Self-guided Cycling Tour on Madeira island

Arrival in Canico

Caniço is a charming coastal town near the island’s capital, Funchal. Explore the surroundings with spectacular Atlantic views, steep cliffs, lovely promenades, and peaceful bays. A special highlight is a visit to the viewpoint with the Cristo Rei statue

Canico – Camacha – Porto da Cruz approx. 25 km + transfer

In the morning there is the transfer to Camacha, where your rental bikes will be fitted. This village is famous for its basket making. This practical souvenir is of course offered directly from the producers. You will cycle on a lovely high road right towards the East Coast. Enjoy the beautiful views on the way to the little fishing village, Porto da Cruz or Machico. Relax on the beach made out of volcano sand or visit one of the last working sugar cane mills.

Porto da Cruz – Santana – Sao Vicente approx. 40 km + transfer

A long, steep ascent will be bridged by bus this morning. In Santana you will start your cycle tour. Beforehand you should however visit the true Madeiran landmark. The traditional, thatched farmhouses have been lovingly restored here. The cycle route goes along a beautiful road through small, charming villages whilst always running along the length of the East Coast until you get to São Vicente. The village, named after Saint Vincent, is located right by the sea. It is however well-known for its 400,000-year-old grottoes.

Sao Vicente – Rocha Negra – Porto Moniz approx. 35 km + transfer

To begin with, you go in the mountains today! A transfer will take you to the high plateau Paúl da Serra. From here, you get on your bike and follow the high road past grazing cows and sheep. A long descent will then lead you to the West Coast of the island. Before you get to Porto Moniz, a spectacular view will leave you breathless. Where you are staying tonight is well-known for its natural swimming pools. The sea formed small and large pools, which are popular places to swim by both locals and tourists.

Porto Moniz – Calheta approx. 45 km

Today’s stage takes you along the West Coast and right through the UNESCO world heritage site in Madeira. You will cycle through fragrant forests and through small villages and you will always be accompanied by spectacular views of the below lying sea. After every curve you get a new great photo shot. In the lively village Calheta, it was not only the yacht harbour that was rebuilt. For the artificial beach, sand was especially imported from Morocco. The former sugar cane village has become a popular place for locals to meet.

Calheta – Funchal approx. 50 km

For the first third of today‘s stage, you will cycle directly along the waterside towards the capital. From Ribeira Brava the route takes you up hill away from the coast and then you will reach the very spectacular view point on the island. At Cabo Girao, a transparent platform was built 580m above the sea. The view down over the highest cliffs in Europe is dizzying. A long descent will then bring you back to the coast and then into the centre of Funchal. Colourful and lively are two strong impressions you will get from the capital of this island.

Funchal cable car journey/hike

The cable car will take you on your bike free day to the popular destination of Monte. Previously a noble health resort with grand quintas, this area offers many possibilities nowadays for an interesting day. You can visit the pilgrimage church Nossa Senhora do Monte do Monte and the tropical garden Jardim Tropical Monte Palace. You could also go for a lovely walk along the famous waterway, the “Levadas”. The rapid ride to the valley is nevertheless spectacular with one of the fantastic wicker sledges. You will see that Madeira also isn’t boring without a bike…

Departure or extension