Madeira is a Portuguese island nestled in the Atlantic, around 500 miles southwest of mainland Portugal. Untamed and subtropical, the volcanic island offers jagged mountains, cliffs that rise vertically from the ocean and UNESCO-listed laurel forests; not to mention the waterfalls, a delightful culinary scene and the natural swimming pools. It’s already clear to see that Madeira has it all. Our team of seasoned travel experts has explored nearly every accessible corner of the island, and we caught up with them to find out the reasons why anyone who loves exploring on foot must visit Madeira.

“As you make the exciting descent towards Madeira’s runway as it juts into the sea you get your first glimpse of this stunning island. Far from its slightly staid reputation as a holiday destination for retirees, Madeira is a gem for walkers all year round. I visited in October on KE's Levada Trails and Peaks of Madeira adventure and spent the days walking through beautiful landscapes in short sleeves and sunglasses. Regardless of the time of year, its location in the Gulf Stream promises pleasant walking temperatures whenever you want to escape everyday life. By changing our overnight locations, the trip really highlighted the best that the island has to offer from the coast to the highest peaks as well as the history of the levadas that shaped the island. If you visit Madeira, you’re certain to leave feeling completely satisfied.” - KE’s Head of Sales, Tom (picture above).

“If I had to choose one reason to visit Madeira, it would be how diverse the walking routes were across the island. Every part of the island was so different. One day we were trekking into the central mountains to reach Pico Ruivo for sunrise (in the picture above!), the next leisurely walking along the scenic water channels (levadas) through UNESCO-listed laurel forest. The coastal routes were a highlight for me, following old fishermen paths along the cliffsides, which offered vast sweeping views across the Atlantic. What I particularly love about Madeira was how varied the landscapes were, especially considering it is such a compact island. Every walk delivers a completely different perspective and no two walks felt the same.” – KE’s Brand and PR Marketing Manager, Tav (picture above).

“Madeira is, without a doubt, one of my favourite places for a winter escape; it’s a place which makes me feel instantly relaxed. It has it all – the sunshine, the vibrant tropical flowers, incredible walks and scenery and a calm friendly atmosphere. There are rugged cliffs and stunning viewpoints at places like the Nun’s Valley and Boca da Corrido and a whole network of lush levada trails. We also enjoyed the thrill of swimming while the waves crashed into the natural sea swimming pools at Porto Moniz and exploring the otherworldly ancient laurel trees at Laurissilva Forest. Last time we visited we took a boat trip from Funchal and saw pods of dolphins and minke whales; a mesmerising sight. To accompany all that there’s the delicious seafood. I always go for the local delicacy of black scabbardfish (not pretty to look at but very tasty!) accompanied by a glass of wine or poncho, my teenage son discovered a love of swordfish. When can I go again?!” – KE’s Head of Marketing, Rachel (picture above).

“I visited Madeira on KE’s Self-Guided Walking in Madeira, it’s a great trip to start with if you have never been on a walking holiday before, or if you have never been to Madeira as it’s a nice introduction to the island. The island itself is incredibly accessible for those new to walking, without compromising on its breathtaking scenery. The contrast between the north and south of the island is incredible for such a small place, and while exposed sections are well protected, a head for heights is definitely useful. I love how easy it is to move between quiet hiking trails, charming towns and the sea, especially when walking along the levadas, surrounded by greenery, eucalyptus trees and the sound of flowing water. All the luggage transfers were taken care of so all you have to worry about is walking from A to B using the KE app. Funchal, the capital of Madeira, feels very different to the busy capitals back home, so I’d definitely recommend tagging on a few extra days at the start or end of your trip to really make the most of it.” – KE’s Operations Executive, Kerrie (picture above).

“I’d often heard that to walk in Madeira is to walk the island’s history, and on KE’s bestselling Levada Trails and Peaks of Madeira trip, I couldn’t agree more. As someone fascinated by history and likes to learn about each destination I visit, this island not only has cliffs rising straight from the Atlantic and spectacular viewpoints that left me speechless, but also an incredible and insightful history too. Our guide André shared endless knowledge of the history of the island and a true passion for his home, and I came away feeling both inspired and fulfilled. We walked sections of the Caminho Real, or Royal Footpath, commissioned by the King of Portugal in the 19th century as the first major road connecting the island’s coast - on such a mountainous island, it’s astonishing to imagine it was built so long ago!” – KE’s Marketing Executive, Ella (picture above).

With decades of combined experience exploring Madeira, our team know this island inside out. From dramatic coastal cliffs and levada trails to historic paths like the Caminho Real, we’ve walked almost every corner and discovered what makes the island so unique. Whether you’re a first-time walker, chasing some much needed winter sunshine or looking to walk Madeira’s highest peaks, Madeira is a must-visit destination. As experts who’ve explored it year after year, we can confidently say: for anyone who loves walking, Madeira is a destination you simply can’t miss.