Festive Walking in Madeira

On Offer

7 nights accommodation

Availability Dec 2026

One itinerary available

Half Board

Grades 2 & 3 details

978kg CO2 details

Non-members From

£2,049

pp

Inc flights

Members From

£1,999

pp

Inc flights

For group booking of 10 or more please click here
Madeira now comes with a festive twist. This special Christmas departure combines scenic walks, mild winter weather, and the vibrant atmosphere of Funchal’s markets and celebrations. Guests stay in a centrally located adults-only hotel, perfectly placed for the city’s festivities. The well-paced holiday is designed for active adults blending iconic landscapes with seasonal charm—an appealing addition to our portfolio at a peak travel time.

Accommodation

A range of handpicked hotels...
We are staying at Twin Land View Rooms, sea view room available at a supplement. Set on the hills overlooking Funchal Bay, The Views Baía Hotel offers a peaceful adult‑only escape with a cosmopolitan atmosphere and some of the best views on the island. Guests can enjoy the region’s gastronomy, with traditional Portuguese flavours given a tropical twist, fresh fish, and carefully selected local produce.
The Baia Views192-A-exterior_85149492.jpg

Walking grades and options

This is a level 2 and level 3 graded Activity, Easier walks: 5 to 9 miles (8 to 14½km) on good paths, with some rocky sections. Up to 700 feet (210m) of ascent in a day. Harder walks: 7 to 11 miles (11 to 17½km) on good paths with some steep ascents and descents. There are also some rocky sections. Up to 1,300 feet (390m) of ascent in a day.


What You’ll Love

  • Buffet-style Christmas Gala Dinner with drinks (24th Dec) – a joyful evening spent together with fellow walkers.
  • Free Christmas Day (25th Dec) – time to relax, explore Funchal’s festive spirit, or simply enjoy the mild climate.
  • Centrally located adults-only hotel – perfect for easy access to Funchal’s Christmas markets, lights, and seasonal celebrations.
  • Explore Madeira’s rugged landscapes – from dramatic coastlines to emerald-green mountains.
  • Step onto Cabo Girão – Europe’s highest glass skywalk with breathtaking views.
  • Follow the famous levadas – scenic trails leading to stunning waterfalls.
  • Sample Madeira’s renowned fortified wine – a taste of the island’s heritage.

What's Included

  • Return flights from London Gatwick, including baggage and transfers (flights available from other airports - price may vary)
  • A choice of 2 guided walks per day with local leaders (on walking days)
  • HF Holidays Tour Manager
  • 7 nights' accommodation in Funchal
  • 7 breakfasts & 7 dinners with drinks including a buffet-style Christmas Gala Dinner (24th Dec)
  • All in-destination transport

Reviews


Itinerary

Christmas

Welcome to hotel. Unpack and settle in

Today our walks take us to the north of the island on two exciting routes in the Sao Roque Valley to Porto da Cruz. Our day will include a visit to the pretty bay of Porto da Cruz.

Option 1 - Into the North of the Island

Distance: 6 miles (10km)

Total ascent: 260 feet (80m)

Total descent: 0 feet (0m)

In summary:  Starting from Cruz we ascend through farmland to join the Levada Castelejo. We follow the Levada upstream to enjoy views of the spectacular gorge before turning and following the Levada Castelejo and the Levada Nova through the quiet countryside to Referta.

Highlight: Exploring one of the greenest and most unspoiled valleys in Madeira followed by a visit to a seaside village.

Option 2 - Lombo Grande

Distance: 7 miles (11km)

Total ascent: 950 feet (290m)

Total descent: 1130 feet (345m)

In summary: Starting in the village of Roque do Faial we ascend through small farms to Lombo Grande then descend through woods to join the Levada Castelejo. The route follows the beautiful Sao Roque valley to Cruz and then on to Referta.

Highlight: Following a levada from its source, along a spectacular valley

Our walks today take us to the western end of the island. We’ll travel past Funchal before entering the Ribeira Brava Gorge. The coach will then take us high onto the western moors. This side of the island differs greatly from the high volcanic peaks in the east. Here rolling moorland offers views over the sea in both directions on a clear day. Torches are useful on this day, when walking through one of the levada tunnels, which is 800m longBefore returning to the hotel we call at the dramatic Cabo Girao skywalk viewpoint.

Option 1 - The Moorland Levada

Distance: 6 miles (10km)

Total ascent: 100 feet (30m)

Total descent: 985 feet (300m)

In summary: Our walk follows a gentle levada path to a lovely viewpoint over the hills and woods of Rabacal before descending to Levada das 25 Fontes which will lead us via a tunnel through a mountain ridge to meet our coach. Before returning to the hotel, we'll stop to experience the magnificent Cabo Girao glass skywalk.

Highlight: Rabacal is considered one of Madeira's most beautiful areas.

