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Western Madeira

Exploring lesser known coasts, trace the famous levada footpaths and pass through forests of laurisilva with panoramic views across the island.

  • Madeira

  • 7 nights
  • Half Board.
  • Coast & Islands

    Landscape

    Mountains

  • Jan

    Feb

    Mar

    Apr

    Sep

    Oct

    Nov

    Dec

Moderate

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Walking grade

Grade 5

This is a grade 5 walking holiday with full days of walking. Madeira is a mountainous island with peaks rising to around 1870m.  The scenery is very dramatic and the excellent network of footpaths allows access without difficulty. There are several types of paths on Madeira: almost completely flat levada paths which run beside the water channels criss-crossing the island; mountain paths through the central area around Curral das Freiras or the major peaks which can be steep at times; engineered paths, sometimes along cobbled or vehicle tracks, and coastal paths which undulate high above the sea. Walk along the coast, in the mountains, passing villages, waterfalls and enjoying truly magnificent views. Some of the walks along the high peaks are dependant on weather conditions so may not be possible. Some days are half days whereas other days will be full days. Some walks may have optional opt out points, please speak to your leader for more information. The maximum altitude we reach on this holiday is 1,870m.

To enjoy the walks you need a good head for heights as some paths are very narrow with large drops on one side, and to be prepared for occasional long descents of around 1000m. Although the holiday is a Grade 5 there are some walks that are more like a Grade 6 due to long descents of up to 1,250m.

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Classic Collection

Thoughtfully designed, meticulously planned, carefully graded, and expertly guided walking tours and hiking holidays along well-loved and off-the-beaten-track footpaths.

Overview

Holiday Highlights

  • Enjoy delicious Madeiran delicacies made from fresh local produce.
  • Stay in centrally located hotels, with everything you need on your doorstep.
  • Stay in two pretty coastal villages, Porto Moniz and Ponta do Sol.
  • Trace the famous Levada footpaths running beside water channels, cutting through the mountains.

If you are looking at this one week holiday why not make your stay two weeks by joining us on Complete Madeira?

If you have a passion for walking, a strong affinity for heights, and haven't yet had the pleasure of experiencing the beauty of Madeira, then you're in for an unforgettable holiday.

The name "Madeira" in Portuguese means wood, aptly reflecting the island's lush forests that sprawl across the island. Madeira is the perfect walker’s island, with an extensive network of well maintained footpaths through very varied terrain. Renowned for its iconic levada footpaths, these trails run alongside water channels that cut through the island's rugged mountains, connecting the relatively wet northern half to the comparatively dry southern regions and supplying water to the island's most populated areas of Madeira. 

As you venture along the coast, you'll be greeted by subtropical vegetation featuring banana palms and apple trees. On the terraced slopes, agapanthus and an array of vibrant flowers, including hydrangeas and bird of paradise plants add a burst of colour to the surroundings. Ascending higher, you'll encounter forests of laurisilva before the peaks pushing towards 2000m, offering panoramic views that stretch across the island and beyond to the Atlantic. Madeira has a comfortable all year-round climate, making it the ideal walkers paradise.

Your holiday starts in the little visited village of Porto Moniz, in the far northwest, with its sheltered harbour where a mass of pointed reefs provide unique natural bathing pools. This hidden little gem receives so few visitors due to its remoteness, so your exploration here is unique and special. Your exploration here is truly exceptional, offering a distinct and enchanting experience. The walks in this region are unlike any other on the island.

Your second base is set on the serene South Coast, in the peaceful town of Ponta do Sol, nestled between two mountains and known for being one of the sunniest spots on Madeira. 

If you possess an adventurous spirit and a penchant for heights, Madeira will undoubtedly captivate your heart.


  • Return flights from London to Funchal Airport.
  • Airport transfers.
  • En suite four-star accommodation on a half board basis.
  • All local transport required for the itinerary by private coach/public bus/taxi.
  • Services of a Classic Tour Leader.
  • Entrance fees (unless otherwise specified)
  • Personal expenses (such as your bar bill)
  • Discretionary tips
  • Optional excursions
  • Travel Insurance

Holiday Information

Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.

NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen

View Holiday Information Sheet

Tour Codes

26750

Itinerary & Travel

Itinerary Details

Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.

