We love —
- Waking up to sweeping Atlantic views from a hillside hotel, where breakfast comes with ocean breezes and a front-row seat to sunrise.
- Following Madeira’s levadas, narrow, flower-fringed trails that lead through emerald valleys, past waterfalls, and into the heart of the island’s lush interior.
- Diving into Madeira’s local flavours, especially a plate of espetada - juicy beef skewers grilled over open flames and served with garlicky bolo do caco bread.
Customer reviews —
Discover a stunning hotel with a 360-degree view of Madeira Bay. Excursions designed especially for you, for a 100% immersive experience.
Your itinerary in brief —
Get ready to explore the paradise of Madeira like never before.
Imagine this: crystal clear waters meeting lush green landscapes, where every corner reveals a perfect balance between nature, culture and adventure. Madeira is not just a destination, it's a dream come true for any traveller seeking relaxation and excitement.
Welcome to the Island of the Gods. As soon as you set foot on this magnificent island, you won't just be visiting: you'll be entering a world of breathtaking beauty, rich culture and unforgettable experiences. Its mild climate all year round invites you to discover spectacular landscapes, from vertiginous cliffs to enchanting gardens.
Your tour at a glance:
Day 1: Arrival in Funchal
Day 2: Excursion to the west – Porto Moniz
Day 3: Funchal
Day 4: Excursion to the east of the island
Day 5: Funchal
Day 6: Paradise Valley – Half-day hike
Day 7: Funchal
Day 8: Departure
Please note:
- The order of excursions and activities may be changed depending on weather conditions, local circumstances or other factors beyond our control. We always do our best to offer you the full experience, but adjustments may be made to ensure your safety and comfort.
-The tours are accompanied by an English-speaking guide.
-The minimum group size is 8 people.
-The vehicle is air-conditioned and adapted to the number of participants.
Your itinerary in detail —
Day 1: Arrival in Funchal
Welcome at the airport and transfer to the Ocean Gardens Hotel 4*.
Included:
- Shared airport transfer from Madeira Airport - FNC (for flight-inclusive bookings only).
- Overnight at Ocean Gardens Hotel 4*.
DAY 2: EXCURSION TO THE WEST – PORTO MONIZ
First stop in a small fishing village: Miradouro de Câmara de Lobos, at Pico da Torre, west of Funchal. The port is nestled in a cove lined with picturesque houses. Continue to the second highest cliff in the world and the highest in Europe: Cabo Girão (entrance included). You will enjoy a magnificent view of Câmara de Lobos and Funchal.
Head to Ribeira Brava, with some free time to stroll around. In São Vicente, admire the narrow streets and typical houses before reaching Véu da Noiva, a famous waterfall that flows directly into the sea. Arrive in Porto Moniz for lunch (included) and a visit to the natural pools. Last stop in Calheta, known for its artificial sandy beach.
Duration: full day — 8 hours
Included: entrance to Cabo Girão, lunch and transfers
Group: minimum 8 people
Included:
- Breakfast.
- 1 x full-day West Island tour (lunch included, excluding drinks).
- Overnight at Ocean Gardens Hotel 4*.
DAY 3: FUNCHAL
Enjoy a full day at leasure.
Included:
- Breakfast.
- Overnight at Ocean Gardens Hotel 4*.
Day 4: Excursion to the east of the island
Departure from Funchal to Pico do Areeiro, Madeira's third highest mountain, rising to 1,818 metres. On the way down to Santana, stop at Ribeiro Frio to visit the trout hatchery (entrance fee not included) and the Laurissilva forest with its endemic trees and plants.
In Santana, discover the typical regional houses and enjoy lunch (included). Return to Funchal via the north coast, passing through Porto da Cruz and its view of Penha d'Águia, then through Ponta de São Lourenço and its lunar landscapes.
Duration: full day — 8 hours
Included: lunch and transfers
Group: minimum 8 people
Included:
- Breakfast.
- 1 x full-day East Island tour (lunch included, excluding drinks).
- Overnight at Ocean Gardens Hotel 4*.