Option 2 - Four Levadas in a day

Distance: 7 miles (11.5km)

Ascent: 460 feet (140m)

Descent: 985 feet (300m)

In summary: Following the Levada do Alecrim, we have sweeping views down the Rabaçal valley. Our route continues with views of the deep Ribeira da Janela valley, descending through woodland to a rock pool perched between two waterfalls. Our walk ends on the Levada 25 Fontes. Before returning to the hotel, we'll stop to take in the scenery at the Cabo Girao viewpoint.

Highlight: Traverse three of the five Levadas in the Rabaçal valley.

We'll journey to the centre of the wonderful island of Madeira and marvel at Pico Ruivo, the island’s highest peak at 1861m.

Today is a public holiday, so some shops and local attractions might be closed; however, our planned itinerary will remain unchanged.
 
Join us this evening for a gala dinner and help make it unforgettable by dressing in smart attire.

 

Each week there is a free day when no guided walks are offered. This is an ideal opportunity to relax around the hotel, walk independently or visit local places of interest.

Christmas Day is a public holiday so some attractions and services may not be available in Funchal and surrounding areas.

Our walks today are at the far eastern end of the island. Walk along the São Lourenço peninsula and take a boat trip to the fishing village of Caniçal.

Today is a public holiday, so some shops and local attractions might be closed; however, our planned itinerary will remain unchanged.

Today's walks take us to the north coast on the eastern side of Madeira.

Option 1 - Ribeira Seca

Distance: 5 miles (8km) 

Ascent: 690ft (210m)

Descent: 1150 feet (350m)

In summary: This walk takes us above the Ribeira Seca to the viewpoint at Boca do Risco. After a picnic we'll walk along the coast path that was once used to carry wine and rum from the Porto da Cruz to Machico. Continuing along this path, we'll make our way towards the outskirts of Porto da Cruz where we'll be met by our transfer that will take us back to the hotel.

Highlight: The views across the coastline from Boca do Risco.

Option 2 - Ribeira Seca and Porto da Cruz

Distance: 7.5 miles (10km)

Ascent: 690 feet (210m)

Descent: 1150 feet (350m)

In summary: Our longer walk follows the same route as option 1 but lengthens things by continuing along the coast path all the way into Porto da Cruz.

Highlight: The views of the coastline from Boca do Risco

We hope to see you again soon.

Daily Walk Options

Grade 2

Easier Walks

Good paths but walks are a bit longer. Some walks, particularly in mountain areas, may have sections over rough or steeper terrain.

Grade 3

Medium Walks

Walks follow well-defined paths, though often in hilly or upland areas, or along rugged coastal footpaths. These may be rough or steep in sections and will require reasonable fitness.

Accommodation

Hotel The Views Baía 4* - Adults Only

We are staying at Twin Land View Rooms, sea view room available at a supplement. Set on the hills overlooking Funchal Bay, The Views Baía Hotel offers a peaceful adult‑only escape with a cosmopolitan atmosphere and some of the best views on the island. Guests can enjoy the region’s gastronomy, with traditional Portuguese flavours given a tropical twist, fresh fish, and carefully selected local produce.

This adults-only hotel is designed for a more elevated stay, combining stylish design and serene surroundings.

Heated outdoor pool with pool bar (open daily 10am–6pm).

Woogie Boogie cocktail Bar open from 6 pm to midnight.

Spa open until 8pm.

Wi-Fi is free throughout the public areas of the hotel.

The hotel provides a courtesy shuttle bus five times a day (excluding weekends and public holidays).

The hotel is home to Desarma Restaurant, a Michelin one‑star rooftop venue offering a fine dining experience with panoramic views over Funchal. The restaurant is open Tuesday to Saturday, with evening seatings available between 7:00 pm and 9:00 pm. Please note that dining here is not included in the holiday cost and must be pre‑booked in advance directly with the restaurant.

Our holidays in Madeira are offered on a half‑board basis, including buffet breakfast served at BayView Restaurant from 7:30am to 10:00am and buffet dinner from 6:30pm to 9:00pm. Half board also includes a choice of alcoholic or soft drink during along with coffee or tea after the meal. On 24 December 2026, during the Gala Dinner, drinks are included as usual, but coffee and tea are not served.

Lunch (payable locally)

Guests have several convenient options for lunch during their stay. The hotel offers the possibility to pre‑order packed or picnic lunches (from €7–15 for a generous picnic), while nearby shops and cafés provide alternative choices. The Plaza Madeira Shopping Centre, located just a 10‑minute downhill walk from the hotel, is perfect for picking up supplies. For a lighter option, sandwiches can be purchased at local supermarkets for around €3–4.

The hotel has 238 en-suite bedrooms spread over nine floors.

Traditional in style, with small balconies, fridge, kettle, tea/coffee facilities, and safe.

Sea View Rooms: Same facilities as Land View, but with stunning city and ocean vistas.

More Information

Vaccinations & health information EU NEW 2026

Before booking, you should check with your doctor to see whether any health precautions are needed for your trip. Health advice and requirements can change, so we recommend doing this in good time before travel.

As a general rule, travellers should ensure they are up to date with routine UK vaccinations and boosters, including, for example, MMR and diphtheria, tetanus and polio. Some countries may require you to have specific vaccinations such as Malaria, Rabies and Yellow Fever. Please check with your GP if you are unsure.

