Madeira Uncovered - Funchal and Beyond

Madeira Uncovered - Funchal and Beyond

Breathe in the scent of tropical flowers at Funchal's Botanical Garden, set in the grounds of a quinta (estate) that once belonged to the Reid family.

If you like your holidays to feature strolls in gloriously colourful gardens, mood-lifting sunshine, panoramic mountain views, wonderful countryside walks and local wine and crafts, then Madeira really is a find. And our excellent-value Madeira tours let you find it at your own pace. Excursions include a fascinating full island tour and Madeira wine tasting - leaving you with free time to spend following the ‘levada’ paths that cross the dramatic volcanic landscapes and meander through verdant forests. Basing ourselves in the capital, there'll be plenty of opportunity for you to visit Funchal and tour this lovely, laid-back city.

What's Included:

• Nationwide return chauffeur service
• 7 nights in hotels
• 20 meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners
• Free bar open 24 hours a day with international branded drinks
• 5 excursions & visits
• 3.5 days free time
• International flights
• Titan tour manager
• Headset system on excursions

• Porterage services included

  Excursions:

• Tour of Funchal by local guide
• Entry to the Botanical Gardens
• Wine tasting
• Full-day island tour including lunch
• Excursion to Eira do Serrado and Monte

Operator: Titan Travel

Day 1 - UK - Funchal

Our nationwide shared chauffeur service collects you from home for your flight to Madeira. On arrival, we transfer to Enotel Lido in Funchal, on an all-inclusive board basis.

Day 2 - Funchal

We waste no time in getting to know Madeira’s bustling capital today with a guided walk - starting with the colourful market. Here, freshly caught fish and succulent fruits are on full display. We’ll also stop by the renowned Botanical Gardens ablaze with subtropical flora, and a wine manufacturer where we’ll enjoy a delicious tasting. After we've finished our tour of Funchal, the afternoon is yours to spend as you like. Perhaps take some time to enjoy the painted doors of Rua de Santa Maria or the carefully nurtured Palheiro Gardens.

Day 3 - Funchal

Let loose in Funchal today - there’s so much to see. Modern Funchal is a far cry from its days of pirates. The cobbled streets now blend with a modern city with top-class restaurants. Maybe take a cable car up to Monte from the Old Town or the Botanical Gardens for an alternative way to experience the beautiful vistas. The Jardim Tropical Monte Palace is a tranquil gem with koi-filled crystal-clear lakes and peacocks freely roaming the manicured landscape.

Day 4 - Island Tour

Enjoy a tour of the island, including Pico da Torre for beautiful views over Camara de Lobos’ dazzling bay and Cabo Girao, the world’s second highest cliff. On to Ribeira Brava, one of the island’s first parishes, and through the jagged mountains to Encumeada, where the views are simply stunning. Travel north on a scenic drive through Chao dos Louros to Sao Vicente, set where a beautiful valley meets the sea, before returning south to Funchal.

Day 5 - Funchal

Today is free for you to spend as you wish. Take an optional excursion to Pico do Arieiro or return to the city’s centre to stroll along its narrow cobbled streets with interesting old buildings. Perhaps take in views across the island on a cable car to Monte, where wealthy aristocratic families have built their homes, and the 18th-century Monte Palace sits amongst wonderful tropical gardens. If you’re a fan of the great outdoors, you might want to discover the local countryside - there are numerous trails to follow for varying capabilities and distances.

Day 6 - Eira do Serrado - Monte

This morning we travel to Eira do Serrado, for an inspiring view down the valley of chestnut trees, surrounded by steep volcanic mountains. Far below is the isolated village of Nun’s Valley, known to be where nuns took refuge from the pirates who frequently attacked Madeira. Travel on to Monte to visit Our Lady of Monte Church. The most important pilgrimage site in Madeira, with lively processions held every August. It contains the austere tomb of Charles I of Habsburg and a revered statue of Our Lady of Monte.

Day 7 - Funchal

Spend a day at leisure exploring as you please. You could join the optional excursion to the southeast coast of the island, or you might choose to explore Funchal’s canal system under your own steam. In the 16th century an open canal system was developed, from the wetter regions of the island to the sun parched regions of the south. There are over 200 enduring, beautiful walks along these levadas, with varying levels of difficulty across dramatic landscapes and through lush vegetation. There are five to choose from in Funchal.

Day 8 - Funchal - UK

We transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK. Upon arrival, your vehicle will be waiting for the journey home.