DAY 5: FUNCHAL
Enjoy another leisure day.
Included:
- Breakfast.
- Overnight at Ocean Gardens Hotel 4*.
DAY 6: PARADISE VALLEY – HALF-DAY HIKE
Paradise Valley – Serra do Faial: an easy walk on flat terrain in the south-east of the island. Walk through a green valley with breathtaking views of isolated villages and Camacha.
The trail follows a levada lined with flowers, under a canopy of eucalyptus and oak trees. Departure from Vale Paraíso to Rochão, passing through cultivated terraces, flower gardens and panoramic views.
Level: easy
Duration: 2.5 hours – Distance: 5.5 km
Days: Tuesday and Friday
If this hike is not possible during your stay, another half-day levada walk will be offered.
Included: transfers
Group: minimum 8 people
Included:
- Breakfast.
- 1 x half-day Paradise Valley excursion.
- Overnight at Ocean Gardens Hotel 4*.
DAY 7: FUNCHAL
Enjoy your last full-day at leisure.
Included:
- Breakfast.
- Overnight at Ocean Gardens Hotel 4*.
DAY 8: DEPARTURE
Transfer to the airport for your return flight, bringing your journey to a close.
Included:
- Breakfast.
- Shared airport transfer to Madeira Airport - FNC (for flight-inclusive bookings only).
Important:
- The order of excursions and activities may be changed depending on weather conditions, local circumstances or other factors beyond our control. We always do our best to offer you the full experience, but adjustments may be made to ensure your safety and comfort.
-The tours are accompanied by an English-speaking guide.
-The minimum group size is 8 people.
-The vehicle is air-conditioned and adapted to the number of participants.
Important information about your tour and visits: The hotels, which comply with local standards, are indicative and may be changed locally for hotels of a similar category. The itinerary is subject to changes due to compelling reasons such as delayed flights, weather conditions or other cases of force majeure. The order of visits is also subject to change.
Your hotel —
Just for you:
Hand-picked just for you
You will stay at the Ocean Gardens Hotel 4* and have the choice between a Standard Sea View Room with balcony, a Standard Bay View Room with balcony or a Superior Bay View Room with balcony.
Perched above the Atlantic Ocean, nestled in the lush greenery typical of the island of Madeira, the Ocean Gardens View is a secluded spot where comfort, serenity and spectacular views come together.
Located near São Gonçalo and about an 11-minute drive from the historic centre of Funchal (and 14 minutes by bus), this peaceful 4-star hotel offers breathtaking sea views, lush tropical gardens and an intimate atmosphere ideal for recharging your batteries.
Bars and restaurants
Mountain & Sea Restaurant
In the main restaurant, you can choose from a selection of Mediterranean and Madeiran-inspired dishes, prepared using fresh, local produce. Fresh fish, grilled meats, local vegetables and aromatic herbs from the island make up a delicious and authentic menu, served on a breathtaking panoramic terrace.
Lounge Bar & Terrace
Make yourself comfortable in the lounge bar with a drink in hand at sunset. Indulge in a selection of Portuguese wines, house cocktails or natural juices while admiring the changing colours of the sky above the sea.
Pool Bar
Relax during the day by the infinity pool, with a refreshing cocktail or light snack at your fingertips. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, attentive service and, as always, the hotel's iconic spectacular views.
Activities and leisure
Swimming pool and solarium
On the fourth floor, discover the outdoor rooftop pool, offering panoramic views of Funchal Bay. Surrounding it is a natural terrace with sun loungers and parasols, inviting you to sunbathe and relax.
Wellness area
For a moment of complete relaxation, enjoy the sauna or treat yourself to a relaxing massage.
Gardens
Beautiful landscaped gardens surround the relaxation areas and offer a peaceful setting for walking or resting.
Golf
For golf enthusiasts, the Palheiro Golf Club is located approximately 3.5 kilometres from the hotel.
The maximum capacity of the rooms is 2 adults + 1 child. Single rooms are available at extra cost.