Your Itinerary

Day 1

Welcome to Porto Moniz

Meals

Dinner

Accommodation

Fly to Funchal airport and transfer by private coach across Madeira to Porto Moniz in the North West corner of the island. The journey is extremely scenic and has spectacular mountain and coastal views.

Transfer Time = 1h 30m

Day 2 to 3

Discover Porto Moniz

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

During your time in Madeira, you'll explore the island through a variety of walks which may include one or more of the following. Some walks may be substituted due to weather conditions, or changes beyond our control. 

  • Time

    4-5 hours

  • Distance

    5.3 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    260/505m

Faja da Lenha to Fanal: Embark on a distinct countryside hike, offering a refreshing departure from the iconic levada walks of Madeira. Meander along rustic country paths, winding your way through vibrant green landscapes. As you explore, you'll be treated to awe-inspiring vistas that reveal the coastal beauty and the peaceful village of Ribeira da Janela nestled below.

  • Time

    5.5 hours

  • Distance

    6.1 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    205/485m

Levada do Moinho: Set out on an invigorating uphill walk through a picturesque woodland, commencing from Achadas da Cruz, and eventually reaching a tranquil levada. The path is narrow at times, but well protected. The levada itself, once harnessed to power mills, often flows briskly. During your journey, prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking panoramic views of the dramatic coastline and the steep, terraced hillsides, which have been meticulously cultivated over the years.

For an extra touch of exploration, consider taking a detour to the source of the levada before following its course to Santa. There, you can enjoy a well-deserved break at a local café. Afterward, continue your adventure by descending traditional cobbled steps that will guide you to the coastal gem of Porto Moniz.



Day 4

Welcome to Ponta Do Sol

Accommodation

Transfer to the second centre of Ponta do Sol.

  • Time

    4 hours

  • Distance

    4.7 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    35/690m

A Levada do Lombo do Mouro:  The transfer bus will carry you up to the breathtaking Plateau of Paul Da Serra, where you'll be greeted by your first glimpse of the awe-inspiring Big Peaks. Upon beginning our descent towards Encumeada, the bus will make a stop to drop you off before continuing to Ponto Do Sol with your luggage. The descent commences on a charming, narrow levada path, affording open vistas of the majestic Big Peaks to the east. You'll journey through an enchanting Eucalyptus forest, eventually emerging to panoramic views overlooking the Ribeira Valley. Continuing your descent, you'll pass through quaint villages until you reach the picturesque coastal town of Ribeira Brava.

Here, you'll have some time to enjoy a refreshing drink before prearranged taxis await to transport you to your hotel in Ponto Do Sol, situated along the sunny south coast.

Day 5 to 7

Explore Ponta do Sol

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

During your time in Ponta do Sol, explore the island through a variety of walks which may include one or more of the following.

  • Time

    6.5 hours

  • Distance

    10.6 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    250/550m

A Levada Nova to Ponta do Sol: Stroll along the quiet levada with uninterrupted views of Madeira's beautiful landscape, along quiet meandering roads and paved tracks. Pass a thundering waterfall before traversing through through short tunnels (be sure to bring a torch). The trail leads you alongside sugar cane fields and the villages of Jangao and Lombada, before descending to the inviting shores of Ponta do Sol.

  • Time

    6-7 hours

  • Distance

    10.4 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    325/595m

A day of Levadas: Navigate your way along scenic trails, weaving through the network of Levadas, whilst passing cascading waterfalls and the grace of picturesque rivers. Your journey begins at the Levada do Alecrim, where you'll trace the path back to the source of the Alecrim river and its captivating waterfalls.

Continuing on the Levada do Risco, you'll find yourself venturing deeper into the heart of the countryside, and don't forget to keep an eye out for the mossy Risco Waterfalls, an awe-inspiring spectacle when they're at their most vigorous flow. The route will then take you through luxuriant green forests to the Levada do Paul Serra, making for a day filled with breathtaking panoramic vistas, mesmerizing waterfalls, and the delightful embrace of the Levadas.

