A walking guide to Madeira and Porto Santo, volcanic islands which bask in sunny solitude in the Atlantic Ocean, far removed from Europe and Africa. A popular holiday destination for decades, the islands now attract more adventurous travellers keen to walk and trek.
This guidebook contains 60 routes which explore the dramatic cliff coastline, wander along level levada paths, penetrate dense laurisilva forests and traverse stone-paved paths from peak to peak in the high mountains. Taking account of sweeping changes around modern-day Madeira, including the network of underground road tunnels, the guide includes full information about bus routes and accommodation, food and drink along the walks. As well as this, the guide includes other practical details on getting to Madeira, the perfect time to go, what to take, the history and culture of the island and the many fascinating sights to see along the way.
• a comprehensive introduction to Madeira and Porto Santo in 7 sections
• lavishly illustrated with photographs and contoured maps, showing options for linking routes for longer treks
• almost 800km (500 miles) of walking on a variety of terrains
Activities
walking, trekking, backpacking
Seasons
all year round; hot and humid but not excessively so; slight risk of snow in winter
Centres
Funchal, Monte, Porto Santo
Difficulty
routes for all abilities; steep terrain in many cases but many routes linear and downhill; some exposure on steep slopes; routes can be linked for backpacking
Must See
laurisilva forests, Parque Natural da Madeira, Fanal, Ponta de São Lourenço
