Italian Archives - Thisismadeiraisland

We begin our excursion with a visit to Pico dos Barcelos (panoramic view over the city of Funchal ). Next, on to Eira do Serrado, a view site situated at 1094m altitude, overlooking the village of Curral das Freiras (Nuns Valley). Our trip continues to the village of Monte where you may visit its gardens and the church of Our Lady of Monte, patron saint of the island.

Descent in the famous baskets toboggans (not include). Return to the hotel.

Departure to Câmara de Lobos, the fishing village where the famous “espada” or black scabbard is fished. Next, we pass by Cabo Girão ( Europe ´s highest sea cliff , at 580m) and continue our trip along the coast to Ribeira Brava. From Ponta de Sol we begin our ascent to the plateau of Paúl da Serra (at 1400m).

Descent to Porto Moniz, where you may admire the natural pools. Stop for lunch (not included). Return trip along the northern coast, passing by Seixal and São Vicente. Climb to Encumeada (1700m) where you have a view of the sea on both coasts. Return to Funchal.

Departure to the village of Camacha for a visit to the wickerwork factory. Next, ascent to Poiso on the way to Pico do Areeiro (1818 m). Descent to Ribeiro Frio where you may visit a trout farm as well as admire an important part of the Laurissilva forest of Madeira, which was recently awarded World Heritage status.

We continue our trip to Santana, known for its thatched roof houses. Stop for lunch (not included).

Next, we go on to Ponta de São Lourenço . Return to Funchal with a last stop at town of Machico.

The Forestry Station of Rabaçal, near Paúl da Serra, is the starting point for the trail that gives access to the Risco Levada and the New Rabaçal Levada.

The walk along these two levadas is rated as moderate challenged and is about 11 km in length. First, we follow the Risco Levada to the waterfall of the same name, and then we drop to the 900 m elevation to follow the New Rabaçal Levada, which takes us to the pool at 25 Fontes, which gets its name from the many waterfalls there.

The path is lined with the indigenous and endemic flora of the island, especially the high-altitude vegetation, and there are indescribable views over this protected area. The return to the south coast of the island is through the Cavaleiro Tunnel (about 800 m long).