When you think about doing a hike in Madeira, chances are the same iconic names pop into your head: 25 Fontes, the epic Arieiro / Ruivo ridge, the lush Caldeirão Verde. They’re all jaw-droppingly beautiful no doubt about it. But here’s the thing: you’re not the only one who thinks so.
Crowds, selfie sticks, and parking nightmares have become the norm on these trails, especially during high season. But what if we told you there’s a whole other side of Madeira quieter, wilder, more intimate that most people completely overlook?
This is your invitation to ditch the obvious and discover five of Madeira’s most underrated hikes, all reachable by car. Grab your keys, and get ready to fall in love with trails the tour buses don’t reach.
1. Vereda da Garganta Funda – Raw Atlantic Drama
Hidden away in Ponta do Pargo, on Madeira’s rugged western tip, lies a short hike with massive impact. Vereda da Garganta Funda leads to a balcony over one of the island’s tallest waterfalls a dramatic cascade dropping from green cliffs into the Atlantic Ocean far below.
Why it’s underrated: It’s short, it’s far from Funchal, and most people don’t even know it exists.
Need to know:
- Distance: 1 km round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Drive tip: The road to Ponta do Pargo is smooth and scenic. Park near the lighthouse and walk a few minutes to the trailhead.
Carwave bonus: Make it a sunset trip the views are golden, and you’ll probably have them all to yourself.
2. Levada do Moinho + Levada Nova – A Twin-Trail Adventure
EverIn the lush hills above Ponta do Sol lies a loop that combines two levadas the older Levada do Moinho and the higher Levada Nova. This hike is a treat: charming stone paths, quiet countryside, cliffside sections, tunnels, and waterfalls. You’ll see Madeira’s agricultural side, with banana trees and small farms, as well as wide valley views.
Why it’s underrated: Despite its beauty, it doesn’t make the typical tourist lists, and parking is easy right at the start.
Need to know:
- Distance: ~8 km loop
- Difficulty: Moderate (some exposed sections and a tunnel bring a flashlight)
- Drive tip: The road to Ponta do Sol is a postcard in itself, with coastal and mountain scenery.
Pro tip: Do it clockwise to save the most spectacular sections for last.
3. Vereda do Pesqueiro – Straight to the Sea
Looking for a heart-pumping descent with a dramatic coastal payoff? This steep but stunning trail leads from the charming village of Jardim do Mar all the way down to a remote pebble beach hugged by cliffs.
Why you’ve probably missed it: It’s not marked as a major hike but that’s what makes it magical.
Need to know:
- Distance: ~3 km round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate to hard (the climb back up is real!)
- Drive tip: Park in Jardim do Mar’s old town. The drive down to this coastal village is already part of the adventure.
Vibe check: You’ll feel like you’re in a film. And once you reach the sea, you may be the only human there.
4. Levada do Castelejo – Rural Charm and Forest Feels
Madeira isn’t just about misty mountains and cliffs it’s also about real island life. This trail takes you through a landscape of banana trees, small farms, forest, and old-world charm in the eastern part of the island.
Starting near Porto da Cruz, it’s a calm, reflective walk perfect for those who want something more authentic and off-the-radar.
Need to know:
- Distance: ~5 km round trip
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Drive tip: Porto da Cruz is an easy and scenic drive from Funchal with great ocean views.
Carwave bonus: After the hike, reward yourself with a local Poncha or fresh seafood by the sea.
5. Vereda da Rocha do Navio – Ocean Views and a Hidden Fajã
Yes, Balcões is known but not like this. Most visitors show up mid-morning when it’s already busy. ButIn Santana, far from the tourist crowds, this short but steep trail leads to a secluded fajã a flat, fertile strip of land at sea level. The descent offers jaw-dropping views over the ocean and cliffs, and when you reach the bottom, you’re surrounded by small farm plots and the sound of the waves.
Why it’s underrated: Most visitors only see it from above or take the cable car down, never exploring on foot.
Need to know:
- Distance: ~3 km round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate (steep climb back up unless you take the cable car)
- Drive tip: Easy parking near the Rocha do Navio cable car.
Pro tip: Combine the hike with a scenic drive along Madeira’s north coast for even more wow moments.
Explore Differently With Carwave
The best adventures start when you leave the obvious behind. And with the freedom of a rental car, you can access trailheads far from the crowds no tour schedules, no buses, no stress.
With Carwave, you get:
- Quick, smooth online booking
- Interactive 360º views of each vehicle
- A growing map of trails, beaches and picnic spots (private for our clients eyes only)
- A fleet ready for mountain roads, narrow alleys or coastal drives
So whether you’re craving silence, soul-stirring views or a deep connection with nature, Madeira still has secrets to share. You just need the right wheels to get there.
Book your next adventure with Carwave and let the road lead you to places others don’t even know exist.
