Friday, April 19, 2024 - Sunday, April 28, 2024
Madeira,
International,
Portugal
Madeira, known as the "Pearl of the Atlantic" is a mountainous Portuguese island off the northwest coast of Africa, created by volcanic eruptions and erosion. The terrain is volcanic, green and rugged, with high cliffs soaring above the Atlantic coastline, fascinating rock formations, and deep gorges. This terrain offers diverse and unique hiking experiences. Join us on this 10 day adventure where we will climb Madeira's highest peaks, explore lush forest valleys, stroll along ocean sided rugged cliffs and meander through an extensive network of levadas. Levadas are small irrigation channels with gentle slopes. Our hiking adventure will be enhanced by staying in four distinct locations on the island, Santa Cruz, Santana, Porto Moniz and Funchal, from where we will be transported to our hikes each day. These geographic locations will provide us the opportunity to experience the culture of Madeira by staying in small neighborhood hotels, sampling traditional Portuguese and Madeiran cuisine, and visiting local attractions. We will be joined on one hike by a local guide who will provide us with information about the local flora, fauna and culture. A free day in the capital of Funchal will give us an opportunity to further explore the island's culture and charm. Excluding breaks, on the longer hiking days we will usually hike from four to six hours per day, between 4 and 11 miles, with elevation gains in the range of 300 to 2000 feet. The terrain is rugged and steep in places, and requires agility, and at times, hand holds. Several of the trails have steep drop-offs and tunnels. We will hike at a moderate pace, which will permit time for photos and rest breaks. Participants should be in excellent shape and be able to hike for most of the day for seven days in a row. For all hikes we only need to carry daypacks, as our luggage will be transported to our lodging in small hotels and village guesthouses. All breakfasts and most dinners starting with dinner after arrival in Santa Cruz until the trip ends after breakfast in Funchal are included.
