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• UK Guided Walking
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• Singles Walking
• Strolling/ Exploring
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Madeira is an island of fascinating natural beauty and enticing climate. It rises steeply from the Atlantic Ocean standing, with its small island neighbours, in splendid isolation off the coast of Europe and Africa.

An island of volcanic origin, it is a haven for those seeking a relaxing holiday in close proximity to nature. A network of levadas, built to carry water from the springs in the north to irrigate the cultivated areas of the south contour along the mountain sides, their banks planted with wild hydrangeas, lilies and agapanthus.

Its mountains are rugged and inspiring often with splendid sea views. Gardens and parks are everywhere planted with all manner of exotic trees, shrubs and blooms

A number of walks follow levadas gently down hill and are one way in nature. The paths are generally of good quality with some uneven sections and also tunnels. They are a joy to walk along with the constant stream of water bubbling on one side and on the other, ever changing views of deep valleys and hillsides often with the sea in the background. Madeira is more than just levadas, offering dramatic cliff top walks along zig zag paths above the bubbling sea below and more challenging treks in the central mountain ranges. There is, however, plenty of easy terrain suitable for even the least experienced walker. Some walks, especially those which follow the levadas, do require a head for heights.

Hotel

We have chosen the Hotel Lusitania as our base. The Madeiran owner-managers, Ana and Jose, speak excellent English. It is located in a quiet residential area set in the hillside just 10 minute walk from a bus stop with breathtaking views over Funchal. The rooms, many with a balcony, have bath or shower, satellite TV and telephone. There is a small swimming pool, bar and terrace and a breakfast room which offers a full English breakfast.

Board

Breakfast is included, dinner will be arranged every evening by Alan in a nearby restaurant and is not included.

Walking

4 days of guided walking led by Alan. Average distance 7—8 miles.with little ascending, other than in the minibus.

Air Travel

Flights from London Gatwick to Funchal are included in the price. Flights can be arranged from many other airports in the UK, details and supplement available on request.

Strolling the Garden Island of Madeira

Madeira’s lovely climate entrances the visitor, and its levada paths are just right for excellent Strolling.

This is the island of flowers, of greenery, but also of great historical beauty. It has been touched by several sea faring nations in its short history, and walking though it’s leafy and rich countryside simply captivates.

We visit many gardens during our afternoon activities—Botanical, orchid, magnolia and tropical—such is the diversut such is the diversity of the islands flora.

Funchal—the capital has many wonderful buildings, squares and tree lined avenue’s. The central part of the island is very mountainous, and we glimpse their magnificence  during our travels.

We stay in the centre of Funchal at the Hotel do Centro. Costs shown here are for flight, hotel bed and breakfast, most lunches, transport and walking guides. Flights from most UK airports.

Our partners in Madeira Walking

Secret Hills Walking are pleased to be associated with New Experience Holidays, who organise flights, accommodation and transfers for these holidays and provide you with ATOL security.
All your joining instructions and individual flight arrangements will be made by Paul and Deborah Sawyer. Once you have committed to a holiday, we will forward a New Experience reservation form, and you should pay all deposits and final payments to New Experience Holidays.
Secret Hills Walking is responsible for marketing and selling the holidays and for arranging your itinery when you arrive in Madeira. You will receive individual attention throughout your holiday from us.

ATOL Bonding

You matter to us & we promise to provide you with a superb walking & social holiday, tailored specifically to your needs. We provide walking holidays for walkers & as walkers ourselves, we appreciate & understand the requirements of a walking holiday.