Wild Landscapes of Madeira
Measuring only 35 miles long and 14 miles wide, small-but-mighty Madeira wows visitors with gorgeous, flower-filled landscapes, interesting cultural sites, delicious food and wine, plus year-round sunshine. Our holiday on this Portuguese island introduces you to a landscape crisscrossed with levadas (irrigation channels used as walking trails), thundering waterfalls, prehistoric forests, green mountains, and sea cliffs that soar high above the Atlantic Ocean. You’ll also have time to explore Funchal - the charming capital best known for its cathedral, colourful farmers’ market, and seafood restaurants.
What you’ll love
- Exploring the island’s rugged landscape
- Taking on Cabo Girao, the highest glass skywalk in Europe
- Discovering emerald-green mountains and dramatic coastlines
- Visiting Funchal, Madeira’s picturesque captial
- Following the island’s famous levadas to stunning waterfalls
- Sampling Madeira's famous fortified wine
What’s included
- Full programme of guided walks led by local HF Holidays Leaders
- HF Holidays Tour Manager
- Comfortable accommodation
- Half-board (breakfast and evening meal)
- All sightseeing and entrance fees (as per itinerary)
- Air-conditioned transport
- Return flights from the UK including hold baggage and airport transfers
Trip Notes
Easy to download as a PDF, our trip notes provide detailed information for every holiday. Please click below to find the trip notes for your departure date.
All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take alternative routes or adapt the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.
Welcome to Hotel Galosol. Unpack and settle in.
Today we visit the second highest sea cliff in Europe, the Cabo Girao. This high viewpoint has now been enhanced with a breathtaking glass viewing platform.
Option 1 - Cabo Girao & Levada do Norte
Distance: 7½ miles (12km)
Total ascent: Minimal
In summary: We firstly visit the famous high cliff of Cabo Girao (Europe’s second highest sea cliff) for views and a little excitement. Test your nerve on the glass floored viewing platform high above the sea and new vineyards below. After coffee we continue by coach to commence our first levada walk on the Levada do Norte. This levada gives us splendid views out to sea and leads us eventually to viewpoints over the dramatic gorge of the Ribeira Brava.
Highlight: Take a deep breath and step out onto the Cabo Girao viewing platform - the views are staggering.
Option 2 - Cabo Girao & Levada do Facho
Distance: 11 miles (18km)
Total ascent:130 feet (40m)
In summary: We also visit the Cabo Girao and after visiting the viewing platform will commence a descent to Levado do Facho, with views over vineyards and the town of Camara de Lobos. After a short walk through a levada tunnel and the western side of the Cabo Girao promontory we join the start of the easier walk to Boa Morte and views of the Ribeira Brava gorge.
Highlight: We'll get great views of the Cabo Girao cliffs from all angles; the viewing platform, from the levadas and even from the inside as we pass through a short tunnel in the cliff.
Today our walks take us to the north of the island on two exciting routes in the Sao Roque Valley. 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: 9 miles (15km)
Total ascent: 700 feet (210m)
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 and enter the Ribeira Brava Gorge. The coach will then take us high onto the western moors. This end 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.
Option 1 - The Moorland Levada
Distance: 8.5 miles (13.7km)
Total ascent: 100 feet (30m)
Total descent: 1,000 feet (300m)
In summary: Today’s 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.
Highlight: Rabacal is considered one of Madeira's most beautiful areas.
Option 2 - Four Levadas in a day
Distance: 9 miles (14½km)
Ascent: 200 feet (60m)
Descent: 900 feet (300m)
In summary: Following the Levada do Paul, we have sweeping views down to the south coast. 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.
Highlight: Traverse three of the five Levadas in the Ribeira da Janela valley.
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. Some options for your free day may include:
Hotel: Have a relaxing day enjoying the facilities of the hotel or book an activity with Loko Loko Adventure Activity. This can be a tour of the island by bus, jeep, or boat. Other options include horse riding or bike hire.
Funchal: Take the local bus into Funchal and explore further, including a visit to the Monte Palace Tropical Gardens via cable car from the seafront. Absorb the colours and scents of the flower markets, do a spot of shopping or visit one of the city’s museums.
Today's walks take us to the north coast on the eastern side of Madeira.
Option 1 - Ribeira Seca
Distance: 6 miles (10km)
Ascent: 660ft (200m)
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 (12km)
Ascent: 660 feet (200m)
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
Our walks on our final day are at the far eastern end of the island.
Option 1 - Canical and Coast
Distance: 2.5 miles (4km)
Ascent: 500 feet (150m)
In summary: We start our day in the town of Canical on the most easterly part of the island. From the Sao Lourenco peninsula, our coastal walk provides great views of the dramatic sea cliffs. At the end of the walk, we'll return to Canical by boat and enjoy free time to explore its cafes and museums.
Highlight: Exploring the colourful and vibrant fishing village of Canical.
Option 2 - Canical and Sao Lourenco
Distance: 5 miles (8km)
Ascent: 1150 feet (350m)
In summary: This option follows the same route as the first, but after returning to Canical by boat the walk continues along the Levada do Canical for views over the Canical fishing village, terraced farm plots, and the Sao Lourenco peninsula.
Highlight: This is a spectacular stretch of coast with views to match.
We hope to see you again soon.
Hotel Galosol - Madeira
A short bus ride from Funchal, and occupying an enviable position on the southeast coast, the clifftop 4-star Hotel Galosol offers fine views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Ilhas Desertas and the rocky Madeiran shore. The hotel is located within the resort of Caniço de Baixo, a residential area with shops and a few local restaurants. The hotel has an impressive range of facilities including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, gym and wellness centre.
Rooms
The hotel has 123 spacious en-suite bedrooms.
