Madeira – An Island Adventure

After the transfer to Camacha, you will have time to explore the village, famous for its basket making. This practical souvenir is of course offered directly from the producers. You will then cycle on a lovely elevated road right towards the East Coast. Enjoy the beautiful views on the way to the little fishing village, Porto da Cruz. Relax here on the beach made from volcano sand or visit one of the last working sugar cane mills.

A long, steep ascent will be bridged by bus this morning. In Santana, you will start today’s ride. Beforehand you should, however, visit the true Madeiran landmark. The traditional, thatched farmhouses have been lovingly restored to their former glory. The route today goes along a beautiful road through small, charming villages whilst always running along the length of the East Coast until you get to Sao Vicente. The village, named after Saint Vincent, is located right by the sea. It is however well-known for its 400,000-year-old grottoes.

To begin with, you go in the mountains today! A transfer will take you to the high plateau Paúl da Serra. From here, you get on your bike and follow the high road past grazing cows and sheep. A long descent will then lead you to the West Coast of the island. Before you get to Porto Moniz, a spectacular view will leave you breathless as the ocean opens up in front of you. Where you are staying tonight is well-known for its natural swimming pools. The sea formed small and large pools, which are popular places to swim by both locals and tourists.

Today’s ride takes in the West Coast and right through the UNESCO world heritage site in Madeira. You will cycle through fragrant forests and through small villages and you will always be accompanied by spectacular views of the ocean below. After every curve, you get a new best photo of the day. In the lively village Calheta, it was not only the yacht harbour that was rebuilt. For the artificial beach, sand was specially imported from Morocco. The former sugar cane village has become a popular place for locals to meet.

For the first third of today‘s ride, you will cycle directly along the waterside towards the capital. From Ribeira Brava, the route takes you uphill away from the coast and then you will reach the most spectacular viewing point on the island. At Cabo Girao, a transparent platform was built 580m above the sea. The view down over the highest cliffs in Europe is dizzying. A long descent will then bring you back to the coast and then into the centre of Funchal. Colourful and lively are two strong impressions you will get from the capital of this island.

The cable car will take you on your bike free day to the popular destination of Monte. Previously a noble health resort with grand Quintas, this area offers many possibilities nowadays for an interesting day.  You can visit the pilgrimage church Nossa Senhora do Monte do Monte and the tropical garden Jardim Tropical Monte Palace. You could also go for a lovely walk along the famous waterway, the “Levadas”. You will see that Madeira also isn’t boring without a bike…

Depart after breakfast.