Located approximately 435 miles off the west coast of Africa, the four islands that make up the Portuguese region of Madeira have for centuries welcomed European visitors seeking to escape the cold winters. But more recently, the main island of Madeira, the main island of the archipelago, has begun to attract a new type of tourist, those looking to explore its fascinating volcanic landscapes on foot. Madeira is spectacular levadas (irrigation tunnels that line hiking trails), combined with an increasingly exciting culinary scene and plenty of coastal activities, make this one of the best hiking destinations of 2025. Here’s why it should be on every active adventurer’s bucket list.

1. Hikes steeped in history

To explore Madeira levadas is to explore the history of the island. A series of more than 200 water channels that stretch nearly 2,000 miles (an impressive feat on an island that measures only 34 miles long and 14 miles wide), the levadas dates back to the 15th century, when Portuguese settlers reached this then uninhabited island. These irrigation canals were originally created to transport water from the humid north to the dry south. Yet over the decades their purposes have varied widely, from providing drinking and washing water to remote areas of the island to generating hydroelectricity and irrigating banana plantations.

Nowadays, these same levadas help guide hikers through the island’s diverse topography, winding through forests, mountains and coastal cliffs. Don’t miss a morning jaunt on the Levada do Caldeirão Verde, a moderate-intensity point-to-point hike that follows a deep emerald-forested ravine. For history buffs, this itinerary can be combined with a visit to the famous collection of traditional A-framed houses called “Casas de Santana” in the afternoon.

2. Varied itineraries in the middle of volcanic landscapes

Hiking in Madeira is an unparalleled experience, thanks in large part to the island’s epic landscapes. One minute you’re rushing under 20-meter waterfalls or squeezing through dark, steep tunnels; the next, you’re climbing steps that reach beyond the clouds. Whichever path you choose, mesmerizing views of the island’s central mountain range or panoramas of the North Atlantic Ocean appear around almost every corner. And the beauty of hiking in Madeira is that you’re never more than a few kilometers from a body of water to dive into – whether it’s the open-air lido in the idyllic surf town of Porto Da Cruz or the warm Atlantic Ocean off the sandy shores. from Calheta, in the south of the island.

3. A trail for all tastes

More daring visitors will enjoy the six-mile trek to the summit of Pico Ruivo, Portugal’s third highest point, which rises to 6,106 feet and offers unparalleled views of the surrounding valleys. For those who want to keep the altitude – and activity level – slightly lower, Levada dos Tornos is a more modest but equally beautiful route that winds alongside the trickling aqueduct and through an old-growth laurel rainforest 20 million years old. Expect lots of fluffy bearded trees and Lord of the Rings-style decoration.

Or head north to Levada do Caldeirão Verde, where you can hike in the morning and swim in Porto Moniz’s famous volcanic rock pools in the afternoon. This levada is also known as ‘a path for everyone» (a trail for everyone) and its wide, accessible path and accompanying sensory experiences have been designed to allow people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the natural pleasures of the island. Whatever the level of difficulty of the chosen hike, it is always best to call on a professional. levada guide who will help you safely navigate difficult terrain and share local knowledge along the way.

4. Distinctive culinary delights

Before any adventure, be sure to stock up on supplies at Lavradores Market (the farmers’ market) in Funchal, the capital of Madeira. Here you can choose from Madeira Island’s famous tropical fruits, from passion fruit to creamed apples and pears. Many hikes in Madeira end in villages or towns, offering the opportunity to taste national or regional specialties. In more mountainous areas, stop at a taberna (local restaurant) and expect to be served generously. Espetada — a succulent beef skewer. Meanwhile, on the coast, there is nothing better than enjoying a fresh and tender food. polvo (octopus) or grilled line-caught tuna of the day, washed down with poncha cocktail (aguardente, lemon or orange and sugar or honey) after an invigorating walk. The more adventurous can also sample distinctive local specialties like toothy black saber and bananas.

5. World-class wines

No visit to Madeira could be complete without also tasting the archipelago’s famous wines, a welcome treat after a day on the trails. Madeira wines were historically enriched with sugar cane distillate to preserve them during sea voyages, giving them the characteristic sweet flavor that characterizes them today. End a day of hiking with a tasting at Blandy’s Wine Lodge in Funchal. The Blandy family has been producing wine here for over two centuries, making it the perfect place to learn about the region’s wine prestige and enjoy a glass or two yourself.

6. A privileged climate for hiking

It’s not for nothing that Madeira is nicknamed “the island of eternal spring”, since temperatures fluctuate between 18 and 27°C all year round. However, it can be considerably cooler in the mountains – ideal conditions for walking. However, it is always advisable to bring an umbrella and a raincoat, as the weather at high altitudes can sometimes be unpredictable. Part of the joy of exploring this small island is that you could be hiking in torrential rain one moment and floating in the warm ocean under a clear blue sky half an hour later.