Your dining choices
This is a bed and breakfast stay. On the menu: fresh produce, local specialities, tropical fruits, pastries, hot dishes, fresh juices, and delicious coffee, everything you need to kick off your Madeiran adventures.
Choose to upgrade to half board at the next step of the booking process. Breakfast and your evening meal will be served in the main restaurant (drinks excluded, conditions apply.)
Your included excursions —
Your excursions on the Madeira Getaway tour
A trio of included excursions offering a complete discovery of Madeira, combining dramatic coastal scenery, mountain and forest landscapes, traditional villages, and a gentle levada walk through lush valleys.
Your optional excursions —
A day in Porto Santo
Embark on an unforgettable day in Porto Santo, starting with a boat trip aboard the "Lobo Marinho" in the morning.
On arrival on the island, enjoy a complete tour of Porto Santo, where you can discover its secrets and history. The afternoon is then free to spend how you like
A day in Porto Moniz
Discover the wonders of Madeira's west coast on this captivating excursion. Start with a visit to the charming fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, followed by a stop at Ribeira Brava. Passing through the picturesque municipalities of Ponta do Sol and Calheta, you will reach the majestic Paul da Serra plateau, which boasts views of the valleys covered by the Laurissilva forest.
In the afternoon, you'll ride along the magnificent Costa Norte to São Vicente, stopping at the top of Encumeada to admire the sea on both sides. The last stop will be at the Cabo Girão lookout, for spectacular views of the sea, Câmara de Lobos and Funchal.
Day trip to Fanal forest & Seixal beach
Discover the unique landscape of the age-old Fanal Forest, part of the Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll through open areas and Madeira's native forest, where the constant fog creates a fairytale atmosphere.
After, head down to Seixal Beach, which is famous for some of the best natural black sand in the world, and enjoy a refreshing swim.
Your journey to Madeira —
Flights:
You will be able to choose your airline and flight times when you make your booking, in either Economy, Premium, or Business class, depending on the destination and carrier. This flight may include one or more stopovers. Please review your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ, in order to offer the best price.
Luggage information
Luggage, meals and other services on board may be subject to an additional fee on certain airlines. It is possible to view details of luggage allowances when you choose your flights at the next stage of the booking process. If luggage is not included with your flight, please go to the airline's website before your departure to purchase your luggage for an additional fee.
For domestic flights, airlines do not always offer the option of reserving luggage. In this case, you will need to pay for it at the airport counter.
You will receive all the information you need to check in for your flights after you have made your reservation.
Your destination —
Funchal
Perched between rugged mountains and the endless Atlantic, Funchal is Madeira’s beating heart. Think old-world charm and modern flair, this island capital boasts natural beauty, rich history, and a laid-back coastal vibe.
Must-sees:
- The Funchal Cable Car: Offering panoramic views of the city, coastline, and surrounding mountains.
- Monte Palace Tropical Garden: A spectacular retreat featuring exotic flora, serene Japanese pagodas, and beautiful water features.
- Mercado dos Lavradores: A bustling farmers' market where you can sample tropical fruits and local delicacies.
Culinary culture:
Funchal is a paradise for food lovers, boasting a fusion of Portuguese flavours and island specialities. Savour the traditional espetada, a delicious beef skewer seasoned with garlic and bay leaves, or try black scabbardfish with banana, a uniquely Madeiran dish. Don’t miss a taste of bolo do caco, a traditional garlic bread, or a glass of Madeira wine, renowned worldwide for its rich, complex flavours.
Dive deeper:
For a more raw experience of Funchal, explore the historic old town, where cobbled streets lead to charming cafés and art-adorned walls. Visit the Madeira Story Centre to learn about the island’s fascinating history or embark on a Levada walk, following ancient irrigation channels through lush, mountainous terrain.
Good to know:
The local currency is the Euro (EUR). The best time to visit is from April to October, when the weather is warm and pleasant. Funchal is well-connected, with a reliable public transport system and plenty of taxis. While the city offers plenty of attractions, Madeira’s rugged coastline and mountainous interior make for excellent day trips beyond the capital.
