Tourists especially hikers and those not afraid of heights, often avail of walking tours along the levadas. If not a seasoned trekker, fret not. You could still enjoy a Madeira walking tour since there are travel agencies that design their tours and packages depending on the tourist’s ability to endure vigorous walking. Madeira Orchid Travel categorised their one-day packages per distance and time to cover a Levada walk. For beginners, Levada Do Alecrim, a Short Walk of 6.5 km course is recommended. Waterfalls, lakes and lush vegetation will regale vacationists in addition to birds and cows distinct to the region. If desiring to view the panoramic beauty of the village of Ponta do Sol, hikers should avail of the Levada Do Moinho trail. Considered a Medium Walk, with a distance of 9km, the 4-hour walk includes the sights of several water mills, the ruins of Levada Grande Mill, Achadas Mill and Cancelas Mill will provide for a hauntingly beautiful background for your Instagram selfie. And in case 6.5 or 9 km isn’t enough, why not avail of one of the 13 km Long Walks? The Queimadas Park / Levada Caldeirão Verde is a 5-hour route that starts in the Queimadas Forestry Park. The slope might be steep, and the journey will pass through 4 tunnels (so maybe not for claustrophobics) but towards the end is the Caldeirão Verde Lake, a lake formed by a 100-metre high waterfall.
Of course, Madeira also offers the usual tourist activities. The cerulean waters of this island provide for the best diving experience with a chance to see sea lions, anemones and moray eels. If travelling with family, catamaran tours will give the kids a chance to see giant tortoises, whales and dolphins.
One of the most unique experience guests will come across in Madeira is the “Monte sledge”, also called “toboggan ride” is originally a means of transportation in the 1850s for people living in Monte. These toboggan sledges are still in use today, mostly by tourists who wanted the rush of a 10-minute toboggan ride on the winding streets down to Funchal. The two-seater wicker sledges are steered by two “carreiros “ who use their boots as brakes.
Foodies will also definitely enjoy Madeira. “Espetada” (skewered beef) is a typical Madeiran dish. Served with “Bolo do caco” (bread made with sweet potatoes) and salad, fried and fried maize, it is one of the entrees that first-time guests sample upon arrival. Black Scabbard fish which is only available in select places in the world is also a must try. The fish is filleted and is seasoned with lemon juice, garlic, pepper and salt. Potatoes and salad complement the fish as side dishes. Don’t forget to also taste Madeiran Wine since the island has a long winemaking history that dates back to the end of the 15th century.
Be it for relaxation or adrenaline-inducing adventure, Madeira has unlimited attractions and activities to suit everyone’s preference. This island welcomes everyone and perhaps you might be lucky to cross path with Christiano Ronaldo, the Madeira born 5 times FIFA World of the Year Player awardee.