  • Time

    6 hours

  • Distance

    10 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    510m

Fontes & Chao dos Terreiros: Beginning in the village of Fontes. you'll complete a circuit of the rolling hills to the north of the village before descending to Meia Legua in the lush Ribeira Valley. A gradual ascent brings you to Terreiros, revealing the landscape views begin to open out towards Boca Da Cerro, Pico Grande and the Big Peaks. After a well earned rest with panoramic views at the summit, return to Fontes. For those who prefer to skip the descent, transport is available from this point back to the hotel. However, it is worth noting that the views along the descent route are rewarding.  

  • Time

    6 hours

  • Distance

    10 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    465/680m

Cabo Girao & Levada do Norte to Faja: The day commences with a visit to the Cabo Girão sea cliffs, towering at 580m, these cliffs rank as the word's second highest. With the introduction of its remarkable glass skywalk, it it is now the most popular tourist attraction in Madeira. Leaving the cliffs behind, hike along Levada Norte, winding through valleys and passing through sunny cultivated terraces. Take a stepped path down to Faja in the Ribeira Valley. The path down has 1600 steps and is a spectacular descent.

Day 8

Farewell

Meals

Breakfast

Your exploration of Madeira is over and its time for a short transfer to Funchal airport for your return flight to the UK.

Departure dates for your selected tour

15th Apr 2024 - 22nd Apr 2024 (7 Nights)

30th Sep 2024 - 7th Oct 2024 (7 Nights)

11th Nov 2024 - 18th Nov 2024 (7 Nights)

20th Dec 2024 - 27th Dec 2024 (7 Nights)

20th Jan 2025 - 27th Jan 2025 (7 Nights)

10th Feb 2025 - 17th Feb 2025 (7 Nights)

24th Mar 2025 - 31st Mar 2025 (7 Nights)

22nd Sep 2025 - 29th Sep 2025 (7 Nights)

13th Oct 2025 - 20th Oct 2025 (7 Nights)

17th Nov 2025 - 24th Nov 2025 (7 Nights)

20th Dec 2025 - 27th Dec 2025 (7 Nights)

Travel Details

  • Return flights from London to Funchal Airport
  • Arrival transfer by road c.1hr.30mins
  • We can offer regional flight options and often there will be up to two transfer vehicles (which may include coaches, minibuses or taxis) from the airport to the hotel and vice versa which will minimise any waiting time at the overseas airport
  • Upgrades are available on most flights. For scheduled flights this may be Premium Economy, Business or First Class. Most low-cost carriers also have extra legroom seats.
  • If direct regional flights are not available, we can often offer add-on flights to a London airport at a competitive rate. Please ask us for details and a competitive quote.


Accommodation

Accommodation information

Below is the accommodation featured on this holiday across all departure dates. Please refer to the Itinerary for more detail about each night's accommodation for each departure date.

Aqua Natura Bay

Porto Moniz is a relaxing coastal village and offers magnificent levadas and phenomenal sea views. There are a variety of facilities including shops, mini supermarkets, bakery, bars, restaurants and cafes. There is also a small bank with an ATM, a tourist office, and bus station. During the winter season, the town can be a little quieter as there may be less tourists and you may find some shops have shorter opening hours.

You'll stay at the modern 4 star Aqua Natura Bay Hotel, delightfully situated in the cosy parish of Porto Moniz. Close to the natural pools on the other side of the bay, it is surrounded by the Atlantic and the cliffs of Madeira’s coast. This new hotel opened in June 2021, and includes a wellness and health centre with an indoor pool, solarium, Turkish bath and massage treatments. Perhaps gaze at the magnificent view of the Atlantic Ocean from the outdoor heated pool or relax in the sauna and jacuzzi. Guests also have use of the natural swimming pools located in Porto Moniz.

You'll stay in twin bedded rooms. Single rooms are usually double for sole use. Rooms are bright with contemporary furniture and modern décor. Facilities include:

  • Ensuite bathrooms
  • TV
  • Telephone
  • Safe
  • Minibar
  • Tea and coffee making facilities
  • Free WIFI
  • Air conditioning
  • Sea view

Enotel Sunset Bay

Ponta do Sol is located between two mountains and is known as the sunpoint of Madeira as it is one of the sunniest points on the island! It is a peaceful picturesque village with pebble beaches and beautiful hilly landscape. The centre is very small with 1 miniature supermarket and a couple of beach tavernas, however it is ideal for relaxing and seeing the real Madeira! During the winter season, the town can be a little quieter as there may be less tourists and you may find some shops have shorter opening hours.

