Travel story cycling Madeira

Arriving in Portugal, my friend and I check into our hotel in Caniço and enjoy the stunning view of the Atlantic. We explore the picturesque town along the coast on foot. The colorful houses and blooming gardens invite us to stroll, and we discover a charming restaurant where we sample our first local dishes.

Stage 1: A gentle start

Since the Madeira Loop Tour involves some elevation gain, there is a transfer to the starting point for the first three cycling stages of the tour. This allows us to skip some of the elevation and start our rides with a little more ease.

After arriving in Camacha with the first transfer, we are greeted with the rental bike handover and a detailed tour briefing. After a short test ride, we’re perfectly prepared for the upcoming adventures and feel ready to tackle the first stage to Porto da Cruz. The route takes us along nearly traffic-free roads through pristine landscapes, passing eucalyptus forests. Our first well-deserved break is at the Miradouro da Portela viewpoint, where we enjoy a breathtaking view of Eagle Rock and the surrounding nature.

The final kilometers take us downhill, with a stunning view of Porto da Cruz and the shimmering sea beyond. After the first cycling stage, we feel we’ve truly earned a soothing dip in the one-of-a-kind saltwater pool, where we can relax and take in the breathtaking views of the mountains and the Atlantic.

Cyclist with bicycle gazing into the distance

Stage 2: With perfect weather, the ride feels almost effortless

The next morning, we take the transfer once more for our island bike tour, heading to the starting point in Santana. Before we begin, we visit the charming Casa de Colmo, where we marvel at the region's traditional thatched roofs. Then, bathed in bright sunshine, we set off on our ride to São Vicente. The route is a beautiful blend of lush flora and fauna, offering breathtaking views of the coastline.

Arriving in São Vicente, we decide to extend our cycling stage a little longer after settling into our thoughtfully chosen accommodation. We cycle to Seixal to explore the town and its natural pools in more detail. The pools are separated from the sea by rocks, making the water calm and perfect for swimming.

On the way to Seixal, we are already accompanied by several small waterfalls and lush, green rocks.

Traditional houses with thatched roofs from Santana

Stage 3: A combination of Bike & Hike

Today, we embark on our final transfer on the Flower Island of Madeira. It not only helps us conquer the initial climb to the starting point but also covers the first 13 kilometers of the route, which is closed due to wildfires. Our driver is well-informed, ensuring we begin our ride at the next nearest point. After a few kilometers, we choose to hike to the enchanting Fanal Moorlands, which lie right along the route and are truly worth exploring. We then hop back on our bikes, with the Atlantic as our constant companion, riding downhill to Porto Moniz. The journey there is nothing short of magical! The dramatic lava formations and the refreshing sea create an unforgettable experience, captivating our senses at every turn.

A leisurely stroll along the promenade in Porto Moniz is the perfect way to end the day, and it’s made even better with a refreshing dip in one of the two natural pools.

Two bikes on the cycle path with the Atlantic Ocean in the background

Stage 4: No pain, no gain

The fourth stage takes us directly from Porto Moniz to Calheta on this active cycling tour. Right from the start, we’re met with a steep climb that works up a sweat. But the effort is rewarded, with stunning views of the town below. The sparkling water and lush hills are absolutely breathtaking.

After cycling through misty forests, we’re welcomed by beautiful weather once again in Calheta. We unwind on the beach, letting the calm surroundings soothe our spirits. Once we've recharged, we stroll toward the harbor, savoring a scoop of delicious ice cream as we explore the charming area.

Stage 5: From the beach to the town

Today, we embark on the final cycling stage of our captivating loop tour from Calheta to Funchal. We begin by pedaling through vast banana plantations, passing waterfalls, all while immersed in a lush, tropical climate. As we continue through small, charming mountain villages, we make our way toward the final stretch, which unveils a stunning view of Funchal, nestled along the mountainside. We stop for a break at Cabo Girão on the glass platform, 580 meters above the sea, where we’re treated to a breathtaking view of Europe’s highest sea cliff. Once back on our bikes, we head to the route’s final stop, Câmara de Lobos. The picturesque harbor and quaint old town invite us to explore, and in one of the local seafood restaurants or cozy cafés, we relax and enjoy a well-deserved break during our self-guided cycling adventure.

Feeling refreshed, we continue to the final destination of our journey, the lively city of Funchal. Here, a leisurely evening stroll through the city and its distinct neighborhoods is the perfect way to end our adventure.

To round off the journey, only a few relaxing kilometers of cycling remain to the cable car valley station in Funchal. The cable car ride offers stunning views of the city and the sea, providing a breathtaking end to the tour.

Back in the valley of the city, we feel like true adventurers as we explore the charming corners of Funchal on foot. A definite highlight is the bustling market in the heart of the city, where we delight in the vivid colors and sweet aromas of fresh fruits and vegetables, meandering slowly past the lively stalls. In the evening, we return our bikes to the hotel and wrap up the journey with a glass of Madeira wine, savoring the breathtaking view of the capital lit up under the night sky.

Two bicycles and cyclist looking into the distance

View of Maderia from the Cabo Girão viewpoint

View of the small neighbourhood of Tabua

Paula's favorite place

For me, it’s rather clear: there isn’t just one favorite place, but the entire cycling journey is filled with many highlights and beautiful spots.

One of these special places is along the promenade, on the stage leading to Porto da Cruz. One evening, as we took a stroll along the promenade, we discovered our favorite place of the journey. It was a viewpoint nestled in untouched nature, offering a stunning view of the mountains, the beach, and the Atlantic. The sun softly bathed the rocks in the background, making them glow, while the water sparkled like a thousand diamonds. It was simply breathtaking.

Holidaymaker in Porto da Cruz with a view of the sunlit coastline

Travel story Madeira Loop Tour