7-Day Cycling Adventure around the Island

Exploring Madeira Island by Bike

If you’re eager to embark on a cycling adventure across Madeira Island, you’ve come to the right place. We’re here to offer you valuable insights for creating your personalized bike tour or even organizing an entire cycling vacation, whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or with your family.

Our Classic: A 7-Day Cycling Expedition Around Madeira

Our classic cycling experience involves a week-long journey to discover the most captivating corners of the island. This adventure is designed for both experienced cyclists in excellent physical shape, equipped with racing bikes, and those who prefer a more leisurely pace, opting for e-bikes, making it suitable for occasional riders.

We’ll provide you with the perfect bike, comprehensive tour itineraries, well-suited accommodations, and seamless airport transfers. Your worries will fade away as you hop on your bike and set out to savor the mesmerizing natural beauty of Madeira.

Exploring Madeira’s Splendors on Two Wheels

As you traverse the island by bike, you’ll trace scenic coastal roads, wind through enchanting laurel forests, traverse the lofty plateau, pass cascading waterfalls, and relish the awe-inspiring vistas of mountains and the Atlantic Ocean. It’s an immersion in pure nature.

But fear not, you won’t miss out on the island’s main attractions either. Your journey will encompass visits to natural seawater pools in Porto Moniz, the charming Madeira houses in Santana, the historic town of Machico, the idyllic fishing village of Camara de Lobos, the glass skywalk at Cabo Girao, and, of course, the bustling capital city, Funchal. These are just a glimpse of the highlights awaiting you on your island expedition.

Our All-Inclusive Tour Package

Your journey begins at Madeira airport, where a dedicated driver awaits you, ready to whisk you away to your hotel in Funchal.

Depending on your arrival time, you’ll receive your bike from us either on the same day or the following morning. The bike comes equipped with a luggage rack, saddlebags, a water bottle, a bike lock, and a tool kit. A helmet is also provided for your safety. Should you encounter any issues during your ride, our 24-hour assistance is just a call away.

You’ll receive a comprehensive tour description, either in printed form or easily accessible via your mobile device. Furthermore, we’re always thrilled to offer you individual recommendations and tips.

Along your journey, you’ll stay in charming, intimate hotels. Should you desire a touch of luxury, we’ve got you covered with our upgrade option. You’ll receive the hotel voucher in advance, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Arrive, check-in, and unwind. The next morning, you can savor a delightful breakfast, gearing up for another day of exploring the wonders of Madeira.

The final two days of your adventure will be spent in Funchal, offering you the option to explore the city’s inland attractions, bask by your hotel’s pool, or delve into the myriad sights of the vibrant capital.

Sadly, every great adventure must come to an end, and our driver will transport you back to the airport. One thing is certain, though: after experiencing Madeira by bike in this unique fashion, you’ll fall head over heels for the island, and we look forward to welcoming you back soon.

The Itinerary

Daily stages range from 40km to 65km in length. While not overly strenuous, the varying altitude and the need to savor the breathtaking landscapes might require more time than you expect. Keep your camera at the ready, as each bend reveals a new, awe-inspiring vista, and the charming towns along the route beckon for exploration.

Starting in Funchal, your journey unfolds along the island’s southern coast to the east, reaching Machico, Madeira’s oldest city. Here, you can leisurely stroll along the promenade in the evening, explore the quaint old town with its pubs and restaurants, or unwind on the sandy beach.

Continuing along the east coast, your route leads you to Santana, known for its iconic Madeira houses. However, Santana has even more to offer; the theme park provides insight into the island’s history. For the adventurous spirits, a cable car ride to the “Rocha do Navio” nature reserve is an option, leading to a secluded beach where farmers toil on their fields.

The scenery transforms as you reach the untamed and romantic north coast of Madeira. Passing through the picturesque town of Sao Vicente, with its car-free old town worth exploring, you’ll eventually arrive at Porto Moniz, one of the island’s most impressive highlights. The natural lava pools are a must-visit during any Madeira vacation, offering an opportunity for a refreshing dip.

After breakfast, your journey ascends to the Paul da Serra plateau, where you’ll cycle above the Rabaçal laurel forests, an area reminiscent of Ireland, thanks to the contented cows that occasionally graze along the paths. Crossing the entire island, you’ll reach Calheta in the southwest, a town with a welcoming marina and a lovely sandy beach for relaxation.

The return to Funchal takes you along the southern coast. Notable stops along the way include the Anjos waterfall in Ponta do Sol, the glass skywalk at Cabo Girao, the second-highest cliff globally, and the charming fishing village of Camara de Lobos, famous for Winston Churchill’s paintings. Be sure to savor the island’s national drink, the poncha.

On your final day, you have a multitude of choices. Would you prefer an inland bike tour to explore the island’s highest peak or the basket-weaving town of Camacha? Or perhaps, a leisurely stroll through Funchal’s historic district, the bustling market hall, and the grand cathedral? If you’ve never witnessed dolphins and whales, you’ll have the opportunity on an exciting boat tour from Funchal. Alternatively, you can relax by the hotel pool. If you’re up for all these activities, no worries; we offer an extension week for the ultimate Madeira experience.