Back home North EAST SIDE History BOOK ONE DAY REQUEST A QUOTE BOOKING ONLINE OFFERS Best price guarantee Secure payment Flexible cancellation Itinerary & Hikes What to bring? Weather Restaurants 10 Places 8 hours One of the highlights of the day is a visit to the 17th century water mill in the pretty village of Achadinha, in the parish of São Jorge (municipality of Santana), the Moinho a Água, which looks like something out of a storybook. Still used for grinding grain, it is a living example of Madeira's agricultural heritage. Its history goes back more than 300 years.It was restored in 2000 and is now fully functional. It is fed by the waters of the Levada do Rei, which crosses part of the lush forest on the north coast of Madeira. It's also where you'll meet Carlos, the mill's guardian angel and your unofficial guide. At 83, this warm and lively gentleman is as much a part of the mill as the wheel itself. He'll probably point out that the wooden wheels still run as smoothly as they did in the 'good old days'. And his pride and joy are contagious. Come to see the mill and chat with Carlos. His stories, passion and warmth make Moinho a Água a true life experience and he even speaks a bit of English. Itinerary & Hikes Quinta do Furão is a stunning retreat on the north-east coast of Madeira. This charming property is set in a sprawling 5-hectare estate, with 3 hectares dedicated to organic vines, vegetables and herbs.The vineyard itself covers 2 hectares and boasts a wide range of grape varieties, including Arnsburger, Touriga Nacional, Verdelho and Tinta Roriz. With a range of dishes made from organic and locally sourced ingredients, many of which are grown on the estate, this gastronomic gem offers a tranquil setting that perfectly complements its culinary artistry. Indulge in the succulent roast lamb, the freshly caught seafood, or the Bife à Caldeirão Verde filled with Roquefort cheese dish. The vegetarian options are also delicious and my favorite is the Hamburger with Portobello mushrooms. Wine lovers will appreciate the selection of wines produced on the estate, featuring varieties such as Arnsburger and Touriga Nacional. Whether you choose to dine indoors or on the terrace overlooking the sea, dining at Quinta do Furão Restaurant is not just a meal, it's a sophisticated journey. You'll have plenty of time to ask questions, take photos and make the most of this private experience. Don't let this epic chance slip by! Dive into Madeira's jaw-dropping beauty and vibrant culture with our a Full Day Private Tour. All you have to do then is look forward to a carefully planned day. No need to worry about the logistics. With my guidance you can sit back, relax and really enjoy riding the clouds with me. BOOK now 01 Fortress of Faial viewpoint Built in the 18th century, the Fortim do Faial, to watch for invaders, offers visitors a trip back in time and also a panoramic view of the north coast of Madeira. 02 Viewpoint Curtado Offers one of the most dramatic scenes on Madeira's north coast. See Faial's coastal village tucked between the cliffs. 03 Viewpoint Rocha do Navio 04 Santana The traditional thatch-and-lava stone buildings that were once common throughout the north-east of the island. 05 Quinta do Furão Suggested lunch 06 São Jorje beach and ruins Housing the ruins of the sugar cane mills that were built there in the early days of the island's settlement. 07 Moinho do Achadinha An old watermill from the 17th century still functioning for grinding cereals. 08 Miradouro Beira da Quinta facing Arco de São Jorje, but you'll practically see the entire northwest coast. 09 Miradouro São Cristovão This viewpoint is known for the stunning views it offers, making it a popular place for tourists and locals alike. It is a perfect spot to enjoy picturesque sunsets or simply enjoy the tranquility and serenity of the natural surroundings. 10 Town of São Vicente Your must-have packing list A lightweight rain jacket: Madeira's microclimates can change from sunny to rainy in an instant. It's much better to have a raincoat and not need it than to get soaked and wish you had! Head torch: Perfect for those levada tunnels where your phone's flashlight just won't do. Also a lifesaver if you're hiking at sunrise or sunset. Sunscreen essentials: Don't forget your sunscreen, hat and sunglasses. Even when it's cloudy, Madeira's UV can be sneaky, especially in the summer due to its proximity to Ecuador. Water and snacks: Stay hydrated with plenty of water and your favourite trail snacks. Comfortable walking shoes. Also, bring a plastic bag to pick up any litter you may find along the way. It's a small gesture that gives back to this beautiful