You'll stay in the recently refurbished four star Enotel Sunset Bay with direct access to the sea! The hotel reception area and its restaurant has been enlarged and refurbished with modern furnishings. Other refurbished facilities include a heated indoor swimming pool, Turkish bath, sauna, gym, a rooftop solarium and cocktail bar!

You'll stay in recently refurbished double and twin bedded rooms. Single rooms are usually double for sole use. The facilities include:

  • Ensuite bathrooms with a walk in shower
  • Television
  • Telephone
  • Free WIFI
  • Fridge
  • Hairdryer 
  • Air conditioning
  • Minibar

Like most hotels in Madeira, rooms do not include tea and coffee making facilities.

Trip Information

All the details you need

Holiday Grade

This is a grade 5 walking holiday with full days of walking. Madeira is a mountainous island with peaks rising to around 1870m.  The scenery is very dramatic and the excellent network of footpaths allows access without difficulty. There are several types of paths on Madeira: almost completely flat levada paths which run beside the water channels criss-crossing the island; mountain paths through the central area around Curral das Freiras or the major peaks which can be steep at times; engineered paths, sometimes along cobbled or vehicle tracks, and coastal paths which undulate high above the sea. Walk along the coast, in the mountains, passing villages, waterfalls and enjoying truly magnificent views. Some of the walks along the high peaks are dependant on weather conditions so may not be possible. Some days are half days whereas other days will be full days. Some walks may have optional opt out points, please speak to your leader for more information. The maximum altitude we reach on this holiday is 1,870m.

To enjoy the walks you need a good head for heights as some paths are very narrow with large drops on one side, and to be prepared for occasional long descents of around 1000m. Although the holiday is a Grade 5 there are some walks that are more like a Grade 6 due to long descents of up to 1,250m.

Walks & Excursions

Local Transport Costs

In the holiday cost, we've included all local transport expenses related to the advertised activity programme for your convenience. If there are additional visits or excursions to enrich your experience, you can choose to participate and cover the costs locally. Depending on the itinerary, local transport may involve a mix of private hire coaches, taxis, local buses, and ferries.

Optional Excursions

At your destination, you may have the option to book various local excursions and activities through a local operator. It's important to note that we are not involved in these activities or excursions, and we do not operate, supervise, or control them in any way. Your contract will be directly with the local activity supplier, and we bear no responsibility for their actions or omissions.

Spending Money

Holiday Budgeting

As you plan your holiday budget, it's essential to account for expenses such as drinks, meals not covered in the holiday price, entrance fees not included, optional local excursions, and any souvenirs or additional services like laundry. For a rough estimate, budgeting around £10-£20 per person per day for lunches and drinks is a helpful guideline.

Currency in Portugal

The currency in Portugal is the euro. We recommend you take some euro cash with you until you reach an ATM as credit cards may not be accepted in some towns and rural areas so please ensure you always have cash with you.

Tipping

In your holiday price, we've included tipping for our local suppliers, covering hotel and restaurant staff, local guides, and drivers. Should you wish to make an extra contribution for a specific service, this should be given directly to the recipient at your discretion.

Tour Leaders & Local Guides

Tour Leaders

Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organised they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations.  Your tour leader takes care of all the local administration, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.

Leader's Evening Briefing

Each evening, your tour leader will meet with you to review the programme for the next day. This is your chance to discuss details and ensure that the planned activities align with your walking ability. If you have any concerns about clothing or equipment, feel free to bring them up during this discussion. If, for any reason, you prefer not to participate in the organised group programme, please inform your leader. Your preferences are important, and your leader is there to make sure your experience aligns with your expectations.

Your Travel Details

Return flights are from London to Funchal Airport. Travel in Madeira will be by private coach and the approximate travel times are as follows:

  • Funchal Airport to Porto Moniz: 1 hour. 
  • Porto Moniz to Ponta do Sol: 1 hour. 
  • Ponta do Sol to Funchal Airport: 40 minutes

During the week you'll travel by foot, coach, taxis, local buses and cable cars.

