Madeira, Portugal: A Slow Traveler’s Guide to the Island of Nature & Wine
A beautiful island off the coast of Portugal — though technically closer to Morocco — Madeira feels like another world entirely. Just a 2-hour flight from Lisbon lands you in Funchal, where you step into a refreshingly lush, green landscape. With 67% of the island covered by natural parkland, Madeira is a paradise for hiking, viewpoints, and some of the most stunning sunsets you’ll ever see.
This trip was extra special because I traveled with my best friend of 15 years, Alisha. Exploring Madeira together felt like the perfect mix of adventure and celebration — from bouncing along 4x4 trails to swimming in natural volcanic pools.
Where I Stayed in Madeira
We booked this Airbnb in Funchal, which made the perfect home base. It was close to the city center, walkable to restaurants and shops, and cozy enough to come back to after long adventure-filled days. If you’re visiting without a rental car, staying in Funchal is a great option since most tours and excursions offer pickup here.
Exploring Madeira by 4x4 (Airbnb Experience – €65 / $70 per person)
One of the highlights of our trip was booking a 4x4 island tour on Airbnb, which cost around €65 ($70 USD) per person. Since Alisha and I were the first pickup of the day, our guide even invited us to grab a quick espresso before starting — such a fun and personal touch.
Even though it was his very first solo tour, he was incredible. We stopped at a waterfall overlook, tasted Poncha (Madeira’s signature drink made with aguardente, honey, and lemon), and rumbled through lush mountain trails. It was the perfect way to discover hidden corners of Madeira that you’d never find on your own.
Porto Moniz Natural Pools (Airbnb Tour – €60 / $65 per person)
Another unforgettable experience was visiting the famous Porto Moniz lava pools through this Airbnb tour. At €60 ($65 USD) per person, the tour took us along the rugged northwest coast of the island before we spent the afternoon swimming in natural volcanic pools filled with crystal-clear Atlantic water.
Floating here feels like being in a natural infinity pool carved by the ocean itself. Honestly, this was one of my favorite memories with Alisha — we couldn’t stop laughing, swimming, and just soaking in how unreal the scenery was.
Funchal Cable Car & Toboggan Ride (about €12–15 each)
From downtown Funchal, you can take the cable car up to Monte for sweeping views of the city and the Atlantic. The ride is about €12–15 per person and lasts 20 minutes, gliding over terracotta rooftops and gardens with the ocean stretching beyond.
At the top, the most unique way down is the traditional wicker toboggan ride — locals push you down steep streets in giant basket sleds! Tickets are around €25 per person, and lines can take up to an hour, so plan accordingly.
Hiking in Madeira
Madeira is a hiker’s dream, with trails for every level. Some top picks:
Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo – The island’s most iconic ridge hike with jaw-dropping mountain views.
São Vicente – A charming mountain town with volcanic caves and nearby trails.
Levada Walks – Gentle hikes that follow old irrigation channels through lush forests.
Quick tip: If you’re hiking without a guide, arrange transportation in advance. Taxis and buses stop running early, and Alisha and I once had to walk back into town before finally catching a rideshare.
Getting Around Madeira
While Bolt (similar to Uber) and local buses work within Funchal, the best way to explore the island is by rental car. The roads are steep and winding, but the freedom to stop at viewpoints, small villages, and hidden trails is worth it. Pro tip: book your car early, especially in high season.
Why Madeira is Perfect for Slow Travel
Madeira is one of those destinations where you don’t need to rush. Whether you’re sipping Poncha in a fishing village, hiking through the clouds, or floating in volcanic pools, every moment feels intentional.
For Alisha and me, Madeira was the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. If you’re dreaming of a trip that blends nature, wine, and island charm, Madeira deserves a spot at the very top of your Portugal itinerary.