Please note that the use or possession of some common prescription or over-the-counter medicines is restricted or banned in certain countries. If you will be carrying medication, you should check with the relevant embassy or consulate before travelling. As an extra precaution, we recommend keeping medication in its original packaging, carrying a copy of your prescription, and, where possible, asking your pharmacist to provide the medication name in the language of the country you are visiting.

For further country-specific health advice, visit www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk or www.traveldoctor.co.uk. If you are travelling from outside the UK, please consult your own doctor and check local entry requirements.

 

Passport & Visa information - SHARED FOR ALL EU NEW 2026

This information is for those travelling with a full ‘British Citizen’ passport; for all other nationalities or passport holders, please check with your local consulate for advice.

Passport Requirements

This information applies to travellers holding a full British Citizen passport. Entry requirements vary by destination and can change at short notice. For most EU and worldwide destinations, passports must be valid for the entire duration of your stay. Some countries also require a minimum period of validity remaining on your passport (often up to 6 months beyond your return date), even if you are not staying that long.
We strongly recommend ensuring your passport has at least six months’ validity remaining at the time of travel to avoid any issues.

If you hold a different type of British passport or a passport issued by another country, you must check the requirements with the relevant embassy, consulate, or official government website.

Visa Requirements

Visa rules depend on your nationality, destination, length of stay, and purpose of travel, and they can change frequently. It is your responsibility to check whether you require a visa before travelling.
British passport holders should check the latest entry, passport validity and visa requirements for their destination on the UK government’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) website:
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

 

 

Packing list - Festive Walking in Madeira

It's best to be prepared for all weather conditions. To make it easier, here is a list of items you should consider packing.   

Essentials  

  • Walking boots 
  • Waterproof jacket 
  • Waterproof trousers 
  • Insulated jacket/top 
  • Walking clothing  
  • Walking socks (plus spares)  
  • Sunhat 
  • Gloves/mitts and warm hat
  • Water bottle (minimum 2 litre capacity)  
  • Headtorch 
  • High-factor sunscreen (minimum SPF 30)  
  • Sunglasses with a dark lens 
  • Rucksack (15-30 litres)  
  • Mobile phone 
  • Personal first aid kit (containing your medication, blister plasters, etc.) 
  • Passport 
  • Visa (if applicable) 
  • Copy of your travel insurance policy 
  • UK Global Health Insurance Card (formerly known as EHIC

Recommended

  • Collapsible walking poles 
  • Swimwear and travel towel
  • Snacks
  • Dry bags
  • Rubbish bags
  • Insect repellent

Optional extras

  • Camera 
  • Sit mat
  • Flask for hot drinks 
  • Durable lunch box
  • Gaiters 
  • GPS device (excluding Bhutan, Georgia and India)

With flights EU & WW

Book your holiday ‘with flights’ and you can choose to depart from a range of UK airports* to your destination. For latest flight times and prices please call us on 0203-974-8865 or email reservations@hfholidays.co.uk  

If you choose to book your flights with us, we automatically include return transfers between the destination airport and hotel.  

Without flights EU

Alternatively, tailor your journey to suit you by booking your holiday ‘without flights’ and you’ll have the freedom to book your own flights from your local airport.   

*Subject to availability 

Local Currency in Madeira

The local currency in Madeira is the Euro. It is advisable to carry some euro cash with you, as certain toilets along walking routes, as well as cafés and shops in more remote areas, may only accept cash.

Carbon Footprint - 978kg CO2

We see it as our responsibility to minimise our emissions, not just for this year but every year to come. Our work with sustainability experts, ecollective, has enabled us to measure our carbon footprint and create a strategy to reduce the carbon intensity of our product by 5% each year. Our ambition is to be net zero by 2040 – earlier if we can.

Learn more

Reviews

Code: MAD07-LXL09

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Dates & availability

Festive Walking in Madeira

Members save an additional £50 on this booking and get a range of other exclusive benefits. You can join during booking process. Read more about membership

2026

Save £100 Per Person

21 Dec - 28 Dec 2026

7 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£2,149 £2,049

£1,799 £1,699

pp

Members

£2,099 £1,999

£1,749 £1,649

pp
Single rooms

£2,149 £2,049

pp

£2,099 £1,999

pp

£1,799 £1,699

pp

£1,749 £1,649

pp
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Trusted British co-operative

We are proud to be Britain’s only walking holiday co-operative. Led by almost 40,000 members, offering hundreds of holidays across the UK and overseas, with all surplus being reinvested back into our Society.

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Flexible choice of guided walks

Experienced volunteer HF Leaders guide every walk at our UK country houses, offering up to three daily options. Making it easy to find a holiday to suit your ability, and with the flexibility to switch grades each walking day.

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Book early with confidence

Become an HF Member to benefit from our Price Pledge. Secure your first choice of holiday early, and if the cost drops after you book, we will automatically refund the difference (exc. travel agent & group bookings).

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Book with confidence

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 

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Travel with confidence

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

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HF Holidays

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

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