Madeira, also known as the “island of eternal spring” due to its subtropical climate, is a popular destination for family vacations and romantic getaways but it also has a lot to offer for solo travelers. It doesn’t matter if you look for land adventures, water activities or extraordinary culinary experiences, Madeira is the perfect choice for your island getaway as a solo traveler.
The travel experts at cozycozy prepared a detailed guide for you to help in planning your adventure in Madeira.
Why Madeira is a Perfect Choice for Solo Travelers
As a solo traveler, safety is imperative when choosing a travel destination. As Madeira has low crime rates, it is an ideal and safe choice for your solo adventures. Besides not having to worry about pickpockets, you can also be sure that communication and getting along with locals will not be a problem. In Madeira, English is widely spoken and locals are known to be very friendly and helpful. You will have the chance to experience local culture by spending time with them.
You will also have the opportunity to meet other like-minded adventurers, for example by staying in a hostel which is also a great way to cut down on expenses while travelling. But of course, if you want more comfort and pampering, there’s a wide range of accommodation in Madeira to choose from. Cozycozy, the comprehensive accommodation comparator will make it easy to find your perfect stay in Madeira, whether you are looking for a hostel, a vacation rental or an upscale hotel.
Another advantage of going to Madeira is the accessible public transport system so you can save money by opting for public transport over renting a car.
Activities You Shouldn’t Miss as a Solo Traveler
Hiking along Madeira’s “levadas” and trails is a must-do activity when visiting the island. Levadas are man-made irrigation channels that were created to carry water through the island from its north-west side to the south-east part. One of the well-known levadas is Levada do Caldeirão Verde. This moderately difficult trail will lead you through tunnels carved in rocks and along an amazing waterfall at the Caldeirão Verde lake.
Another famous trail is the Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo hike, a more challenging but equally breathtaking adventure. Pico do Arieiro is the third highest peak in Madeira and Pico Ruivo is the highest on the island. It leads the hikers through tunnels, steep staircases and narrow trails.
For urban adventures, solo travellers shouldn’t miss Funchal. A must-visit place is Mercado dos Lavradores, a farmers’ market that has been operating since 1940. The abundance of local produce and lively atmosphere captivates every visitor.
Another unforgettable experience is travelling by the Funchal Cable Car, a gondola lift that transports people from the lower section of Funchal to Monte. It offers a breathtaking view of the city, the sea and the bright sky all at once.
But you shouldn’t spend all of your time exploring on land when the sea offers so many exciting experiences as well. Dolphin and whale watching boat tours are a must when visiting Madeira. On top of spotting different species of dolphins and whales you can also catch a glimpse of turtles and Mediterranean monk seals. Boat tours are also a great way to meet other travellers.
If you are the more adventurous type, you should definitely take advantage of the adrenaline-fuelled experiences Madeira has to offer: coasteering, canyoning and snorkeling make for unforgettable memories.
Hidden Spots and Lesser Known Activities
For a unique experience in Madeira, you should visit Santana. The colourful triangular-shaped houses found here are part of the island’s unique cultural heritage and definitely worth visiting.
Due to Madeira’s proximity to the sea, its year-round mild climate, fertile soil and sun exposure, the island is an ideal place to grow bananas. It’s such a unique experience to take part in a banana farm tour to learn about how bananas are produced.
Another exciting activity is taking a cooking class to learn how to make Madeiran Espetada or joining a Poncha workshop and bar hopping tour so you can learn how to make the signature drink of Madeira and meet other solo travellers on a great night out.
Making Connections While Solo Traveling
Although travelling alone to a breathtaking island like Madeira is a chance for introspection and enjoying some alone time, meeting new people can also enrich your experience.
Among the best opportunities to make connections are group hikes or boat tours where you can bond with others while adventuring together. Another great option is visiting lively bars to exchange travel stories with others over a glass of poncha or Madeira wine. If you are looking for a more serene environment to get to know new people, you should opt for a yoga class instead.
Madeira is the perfect destination for solo travel and offers countless opportunities for visitors to make memories that last a lifetime while meeting new people or spending quality time alone. Consider Madeira for your next solo trip to explore all that this island has to offer at your own pace.
