Madeira has something for everyone, but there are a few experiences that truly capture the island’s essence. These are the things we recommend again and again — a mix of nature, food, and quiet moments that make you fall in love with the island.

1. Watch the sunset at Pico do Areeiro

At 1,818 metres, Pico do Areeiro is one of Madeira’s most iconic peaks. Sunrise is famous here, but we love it just as much at sunset, when the light softens and the crowds disappear. Standing above the clouds as the sky turns gold and pink feels surreal — like you’re watching the island breathe.

2. Walk a levada trail

Madeira’s levadas — historic irrigation channels that snake through the mountains — are the best way to see the island’s hidden beauty. Our favourite is Levada do Caldeirão Verde, a lush walk through waterfalls and tunnels, or Levada do Moinho, which winds peacefully through forest and small villages. Each step shows a quieter, greener side of Madeira most people never see from the road.

3. Hike the São Lourenço peninsula

The eastern tip of Madeira is a raw, volcanic landscape — a world of cliffs, wind, and ocean views. The trail reveals the island’s dramatic geological layers, showing how Madeira was formed. For the ultimate experience, hike to the end and return by boat, seeing the peninsula from the sea and spotting dolphins along the way.

4. Spend time in the Fanal forest

The Laurisilva forest of Fanal feels like nowhere else on earth. Ancient laurel trees twist through rolling fields, often surrounded by mist that makes everything feel still and otherworldly. This forest is a UNESCO World Heritage site, but what makes it special isn’t just its beauty — it’s the atmosphere. Fanal has a presence; it’s a place that stays with you.

5. Try Madeira wine and poncha

Madeira wine is a symbol of the island — rich, complex, and full of history. You can try guided tastings at Blandy’s Wine Lodge in Funchal or Henriques & Henriques in Câmara de Lobos, where you’ll learn how the wine is aged and how its unique flavour develops. For poncha, stop at Taberna da Poncha in Serra de Água or Rei da Poncha in Câmara de Lobos — both known for doing it the traditional way.

6. Taste traditional Madeiran cuisine

The island’s food is simple, hearty, and deeply connected to local life. Don’t miss espetada (beef grilled on laurel sticks), espada com banana (black scabbardfish with banana), or a prego steak sandwich served in soft bolo do caco bread. For an authentic experience, head to Casa de Pasto Justiniano in Camacha or Viola in Câmara de Lobos — both beloved for their local atmosphere and perfectly cooked traditional dishes.

7. Take a boat trip for dolphins and whales

The waters around Madeira are home to over 20 species of dolphins and whales. Seeing them in their natural habitat is unforgettable. We recommend VIPDOLPHINS, which offers small-group trips with comfort, space, and a focus on responsible wildlife viewing. Use the promocode Lauri for 10% off when booking through their website.

8. Go for a sunset walk on Praia Formosa

Funchal’s main beach is the perfect place to unwind at the end of the day. Walk the long promenade, listen to the waves, and watch the sky shift from orange to violet as the sun sets over the ocean. It’s a simple moment, but one that captures Madeira’s calm rhythm perfectly.

9. Try a tasting menu at Gazebo

For a refined dining experience, book a table at Gazebo. Their tasting menus highlight seasonal Madeiran ingredients in creative, modern ways, paired with excellent wines. The space itself is beautiful — open, green, and peaceful — making it the perfect spot for a slow, elegant evening.

10. Join a tea ceremony in the forest with Wild.Heirloom

For something truly unique, experience a tea ceremony in nature with Wild.Heirloom. Held in hidden forest clearings, these gatherings blend wild foraged herbs, mindfulness, and ceremony. Each one feels different depending on the season and the plants used, but all share the same quiet connection — a reminder that Madeira’s real magic lies in its stillness.

🌿 These are the experiences we always recommend — the things that define Madeira for us. Some are small, some take a full day, but each captures a different side of the island: its landscapes, its flavours, and its sense of calm that makes you want to stay just a little longer.