If you intend joining and leaving the party in Madeira, we assume, unless you have advised us otherwise, that you will meet and leave the party at hotel. If this is not your intention, please let us know in writing at least 5 weeks before departure.

Booking Your Own Travel Arrangements

If you prefer to arrange your own flights from a non-UK or regional airport or travel to your holiday destination by rail or car, you may qualify for 'land only' reductions, and we can provide details upon request. Feel free to reach out to us for more information.

Before finalizing any independent travel arrangements, especially if you're doing so 12 weeks or more before your intended travel date, please check with us first to ensure your holiday has been cleared to operate. If you plan to join your holiday locally, kindly inform us at least 14 weeks in advance.

If you're joining and leaving your holiday overseas, we assume, unless you specify otherwise, that you will join and leave the holiday at your hotel.

Although airport transfers are not included for those making independent travel arrangements, you may have the option to join the group at the overseas airport, depending on your flight arrival time. If interested, contact us at least 5 weeks before departure for more details.

Please be aware that your flight must arrive within 30 minutes of the group flight to be eligible for the group transfer. Additionally, we'll need your flight number, arrival time, and departure point to ensure the group leader can meet up with you. If you have a mobile, please ensure we have the number, and it is turned on while you are traveling for effective communication.

Hotel Transfers

When you book a Flight-Inclusive holiday, transfers between the airport and hotel and back are included. On some holidays, where we offer various flight options, the transfer vehicle may wait for all flights to land before transferring to the hotel.  

Luggage Allowance & Travel Documents

If you're booking a flight or rail inclusive holiday, rest assured that details of your travel arrangements and baggage allowance will be clearly outlined in your 'Final Travel Documents'. These will be sent to you approximately 10 days before your departure, ensuring you have all the necessary information for a smooth and well-prepared journey.

Personal Details Check

To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.

Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.

You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.

Passports and Visas

European Passport Advice

If you are planning to travel to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, you must meet the Schengen area rules.

Your passport must meet 2 requirements. It must be:

  • less than 10 years old on the day you enter (check the ‘date of issue’)
  • valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)

For some Schengen countries your passport may need to be less than 10 years old during your whole visit, and the 3 months at the end of your visit may need to be within 10 years of your passport’s issue date.

Check both the issue date and the expiry date in your passport. If you renewed your passport early, extra months may have been added to its expiry date. This could affect the requirement for your passport to be less than 10 years old.

Non British Passport holders should consult the host country’s embassy for applicable passport and visa entry requirements.

Meals

Breakfast and dinners are included in the holiday price. Hotel breakfasts are buffet style and include a variety of dishes such as fresh fruit, salad, yoghurt, cold meats, cereal, eggs, bacon, breads, cake and pastries. 

You'll dine in the hotel restaurants, giving you the opportunity to sample the excellent Madeiran cuisine. Madeiran dishes are usually created using locally sourced fresh ingredients, and usually consist of soup, meat or fish, vegetables and potatoes. 

Lunches are not included in the holiday price and these can be taken as picnics or in local cafes.

During the festive holidays, dine in the Enotel Sunset Bay in Ponta do Sol and enjoy a festive atmosphere with delicious local delicacies. On Christmas Eve savour celebratory drinks and a festive buffet. After dinner hotel guests join local families at the Christmas Eve mass in the local church a short stroll from the hotel. Christmas Eve is celebrated more than Christmas Day in Madeira. Christmas Day is usually quieter and families eat and gather around the Christmas tree at home. You'll celebrate Christmas Day with a quieter but delicious festive dinner in the Enotel Sunset Bay restaurant. Fresh fish and pork are usually the main dishes of traditional Christmas dinner in Madeira. 

Footwear & Kit List

Footwear

Lightweight waterproof walking boots with a good moulded sole (such as Vibram or similar) and a deep tread and which provide ankle support are strongly recommended and may be essential for some walks.

General Kit List

Outdoor activities are always safer and more enjoyable if you are prepared.

