Discover Madeira

The Laurissilva has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. On Madeira, hiking trails, coastal experiences and cultural attractions complement nature watching—from the island’s easternmost point to its gardens and historical traditions.

Nature and landscapes in Madeira

Madeira Natural Park combines nature conservation and nature watching with recreation and leisure, the preservation of rural traditions and architectural heritage. Its areas include land used for agriculture and forestry, with native Laurissilva and exotic forests. The Laurissilva is therefore not only a World Heritage Site, but also part of a diverse natural and cultural heritage.

At the island’s easternmost point, Ponta de São Lourenço forms a nine-kilometre-long peninsula. The area is classified as a partial nature reserve and is home to rare plants and protected seabirds. Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço, also known as PR8, is a six-kilometre out-and-back trail. The nine kilometres refer to the peninsula, while the six kilometres refer to this specific hiking route.

Hiking trails and nature watching

Levada do Rei begins at the water treatment station in Quebradas, São Jorge. Its first section passes through an exotic forest; along the way, visitors can observe the typical agricultural landscapes of São Jorge and Santana. The route continues to Ribeiro Bonito, a secluded natural refuge with dense vegetation typical of the Laurissilva. The hike therefore showcases a range of landscapes, from agricultural areas to its lushly vegetated destination.

Water also shapes the history of the area: Moinho de Água de São Jorge is the only watermill of its kind still in operation, powered by water from Levada do Rei. Before setting out on any of Madeira’s classified PR hiking trails, reserve a time slot via the SIMplifica digital platform. Check this requirement again before your trip, as access rules may change.

If you prefer to look out to sea, you can watch whales and dolphins year-round in Madeira’s clear, calm coastal waters. The year-round opportunity for wildlife watching sets this nature experience apart from the hikes, where the route and trail length are the focus.

Gardens, traditions and culture

Jardim Botânico da Madeira covers about eight hectares, around five of which are landscaped gardens. Its collection includes more than 2,000 exotic plants from every continent. The grounds also include the Natural History Museum and a herbarium. The figures refer to two different areas: the total grounds and the landscaped section.

Madeira Theme Park in Santana covers seven hectares and offers attractions that visitors can explore, showcasing Madeira’s culture and traditions. Visitors can meet craftspeople working with wool, linen, Madeira embroidery and wickerwork. At the Quintinha, children can interact with several animals and take part in rural activities. The crafts, materials and rural pursuits bring different aspects of the island’s culture to life.

Historic sites add another dimension: in 1996, Grutas de São Vicente were among the first volcanic caves in Portugal to open to the public. In Funchal, the cable car runs for 3,200 metres between the city centre and the Monte district. The caves’ historical significance and the clearly defined endpoints of the cable car offer two very different ways to explore culture and find your bearings.

Coast, events and food

Piscinas Naturais do Porto Moniz are of volcanic origin. Their natural structure allows constant access to the sea, and the swimming area covers 3,800 m². The complex includes a children’s pool, a playground, changing rooms, a bar, a first-aid post, a car park and accessible entrances. Here, visitors can appreciate both the pools’ natural formation and the facilities available to them.

Madeira wines are an important part of the island’s culture and landscape. The SAL – Festival Gastronómico da Madeira project aims to promote the island’s gastronomic culture and heritage through various events and culinary routes. Depending on the programme for the year, the Madeira Wine Festival features concerts, exhibitions or parades. Check the official programme for the relevant year before your trip.

Madeira brings together nature watching, hikes, landscaped gardens, crafts, history and culinary experiences. As you plan your trip, consider which of these aspects interests you most: the landscapes and trails, the plant life, the cultural heritage or the coast.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Arco De São Jorge, Câmara De Lobos, Funchal, Machico, São Vicente, Prazeres, Porto Da Cruz, Madalena Do Mar, Vila Baleira, Porto Moniz, Fajã Da Ovelha, Porto Santo, Sao Jorge, Paul Do Mar, Faial, Curral Das Freiras, Serra De Água, Estreito Da Calheta, Camacha, Ponta Do Pargo, Ribeiro Frio, Boaventura, Ponta Delgada, Gaula, Caniçal, Caniço, Tabua, Quinta Grande, Lombada Velha, Campo De Cima, Seixal, Arco De Sao Jorge, Caniço, Ponta Do Sol, Curral Das Freiras, Jardim Do Mar, Vila Baleira, Sao Goncalo, Campanário, Arco Da Calheta, Madeira, Calheta.

For the main travel overview: Portugal.