Ultimate Madeira Cycling Holidays
Traverse through Madeira’s captivating towns like São Vicente, Funchal, Porto Moniz, and Calheta
Bask in the evergreen splendor of the ‘flower island’, enriched by a kaleidoscope of exotic flora
Dive into the natural volcanic swimming pools of Porto Moniz
Explore the iconic A-frame cottages in Santana and delve into the ancient caves in São Vicente
Indulge in the freedom of self-guided cycling, tailoring your expedition to your pace
Satiate your palate with authentic Madeiran cuisine, as you dine amidst quaint, picturesque settings
Revel in Madeira’s picturesque pathways on pedals
Navigate Madeira's lush landscapes by bike
Pedal through the heart of Madeira's beauty
Uncover the island's charm on two wheels
Explore a cyclist's paradise on Madeira's roads
Cycle through Madeira's enchanting scenic routes
Itinerary
Arrive in the peaceful coastal town of Santa Cruz, the starting point of your unforgettable Madeiran cycling journey. Get acquainted with the town’s quaint charm as the gentle waves of the Atlantic beckon. Take this day to relax, unwind, and prepare yourself for the adventure that lies ahead. As you stroll along the pristine beaches or revel in the serene ambiance of your hotel, the excitement of the upcoming journey begins to bubble within.
Hotel in Santa Cruz
Your cycling adventure begins as you saddle up and ride towards the heart of Madeira, heading for the delightful village of Camacha. The route takes you through the calm locale of Caniço, a place where every view is picture-perfect. The invigorating sea breeze accompanies you as you ride through lush landscapes, witnessing the simple yet vibrant lifestyle of the locals. Upon reaching Camacha, famous for its traditional wickerwork, the endearing simplicity and craftmanship of the village welcome you. Explore the local crafts and enjoy a warm meal as you look forward to the days of exploration ahead.
20km and 850m of elevation gain
Hotel in Camacha
Saddle up for a ride towards the emblematic town of Santana. The route showcases the authentic beauty of Madeira as you cycle through rolling hills and quaint villages. Santana, known for its traditional A-frame cottages, holds a treasure trove of history and culture. Spend your afternoon exploring these picturesque dwellings and absorbing the local culture that is richly embedded in every nook and cranny.
30km and 900m of elevation gain
Hotel in Santana
Today, the eastern coastal vistas guide you towards the serene town of São Vicente. The journey promises awe-inspiring views of the Atlantic and the verdant landscapes synonymous with Madeira. São Vicente, with its ancient caves and charming seafront, offers a blend of nature’s wonder and historical charm. Delve into the town’s mystique as you explore the caves and relax by the serene coastline.
32km and 1,200m of elevation gain
Hotel in São Vicente
Pedal westward to the unique town of Porto Moniz. Today’s route unfolds with stunning vistas of Madeira’s western coastline. Porto Moniz awaits with its natural volcanic swimming pools, a refreshing reward after a day of pedaling through the splendid scenery. As you dip into the crystalline waters, the quaint charm of Porto Moniz encapsulates the essence of Madeira’s untouched beauty.
48km and 1,950m of elevation gain
Hotel in Porto Moniz
Today’s journey to Estreito da Calheta is embellished with views of steep cliffs plunging into the emerald waters below. As you traverse through fragrant forests and serene shorelines, every pedal brings forth a new vista to admire. Upon reaching Estreito da Calheta, the evening is yours to relish the tranquil setting of this peaceful part of the island.
34km and 1,200m of elevation gain
Hotel in Estreito da Calheta
As you cycle towards the bustling city of Funchal, the landscapes blend into a fusion of urban and natural beauty. The final leg of your cycling tour is filled with reminiscing moments from the past days as the vibrant life of Funchal welcomes you. Explore the lively streets, taste the local delicacies, and toast to an incredible journey through Madeira’s charming towns and villages.
43km and 1,000m of elevation gain
Hotel in Funchal
As the sun rises on your last day in Madeira, the memories of the winding roads, azure waters, and the warm hospitality of the islanders will forever hold a special place in your heart. After a hearty breakfast, bid farewell to this enchanting island as you depart for your onward journey, carrying with you the spirit of adventure and exploration that Madeira imbued within you.
Not enough? Why not spend a few more days here! Extend your holidays with a pre- or post-holiday extension. Accommodation, sightseeing, and activities can be arranged. Add as many extra days to your holiday as you wish.
Not enough? Why not spend a few more days here! Extend your holidays with a pre- or post-holiday extension. Accommodation, sightseeing, and activities can be arranged. Add as many extra days to your holiday as you wish.