If you have not travelled with us before the following list might be of use:

  • Waterproof jacket (Goretex or similar) and trousers
  • Lightweight quick-drying trousers
  • Walking T-shirt/shirts
  • Walking socks
  • Fleece or jumper
  • Sun hat, sunglasses, lip salve and sun block
  • Warm hat and gloves (if appropriate)
  • Swimwear (if appropriate)
  • Day sack (this should be able to carry all you would need for the day's activity)
  • Day sack liner
  • Water bottle - at least 1 litre capacity (more than 1 bottle may be required)
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Lunchbox
  • Walking poles (should you find them useful)
  • Sit mat

This list is not exhaustive and every walker is different and may have their own preference.

Torches / Headtorches

On this holiday you will find it extremely helpful to bring a head torch or hand held torch to assist you.

Travel Documents Checklist

Documents and Information to take with you:

  • Passport (make sure it's yours and valid)
  • Your travel tickets or e-ticket itinerary
  • Any visa or electronic travel authorisation (if required)
  • Holiday money
  • Credit or debit cards (and separate details of who to call if lost)
  • Car parking ticket and car park directions (if prebooked)
  • Coach or rail travel tickets (if prebooked)
  • Your holiday Booking Confirmation document
  • Your travel insurance details
  • Alternative form of identification (such as a driving licence)
  • Photocopy of the personal details pages of your passport
  • A valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if relevant
  • Details of any medical condition or allergy your holiday leader should know about

Electricity in Portugal

Electricity is supplied at 220 Volts. If you wish to use electrical equipment you will need a European two pin adaptor with round pins. More information can be found at https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/

Water To Go

Opting for filtered water from a reusable bottle with its built-in water filter, like the Water-to-go bottle available at www.watertogo.eu, is a sustainable alternative to single-use sealed water bottles. Simply refill it from any water source and contribute to saving the environment from disposable plastic bottles.

Exciting news: Water-to-go has introduced two new bottles to their collection. The Active bottle is designed to fit bike water bottle holders, and the Sugarcane bottle is an even more planet-friendly option. Crafted from fibrous cane, a by-product of liquid extraction, it undergoes a process to create plant-based plastic. Explore the details on the Water-to-Go website for this innovative new range.

As a token of appreciation for your commitment to the environment, we've secured an exclusive 15% discount with Water-to-Go for you. Visit www.watertogo.eu and use the code RWW15 during your order.                        

Note: If you're booked on a long-haul holiday departing after November 1, 2023, you'll receive a complimentary Water to Go bottle, sent to your home address 2 or 3 weeks before your holiday. Thank you for being a part of our sustainable journey!

Maps, Guidebooks & Other Information

Maps, Guidebooks & More

Many local libraries stock a selection of travel guides and books which may offer you more information. Apart from any books available in local libraries, the internet is now an excellent resource for information about holiday destinations. You may find the below websites, books and programmes useful. 

Maps of the areas we visit (1:200 000 scale) are available locally and at specialist map shops in the UK. 

Suggested map is 'Madeira Tour and Trail Map - David Brawn. To give you an idea of the walking on offer on Madeira why not take a look at the Trailblazer Madeira Walks book with downloadable GPS tracks and waypoints. Written by Oliver Breda. 

Visit Madeira

Visit Portugal

If you key many of the local places mentioned in this holiday fact sheet into YouTube, you will find a vast array of spectacular footage of the area.

Funchal, Madeira Islands by Unravel Travel TV on Youtube. 

Madeira Travel Guide 2020 by Madeira Travel Guide et al.

A Birdwatcher’s guide to Portugal, the Azores and Madeira Archipelagos by Colm Moore

Madeira Walks: Challenging Trails and High Altitude Routes by Shirely and Mike White Head, Rosamund Brawn et al.

Lonely Planet Pocket Madeira by Lonely Planet and Marc Di Duca

BBC 4’s TV programme – Nature Wonderlands: Islands of Evolution see’s Richard Fortey travel to Madeira in episode 3 to examine volcanic islands.

The Map Shop

If you cannot find the maps or books locally we recommend:

The Map Shop
5 High Street
Upton upon Severn, Worcs
WR8 0HJ
England

Tel: 01684 593 146
Website: www.themapshop.co.uk
E-mail: themapshop@btinternet.com

If you key many of the local places mentioned in this holiday fact sheet into YouTube, you will find a vast array of spectacular footage of the area.

