Madeira is one of those places where volcanic peaks tower over dramatic, green landscapes, and you can explore centuries-old forests amongst other beautiful settings. This Portuguese archipelago is a hidden gem, especially for nature lovers. While many people rush to more popular European spots, Madeira quietly stands out. With its incredible landscapes and focus on sustainable tourism, it’s the ideal getaway for anyone looking to truly connect with nature.
Accessibility and booming UK connections
Madeira has become increasingly accessible in recent years, with direct flights from the UK bringing the island closer than ever before. Holidaymakers are now able to catch more regular flights from London to Funchal, Madeira’s capital. Statistics show that tourism on the island has been increasing over the past five years, especially.
Whether you’re arriving for a short break or a longer adventure, the island’s flights from the UK make it simple to escape the bustle of daily life and step into a completely new, natural environment.
Volcanic peaks, sea cliffs and laurel forest
Madeira is home to a truly diverse landscape. At the island’s heart, the volcanic ridgelines of Pico Ruivo and Pico Areeiro tower above the clouds, providing awe-inspiring views and some of the most rewarding hikes in Europe. These two peaks are connected by a popular route known as the Pico-to-Pico trail, which allows you to summit both in a single walk.
The island’s coastline offers equally dramatic scenery, with sea cliffs like Cabo Girão reaching heights of 580 metres, offering magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean. The cliffs are among the highest in Europe, and standing on their glass-floored viewpoint, you get a real sense of Madeira’s beauty.
The local geography also includes lush, green laurel forests, which have earned UNESCO World Heritage status. Known locally as laurisilva, these forests are some of the last remaining examples of a unique subtropical ecosystem that used to stretch across Europe. Walking through the twisting, moss-covered trees, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a world untouched by time.
Fascinating levadas
One of Madeira’s most distinctive features is its network of levadas. These historical irrigation channels have been repurposed as walking paths. Spanning over 2,170 kilometres, these routes offer you a unique way to explore the island. As you hike along the levadas, you’ll pass through some of the island’s most stunning landscapes – picture steep valleys and thriving forests.
Famous levada routes such as Vereda dos Balcões and Levada do Furado (PR11 and PR10) take you through laurel forests filled with the sights and sounds of nature. These engineered structures were originally built to carry water from the mountains to the island’s lower regions, but today, they offer a remarkable way to connect with local culture and biodiversity.
Anyone who enjoys walking holidays will find Madeira’s levadas fascinating. The well-maintained paths are accessible for all levels of walkers, whether you’re an experienced hiker or someone simply looking for a gentle stroll through some of Europe’s most beautiful landscapes.
Sustainable tourism and new trail‑access fee
Madeira is not only an extraordinary destination for nature lovers but also a leader in sustainable tourism. To protect its delicate ecosystems and maintain its many trails, Madeira introduced a €3 tourist fee in January 2025 for non-residents visiting more than 30 managed trails. This fee helps to fund maintenance and conservation efforts, ensuring that the island’s natural beauty remains preserved for future generations.
This step reflects a commitment to protecting the island’s natural environments. By paying this fee, you’ll be directly contributing to the preservation of the very landscapes you’ve come to explore.
