Adventure · 5 min read
Madeira: cliff hikes, ocean pools and spring all year
Portugal's Atlantic island is the active getaway that still feels like a vacation.
The island
Madeira sits off Morocco with temperatures in the 60s–70s all year. Think Hawaii-green cliffs, levada trails along old irrigation channels, and natural lava pools to swim in.
Best hikes
Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo at sunrise (above the clouds), Levada do Caldeirão Verde, and the easy Ponta de São Lourenço peninsula walk.
Where to stay
Funchal for restaurants and ease; Calheta for sunsets and a slower pace. Lovely 4-star hotels run $120–$180.
Jamie's quick tips
- Rent a car with an automatic — the roads are steep.
- Swim at Porto Moniz pools.
- Fly via Lisbon and add 3 nights there.