Weather

Visit the following websites for an idea of the climate in your destination:

Staying Healthy On Holiday

Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

Health Advice for Portugal

No compulsory immunisations are required for visits to Portugal. 

You should be up to date with the usual immunisations recommended in the UK. 

You may wish to consider immunisations against Tetanus. 

Dengue fever exists in Portugal; please take normal precautions against mosquito bites.

Further Travel Advice

For further advice please visit:

You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.

Travel Insurance

It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.

The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.

Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.

In the event that you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.

If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you being unable to demonstrate that you are insured.

Our house broker MPI should be considered for whom we are an affiliate and contact information is on our website and will be referred to in your booking confirmation.

If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.

EHIC & GHIC Cards

Starting January 1st, 2021, you, as a UK traveller, can continue using your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) throughout its valid five-year period, granting you access to medical assistance during your holiday until its expiry date. Be aware, though, that this coverage will no longer extend to Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland. In case you don't have a valid EHIC, you can apply for a new UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which will replace the EHIC as it gets phased out.

It's essential to emphasize that the EHIC/GHIC, while valuable, should not be regarded as a substitute for comprehensive medical or travel insurance. For your peace of mind and comprehensive coverage, considering additional insurance is highly recommended.

For more information, please visit www.nhs.uk/ehic

Personal Safety

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.

When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!

Cultural Awareness

Responsible Travel

We are dedicated to promoting responsible travel practices that prioritise the well-being of both the environment and local communities. We believe in the transformative power of travel and aim to minimize our ecological footprint by selecting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging waste reduction, and supporting sustainable transportation options where possible. Our walking tours are designed to immerse participants in the local culture, fostering meaningful connections with the communities we visit. We strive to leave a positive impact by engaging in responsible tourism activities, respecting local customs, and contributing to the preservation of natural landscapes. Through our commitment to responsible travel, we aim to create enriching experiences for our guests while actively contributing to the conservation of the destinations we explore.

The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust

Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.

The primary focus of our Trust's financial support is directed towards Britain's premier walking charity, The Ramblers. They play a crucial role in advocating the benefits and significance of walking to the British public. Additionally, our Trust invites applications for small grants from local organizations in the UK that require support for walking-oriented activities. This encompasses initiatives such as establishing footpaths and bridleways, funding for the reconstruction of bridges and refurbishing huts, and bursary funding for organisations that support individuals to enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors..

For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.

Heart and Sole

We appreciate that we are in a fortunate position to be able to use our profits to help make a difference to people's lives. Heart & Sole is a venture managed by our office staff, whose aim is to reach the heart of the communities in the countries we visit. Through Heart & Sole, we hope to make more of a long term, direct impact to these communities, particularly in less developed countries where even a small amount goes a long way. See our website for more information and details of some of the projects we support.

Staying In Touch

Mobile Phones

Kindly share a mobile phone contact number with us. We'll utilize this solely for crucial communication pertaining to your holiday arrangements.

Ensure your mobile phone remains switched on and easily accessible when en route to the airport or during transit delays. This way, we can promptly reach you with any last-minute updates concerning your travel plans.

In consideration of others, we request that you switch off your mobile phone during walks or make an effort to limit its usage. Additionally, during group meals, please minimize the use of mobile devices. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone on the journey.

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Useful Information

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Portugal

  • Capital

    Lisbon

  • Currency

    Euro

  • Language

    Portuguese

  • Time Difference

    UTC, UTC +01:00

  • Flight duration

    3hrs from UK

Visas and Passports

No Visa Required

Average weather

  • January

    11°C

    Avg. Rain: 109mm

  • February

    12°C

    Avg. Rain: 93mm

  • March

    13°C

    Avg. Rain: 75mm

  • April

    14°C

    Avg. Rain: 66mm

  • May

    16°C

    Avg. Rain: 52mm

  • June

    19°C

    Avg. Rain: 26mm

  • July

    21°C

    Avg. Rain: 12mm

  • August

    22°C

    Avg. Rain: 16mm

  • September

    20°C

    Avg. Rain: 44mm

  • October

    17°C

    Avg. Rain: 91mm

  • November

    14°C

    Avg. Rain: 111mm

  • December

    12°C

    Avg. Rain: 120mm

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