ Vila Baleira | This was my base for the whole of my trip, and if you’re seeking comfort without spending your entire budget straight away, Vila Baleira will be perfect for you too. Located within the popular Lido area, this hotel offers spacious rooms, comfortable beds, and a large rooftop terrace with a swimming pool. They also have a tasty breakfast spread, excellent wifi throughout the entire property, and a secured parking lot right under the property.

NEXT – Savoy Signature |This budget-friendly hotel in the centre of Funchal has spacious modern-style rooms with comfortable double beds and a brilliant private bathroom with a rain shower. They also have an incredible rooftop swimming pool with amazing sea views. Double rooms are only €50 per night, which makes this place one of the best picks in Funchal.

Hotel Cajú | Set within the heart of Funchal, Hotel Cajú is a great place to stay, with stylish double rooms, friendly staff, and a small yet excellent in-house fitness centre. All bookings come with exceptional breakfast too. One small downside though, they don’t have private parking.

Stay safe on Madeira | Travel insurance

Since a trip to Madeira is all about hiking and nature, I recommend everyone sort out good travel insurance before setting out on their own adventure.

Where we prefer that everything goes smoothly during our travels, something unfortunate can happen at any moment, whether it’s an injury during a hike or an accident on the road.

For travel insurance, I use Heymondo, as they offer full COVID-19 coverage, as well as a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Make sure you check it out – readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy too.