Recommendations

Levada Pico do Areeiro - Pico Ruivo

Distance: 12.2 km Difficulty level: High Time: 2 hours one way only Note: We do not recommend bringing small children on the hike, as there are many steep stairways. However, you can go by car and enjoy the viewpoints, which offer amazing views.

Levada das 25 Fontes e Risco

If you’re doing the 25 Fontes hike, you can easily combine it with a couple of nearby levadas. The most common addition is Risco Waterfall, which shares the same starting point and path for a large section. You can also extend your walk toward Levada do Alecrim, which is usually quieter and offers beautiful views along the way. Combining these routes makes a full day and rewarding hiking experience in the area.

Levada Ponta de São Lourenço

Distance: 3 km (6 km round trip) Difficulty: Medium Duration: 3h Note: You can go with small children, as the walk is easy. We recommend bringing a swimsuit because you can also get in the sea.

Botanical Garden Cable Car and Wicker Toboggan Ride ''carrozas de cestos"

A very popular tourist activity on the island is the cable car ride. You arrive at the botanical garden, which is very pleasant for walking and exploring with children; then for the descent, you go down in the island’s traditional ''carrozas de cestos''. Opening hours: 8:45 Last boarding: 17:45 Ride duration: 15 to 25 minutes each way Route: Funchal–Monte, with an elevation difference of 3,200 meters

Cabo Girão

One of the best views on the island, at 580 meters high. Cabo Girão is the highest viewpoint in Europe.

Natural Pools - Porto Moniz

Taberna da Poncha

A great group activity is to go try poncha, the island’s traditional drink, this is also Katherine’s dad’s favorite spot on the island. While you’re there, you’ll also be near the island’s vineyards, so it’s a perfect chance to visit one of them

Restaurante Lá ao Fundo

One of our favorite restaurant in the Island. Fusion of African+Asian+Portuguese flavours (good price/quality with an nice wine list)

Konsai | Poke & Japanese Food

Best sushi in the Island, (Venezuelan style)

Kampo by Chef Julio Pereira

Great chef

Akua

Restaurante Abrigo do Pastor restaurant

Traditional food of madeira

Restaurante O Lagar

Recommendation of the best espetadas (skewers) on the island: 1. Santo António: a very good option; they don’t take reservations, but service is fast. 2. Polar: the best meat, small place and no reservations accepted. 3. Lagar: the most pleasant, spacious, and with very good food.

Restaurante la Gruta

Traditional Picado & Make sure to try the island’s “grilled limpets” (lapas grilhadas) at this or any other restaurant.

Pereira D'Oliveira Winery

Last but not least... We recommend doing a wine tasting at Oliveiras. Madeira wine is very special and truly unique to the island. In the heart of Funchal, you’ll have the chance to taste incredible wines, some of them even older than you, which make it a memorable and authentic experience.