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Self guided
Included in price
Optional Extras
Description
Embark on a week-long cycling escapade around the enchanting island of Madeira, where lush meadows and the shimmering Atlantic invite experienced cyclists for an adventure of a lifetime. As you pedal almost the entire stretch of this Atlantic gem, explore both the pristine coastline and the heart of its countryside, unfolding a tapestry of vibrant hues from the rich flora that blankets the island all year round.
Madeira’s mild climate from February to December not only nourishes its nickname as the ‘flower island’ but also renders it an idyllic cycling retreat even in winter. As you cycle through, let the names of São Vicente, Funchal, Porto Moniz, and Calheta play a sweet tune to your wanderlust spirit, each town epitomizing a quaint, cozy aura intertwined with an exotic allure.
Each of the five daily stages encapsulates a unique experience, from immersing yourself in the vibrant bloom of Madeira’s floral world to catching breathtaking panoramic views atop steep cliffs. Venture into the quaint village of Porto Moniz to relish a refreshing dip in the natural lava stone swimming pools, a spectacular work of nature that promises to leave you spellbound.
From the heights of Cabo Girao to the depths of São Vicente’s ancient caves, every pedal stroke unveils a new narrative of Madeira’s rustic yet vibrant charm. Seize this self-guided cycling expedition that echoes the serene simplicity and bewitching beauty of Madeira, supported by a dedicated team ensuring a seamless, memorable journey from start to finish.
Embark on a personalized adventure with our self-guided expedition, meticulously crafted by our specialists to align with your preferences, granting you the freedom to explore at your own rhythm.
Relish the liberty to pause and delve deeper whenever intrigued, choosing your destinations as your journey unfolds. Rest assured, with our dedicated 24/7 support at your disposal, assistance is always within reach at every turn.
Map
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Things to know
Embark on a self-guided cycling odyssey, designed for a tailor-crafted and adaptable getaway on two wheels, unveiling wonders at your own pace while having the freedom to alter your itinerary or path as needed. Our dedicated team meticulously handles all facets, encompassing lodging arrangements, thorough planning, GPS navigational aid, and continuous support, to gift you a tranquil and engrossing journey. This venture champions autonomy, personal expression, and genuine cultural engagements.
Our tours are segmented into three tiers of difficulty: Leisurely, Moderate, and Challenging, categorized by the usual daily routine, although there may be variations in difficulty throughout the trip.
Leisurely tours are ideal for those in pursuit of a relaxed adventure amidst stunning landscapes, without the challenge of covering long distances or tackling rough terrains. These journeys typically cover 30-50 km each day, with an elevation gain of up to 500m. This allows plenty of pauses to relish the scenic vistas, enjoy local delicacies, and explore charming villages and towns along the way.
Moderate bike tours are tailored for those seeking a beautiful blend of scenic trails and a dash of challenge. Generally covering 50-80 km daily with an elevation gain of up to 1000m, these tours traverse enchanting landscapes and delightful villages, featuring a mix of flat and rolling terrains. They not only provide ample chances to stop and explore but also ensure a satisfying cycling workout.
Challenging bike tours are meant for experienced cyclists eager to push their limits. Spanning 80-120 km daily with an elevation gain of up to 2000m, these tours entail tackling steep ascents and demanding terrains. Though these tours require a high level of fitness and endurance, the exhilarating feeling of accomplishment at the end of each day, coupled with breathtaking views, makes the endeavor thoroughly rewarding.
We are devoted to discovering the ideal match for you. We collaborate with numerous lodging providers who meet our standards, although their availability may fluctuate, especially during peak demand times. Furthermore, we can customize your vacation to align with your preferences and budget, ensuring we identify the most fitting choice for your needs.
We advise booking your tour at the earliest opportunity, especially for popular tourist destinations with limited lodging availability. Prime choices often get snapped up for the summer before spring even arrives.
Addressing dietary preferences can vary based on their complexity. In Portugal, vegetarian options are generally available, but finding vegan meals might be more challenging in rural areas or smaller towns. Notably, lunch stops are often at traditional eateries which may not cater to special dietary needs beyond their standard menu. Keep this in consideration as you plan your adventure.
The ideal cycling season in Portugal stretches from mid-April to mid-October. In elevated regions like the Serra da Estrela, it’s preferable to cycle from mid-May to September.
Tours in Portugal can continue in light rain with the appropriate clothing. Summer frequently witnesses afternoon thunderstorms, making early tour starts recommended. If challenging weather conditions are expected, we’ll strive to adjust the tour beforehand.
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