These air conditioned rooms are bright and offer modern, comfortable beds. The warm Mediterranean colours and decoration create a cosy atmosphere. The balcony comes with table and chairs - a great place to sit and gaze at the view.
Satellite TV with English channels is standard, as is the radio channel. Rooms also contain a minibar, kettle with tea and coffee, safe and swimming towels. The spacious bathrooms/WC are equipped with a large mirror, vanity mirror, hairdryer and have either a bath tub or a large shower.
About your stay
Guests have free use of Onda Revital Club, offering fitness classes, weekly morning jogging and yoga. The Wellness Centre has an indoor pool, saunas and Jacuzzi. There are outdoor and indoor pools.
There is a weekly entertainment programme including some live music. The bar and coffee shop overlook the sea. As well as the main restaurant there are several bars on site.
Wi-Fi is free throughout the public areas of the hotel.
Food & drink
Our holidays in Madeira are on a half-board basis and include breakfast and evening meal.
Breakfast
The buffet breakfast, served from 7.30am until 10am includes a variety of breads, jams, spreads, yogurt, cheese, fresh vegetables, muesli-bar, cereals, soft-boiled eggs, freshly cooked scrambled or fried eggs, omelettes and fresh fruit salad. There may also be some seasonal fruit such as bananas, passion fruit, papaya, melon and orange.
Lunch (payable locally)
You may be able to purchase a picnic lunch from the hotel. Alternatively it is possible to buy ingredients from local shops or on some days to eat at one of the local cafés; your leaders will advise you of the options.
Evening meal
This meal is a buffet and available from 6.30pm until 9pm. The hotel prides itself on serving fresh, locally sourced produce and offers daily meat, fish and vegetarian selections, plus plenty of salads. For dessert there are fruit pastries, delicious cakes and other fresh cream desserts. Tea and coffee is served after the meal.
Drinks
The hotel has a well-stocked bar serving beer, wine and spirits.
Your evenings
Each evening your leaders will tell you about the the next day's activities and answer any questions you may have. During the evening you may like to join in an optional organised activity, such as a quiz, or chat in the bar overlooking the sea.
Getting to Hotel Galosol - Madeira
Find out more about this location including travel details and room types.
More InformationEssential information
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
Guest reviews
All holidays are subject to availability. Supplements may apply.
Non-member fee: £30 per person.
All packages that include flights are ATOL protected. Advertised prices listed below show the lowest economy flight price option for that departure. On holidays where we offer local UK airports, details will appear in the “Important Information” section below and available alternative flight options will be offered when you book. Seating upgrades may be available on request and at an additional charge, please call 020 3974 8865 for a quote.
| Date (Start - End) | Itinerary | Double / Twin Room | Single Room | Notes / Offers | Trip Notes | Book | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | ||||||||
|
29 Jan - 05 Feb 2024 7 nights |
Itinerary Flight from London Heathrow Airport Single from £1,842 Double from £1,639 pp |
from £1,639 pp |
from £1,842 |
Trip Notes | Enquire | |||
|
05 Feb - 12 Feb 2024 7 nights |
Itinerary Flight from London Heathrow Airport
Single Call to Enquire
Double from £1,639 pp |
from £1,639 pp |
Call to Enquire | Trip Notes | Book Now | |||
|
12 Feb - 19 Feb 2024 7 nights |
Itinerary Flight from London Heathrow Airport Single from £1,942 Double from £1,739 pp |
from £1,739 pp |
from £1,942 |
Trip Notes | Book Now | |||
|
26 Feb - 04 Mar 2024 7 nights |
Itinerary Flight from London Heathrow Airport Single from £1,942 Double from £1,739 pp |
from £1,739 pp |
from £1,942 |
Trip Notes | Book Now | |||
|
04 Mar - 11 Mar 2024 7 nights |
Itinerary Flight from London Heathrow Airport Single from £1,982 Double from £1,639 pp |
from £1,639 pp |
from £1,982 |
Trip Notes | Book Now | |||
| Date (Start - End) | Itinerary | Double / Twin Room | Single Room | Notes / Offers | Trip Notes | Book | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | ||||||||
|
29 Jan - 05 Feb 2024 7 nights |
Itinerary Single from £1,572 Double from £1,369 pp |
from £1,369 pp |
from £1,572 |
Trip Notes | Book Now | |||
|
05 Feb - 12 Feb 2024 7 nights |
Itinerary
Single Call to Enquire
Double from £1,369 pp |
from £1,369 pp |
Call to Enquire | Trip Notes | Book Now | |||
|
12 Feb - 19 Feb 2024 7 nights |
Itinerary Single from £1,572 Double from £1,369 pp |
from £1,369 pp |
from £1,572 |
Trip Notes | Book Now | |||
|
26 Feb - 04 Mar 2024 7 nights |
Itinerary Single from £1,572 Double from £1,369 pp |
from £1,369 pp |
from £1,572 |
Trip Notes | Book Now | |||
|
04 Mar - 11 Mar 2024 7 nights |
Itinerary Single from £1,702 Double from £1,359 pp |
from £1,359 pp |
from £1,702 |
Trip Notes | Book Now | |||
|
11 Mar - 18 Mar 2024 7 nights |
Itinerary Single from £1,842
Double Call to Enquire
|
Call to Enquire |
from £1,842 |
Trip Notes | Book Now | |||
Important information
- With flights holidays: Price includes return flights to Funchal Airport, hold baggage and airport transfers
- Regional flights: Please click BOOK NOW to view alternative UK airport options
- Our airport taxi service operates at this resort – price available on request
7 nights
from
£1,639pp
with flights
Winter sun
or call 020 3974 8865
For group bookings of 10+ guests click here
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