Madeira is a hiker’s paradise. Its famous levadas lead you through forests, cliffs, and waterfalls that are inaccessible by car. Trails range from easy walks suitable for families to challenging routes for experienced hikers. Along the way, spot endemic birds, wild orchids, and breathtaking landscapes that make each hike unforgettable.
Many of the levadas were originally built to carry water across the island, but today they serve as scenic walking paths that bring travellers into the heart of Madeira’s untouched nature. Popular routes such as Levada do Caldeirão Verde and Levada das 25 Fontes offer access to lush laurel forests protected by UNESCO, dramatic mountain ridges, and hidden waterfalls.
For adventure lovers, sunrise hikes at Pico do Arieiro or the traverse to Pico Ruivo provide some of the most dramatic views in the Atlantic. With well-marked paths, guided tours, and year-round mild weather, Madeira offers hiking experiences suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
Exploring Madeira by car allows you to reach hidden gems, coastal viewpoints, and charming villages. Winding roads reveal stunning vistas of cliffs, ocean, and mountains. Drive to Cabo Girão, Curral das Freiras valley, or the north coast’s dramatic cliffs for unforgettable photo opportunities.
Driving through the island means discovering dramatic changes in scenery in just a few minutes: from sunny southern slopes filled with banana trees to the misty mountain passes of the Paul da Serra plateau. Many viewpoints have free parking and platforms suspended over sheer drops, perfect for taking in the rugged coastline and sparkling blue sea.
Picturesque villages such as Santana, São Vicente, Porto Moniz, or Jardim do Mar offer traditional Madeiran architecture, oceanfront cafés, natural swimming pools carved by volcanic activity, and authentic local culture that can be difficult to reach without a car.
We partner with trusted car rental companies offering competitive prices. Contact our reception to book your vehicle and enjoy the flexibility of exploring the island at your own pace. Whether it’s a compact car for city streets or a 4x4 for mountain roads, Madeira has options for every traveller.
Our rental partners provide 24/7 assistance, unlimited mileage options, child seats, GPS devices, and insurance packages tailored to your needs. With a car, you are free to stop wherever you wish — be it a roadside viewpoint, a local farm shop selling exotic fruits, or a hidden beach that catches your eye.
If you prefer not to drive, our team can also help arrange guided island tours sharing history, geology, local traditions, and the stories that make Madeira one of the most fascinating islands in the world.