place and helps keep the trail unspoiled. Think of it as a way of saying thank you to the great outdoors for all the amazing scenery it shares with us. Weather To stay one step ahead, take advantage of the network of webcams scattered across Madeira. These handy cams give you a real-time peek at the weather conditions island-wide. A quick check before you head out can save you from a potentially wasted trip and help you find the perfect patch of sunshine for your adventure. https://www.netmadeira.com/webcams-madeira https://beyondmadeira.com/live-webcams/ PRO TIP: Always check trail conditions on official sources. My recommended sources are Windy and Mountain-forecast.com Suggestions for dinner To guarantee genuine recommendations, I do not accept commissions. Every place I suggest is based on my own positive personal experience. Sabor a fado restaurant At Travessa das Torres nº10, you'll discover a cosy place that you simply can't miss! Sabor a Fado is a restaurant where heart-warming music meets delicious Madeiran cuisine. This family-run fado house combines the soulful music of traditional Portuguese music with the delicious flavours of local gastronomy. From the moment you walk through the doors, you'll be greeted by the warm smiles of the Sousa family, who will be your perfect hosts for the evening. They don't just serve your table, they create an experience, sharing stories through songs and making you feel like part of their extended family. A Vista Savor the Flavors and Sights of Funchal. If you're looking for a dining experience that captures both the flavour and beauty of Madeira, A Vista in Funchal is the place to be. This restaurant offers tasty dishes paired with killer views that make every meal unforgettable. Overlooking the sparkling Atlantic and the charming rooftops of Funchal, A Vista is a feast for the eyes and the stomach. The menu is a creative blend of traditional Madeiran flavours with a modern twist. Akua Chef Júlio Pereira's Akua restaurant offers a vibrant dining experience that will delight all lovers of seafood and Mediterranean cuisine. At Akua, the culinary magic of the aquatic world takes centre stage, offering a sensory journey from the sea to the table. Each dish is meticulously crafted, showcasing both bold flavours and artistic presentation. Carvão Grill House is a dining experience you don't want to miss. The service is excellent and the food is absolutely incredible. Even if you don't usually finish your meals, you'll want to savour every bite here! The prices are quite reasonable, making it a must visit during your stay in Madeira. You won't be disappointed! We enjoyed the Wagyu beef which is cooked to perfection and bursting with flavour. Every bite was melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Abrigo do Pastor Just 15 kilometres from Funchal, Abrigo do Pastor is a charming spot for food lovers and explorers alike. This cosy, wood-panelled restaurant offers a welcoming retreat where you can enjoy the authentic flavours of the island. From hearty meat dishes to fresh seafood, the menu showcases the best of Madeiran cuisine using fresh, local ingredients. With the peaceful sounds of nature all around you, dining at Abrigo do Pastor is both an escape and a treat. It's the perfect place to enjoy great food, soak up the forest atmosphere and experience the warm hospitality for which Madeira is renowned. Adega do Pomar This charming restaurant embodies the spirit of Madeira, offering a dining experience that's both rustic and refreshingly authentic. Start your culinary journey with a plate of grilled lapas (limpets) or indulge in Bolo do Caco, a garlic bread that's as addictive as it is traditional. For the main event, Mendinha takes the central stage. Mendinha is a stew made from veal ribs slowly cooked the oven for at least 4-5 hours until tender, absorbing a rich blend of local ingredients. These include garlic, onions and a bouquet of fragrant herbs such as bay leaves and oregano, which add layers of aromatic complexity to the dish. A splash of Madeira wine adds a touch of sophistication, giving the sauce a unique hint of sweetness. Mendinha is typically served with rustic accompaniments such as crusty bread or boiled potatoes, which help to soak up the inviting sauce. It's a popular choice for festive occasions and family gatherings. Santo António - Situated in the picturesque hills of the Estreito de Câmara de Lobos, Santo Antonio is a popular culinary destination offering an authentic taste of Madeira. It is particularly famous for its exceptional espetada - many people, both locals and tourists, say it's the best on the island (I also love the espetada at O Polar).
