Measuring only 35 miles long and 14 miles wide, small-but-mighty Madeira offers a walking holiday in Portugal complete with flower-filled gardens, interesting cultural sites, delicious food and wine, and year-round sunshine. Our walking holidays in Madeira allow you to explore a landscape painted with thundering waterfalls, prehistoric forests, green mountains, and some of the highest sea cliffs in Europe.
Hike the iconic Levada walking trails
Something that makes Madeira walking holidays so special are the levadas – a network of irrigation channels that are used as walking trails. Carrying fresh water from the north down to the south of the island, Madeira’s signature walking trails provide around 2,500 kilometres of nature-rich hiking routes with Laurissilva forest surrounding most of them. Highlights include walks along the São Lourenço Peninsula in the east and in the foothills of Pico Ruivo - Madeira’s highest peak.
Experience Cabo Girao
When it comes to sea cliffs, there are very few that can trump Cabo Girão. The second highest in Europe, this sea cliff offers far-reaching views over Funchal in the distance and the surrounding cliffs. For those who want to take the excitement up a notch, then the glass viewing platform is a must. Test your mettle and walk across the glass floor with the waves crashing against the cliffs far below your feet.
More than just walking
Our Madeira holidays are about more than just walking. From sampling iconic Madeira wine to exploring the island’s historic capital, Funchal, our local experts make sure you experience the very best of this region.
In Funchal, there’s plenty to enjoy. Monte Palace Botanical Gardens are home to stunning, brightly coloured horticultural displays and are well worth a visit for anyone who has a keen eye for flora. As they are located overlooking the city, you’ll also be able to enjoy spectacular vistas. Elsewhere, you’ll find centuries-old architecture and a smart marina lined with seafood restaurants.
Football fans are also in for a treat with a museum dedicated to the island’s football superstar, Cristiano Ronaldo. Or if nature is more your bag, join one of the year-round whale and dolphin watching boat trips that leave from the marina.
Browse walking and special interest holidays in Madeira

If the flights we have organised are cancelled or changed, we’ll do everything we can to find alternative transport, with minimal disruption to your holiday
If we cancel your holiday, we honour all refund requests

We know that peace of mind is priceless, so we’ll always go above and beyond to meet – and exceed – expectations
If the flights we have organised are cancelled or changed, we’ll do everything we can to find alternative transport, with minimal disruption to your holiday

A British heritage brand with 111 years of experience
Offering a choice of over 260 itineraries in nearly 40 countries
Run as a co-operative with 40,000-plus members

If the flights we have organised are cancelled or changed, we’ll do everything we can to find alternative transport, with minimal disruption to your holiday
If we cancel your holiday, we honour all refund requests

We know that peace of mind is priceless, so we’ll always go above and beyond to meet – and exceed – expectations
If the flights we have organised are cancelled or changed, we’ll do everything we can to find alternative transport, with minimal disruption to your holiday

A British heritage brand with 111 years of experience
Offering a choice of over 260 itineraries in nearly 40 countries
Run as a co-operative with 40,000-plus members
© 2026 HF Holidays Limited. Registered in England, number 5713R. VAT Number 125 4899 87. All Rights Reserved.
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