Madeira Island by E-Bike

Day 1: Arrival to Santa Cruz
Day 2: Santa Cruz - Camacha - Porto da Cruz (Santana), 15 or 23 mi. (25 or 38 km) 
Day 3: Santana - Porto Moniz, 22 or 27 mi. (52 km)
Day 4: Bica da Cana - Porto Moniz, 23 mi. (37 km)
Day 5: Prazeres - Porto Moniz, 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 6: Ribeira Brava - Funchal, 22 mi. (36 km)
Day 7: Free day to explore Funchal, 33 mi. (53 km)
Day 8: Departure from Funchal

Day 1: Arrival to Santa Cruz
You will be transported from Funchal Airport to the hotel at Santa Cruz Village (15 minutes). Here you will be briefed on the tour once you finish your check-in. Depending on your arrival time, we suggest you take a taxi (at your own expense) and visit the tip of the island, Ponta de São Lourenço. Here you will find some of the finest cliff scenery on Madeira island. A sunset here is the perfect welcome to the Island. 

Sample hotel: Santa Cruz Village Hotel

Day 2: Santa Cruz - Camacha - Porto da Cruz (Santana), 15 or 23 mi. (25 or 38 km) 
After a traditional breakfast, a short transfer (20 minutes) will take you to Camacha where you'll begin pedaling. An incredible panoramic route awaits you, taking you through some of the most beautiful Island roads until Porto da Cruz, a village known to house one of the last rum distilleries on the island. Once there, you can take a car transfer to the hotel (15 minutes), or you can continue cycling. For those who continue on the bike, the last few miles are challenging, but are certainly worth the impressive views. The day ends at Santana, whose small A-frame houses adorn many postcards. 

Elevation gain: 300m or 1000m

Sample hotel: Hotel O Colmo

Day 3: Santana - Porto Moniz, 22 or 27 mi. (52 km)
Today, you'll leave Santana behind and head towards Porto Moniz, a picturesque gem nestled at the northwest tip of Madeira. Known for its spectacular natural ocean pools, Porto Moniz offers a serene escape and some of the most breathtaking scenery on the island. As you ride along scenic coastal roads, you'll pass through charming villages and stop at stunning viewpoints. Around every bend, you'll be greeted by another unforgettable vista—each one a testament to Madeira's unique beauty. Enjoy, a refreshing swim in the iconic natural pools and savor the island’s delicious local cuisine, the perfect end to a perfect day!

Elevation gain: 1200m

Sample hotel: Aqua Natura Bay

Day 4: Bica da Cana - Porto Moniz, 23 mi. (37 km)
Today’s adventure begins at Bica da Cana, right in the heart of the island, where the panoramic views from the summit are nothing short of spectacular. Surrounded by the lush São Vicente valley, you'll be embraced by the vibrant greens of the Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The route takes you on a long, gentle descent towards Porto Moniz, offering breathtaking vistas of the sea at every turn. As you cycle through the island’s rugged interior, you'll uncover some of Madeira’s most remote and stunning viewpoints. Upon reaching Porto Moniz, take a moment to relax and fully soak in the charm of this idyllic destination.

Elevation gain: 300m

Sample hotel: Aqua Natura Bay

Day 5: Prazeres - Porto Moniz, 25 mi. (40 km)
Since having started on the eastern side and crossing the north face of the island, today you will cycle along the west coast. Madeira is not very wide but you'll find that this place is full of surprises! Today, for example, the scenery will astound you. You will ride between forest roads and typical hamlets until reaching Calheta, a charming town known for its warmth and sun-filled days. Consider visiting the sugar cane mill and museum, where you can learn about Madeira's old traditions. To reach Calheta, you can choose between a long and a short route. Depending on what you choose, there is a transfer required before you begin cycling (10 minutes).

Elevation gain: 800m

Sample hotel: Aqua Natura Bay

Day 6: Ribeira Brava - Funchal, 22 mi. (36 km)
On this final day of cycling, you’ll head towards Funchal, one of Madeira’s oldest and most iconic cities. Renowned for its beauty and rich history, Funchal is a true gem. So, pedal with energy as you embark on this last stage of your journey. Along the way, you’ll stop at Cape Girão, Europe’s highest sea cliff and the second highest in the world, rising 580 meters above sea level. This awe-inspiring spot is famous for its glass-floored viewing platform, offering breathtaking panoramic views that will leave you speechless. As you near Funchal, take time to explore Câmara de Lobos, a charming fishing village that inspired Winston Churchill to capture its scenic beauty in his paintings. Make this final day an unforgettable celebration of your Madeira adventure!

Elevation gain: 900m

Sample hotel: Castanheiro Boutique Hotel

Day 7: Free day to explore Funchal, 33 mi. (53 km)
Waking up in Funchal is a true delight, and today is yours to fully embrace all that this vibrant city has to offer. As Madeira's most famous city, Funchal invites you to explore its lively, cosmopolitan heart. Wander through the bustling streets and discover historic landmarks like the grand cathedral, or seek out the best viewpoints to take in stunning ocean vistas. There’s no shortage of adventures to be had! Be sure to visit the Funchal Market, where you can savor the island’s finest local delicacies. For those feeling more adventurous, why not extend your cycling journey with an optional ride to Pico do Arieiro, one of the highest peaks in the Madeira Archipelago? This challenging climb offers a truly unforgettable experience, often placing you above a sea of clouds with the rugged central mountains of Madeira towering below, creating the sensation of being on another world. Whether you choose to explore the charm of Funchal or tackle the magic of Pico do Arieiro, today is one you’ll remember forever!

Elevation gain: 1900m

Sample hotel: Castanheiro Boutique Hotel

Day 8: Departure from Funchal
Your transfer will be arranged according to your preference. If you're looking to extend your adventure, consider spending an extra night, exploring another city or even adding an extra day of cycling.

Love Madeira Island? Check out our hiking tour or other tours in Portugal!

You will stay in very nice 3- and 4-star hotels. A sample hotel list can be found in the day-to-day itinerary.