Madeira

Part of Portugal

Madeira is a volcanic island in the Atlantic Ocean, belonging to Portugal. It is known for its steep cliffs, green mountains and mild climate, making it an interesting destination for cyclists. The island is located more than 700 kilometers from the Moroccan coast and has an area of approximately 740 square kilometers.

The landscape is rugged and varied. From the bustling capital Funchal to the quiet highlands and deep valleys, each region has its own character. Most roads are well maintained, but due to the mountainous terrain there are few flat stretches. This makes Madeira especially suitable for cyclists who enjoy long climbs and challenging descents.

The roads wind up high in the mountains from the coast. Peaks above 1800 meters are not uncommon. The climate is mild throughout the year, and the infrastructure is good, although some roads are steep and technically challenging. Routes such as the climb to Pico do Arieiro or the plateau of Paul da Serra offer beautiful views over varied terrain. Outside the capital Funchal, the roads are relatively quiet, and the particularly beautiful nature makes every ride worthwhile.

A cycling holiday in Madeira is different from trips to well-known cycling destinations like the Canary Islands or the Alps. The island offers a combination of challenging terrain, impressive nature and a mild climate, but without the mass tourism that you often see in other places. The island has a special character. The views are spectacular and vary from region to region: from rugged coastal paths to misty forests and barren heights.

In addition, the climate is fantastic. With temperatures between 15 and 25°C, Madeira is an ideal destination for long drives. In the mountains it can be cooler and the weather can change quickly, but rainstorms usually do not last long. This makes it attractive for anyone who wants to escape the cold winters elsewhere in Europe.

If you haven’t climbed much on a bike yet or aren’t really a climber, you might want to consider a different destination. There are few options for flat cycling. That’s fantastic for mountain bikers, but as a beginner, cycling in the mountains of Madeira can be just too strenuous.

Madeira is a challenging but spectacular cycling destination, with varied landscapes and routes that you won’t find anywhere else. Each ride brings impressive views, long climbs, and fast descents. The island is compact but offers a wide variety of terrain and elevation changes.

On the southern coast, around Funchal and Câmara de Lobos, the most accessible cycling routes are located. The roads here are generally in good condition, the climate is stable, and there are plenty of facilities to be found. The climb to Pico do Arieiro (1,818m) is one of the most famous on the island. The climb starts quite gradually, but the final kilometers are steep and challenging. Another interesting route is the ride to Eira do Serrado, overlooking the Curral das Freiras valley.

The north coast, with villages like São Vicente and Seixal, feels more untamed. Here you’ll find long climbs through green valleys, sometimes with mist or humid conditions. The roads are generally good, but can be narrow and steep. The coastal road between Porto Moniz and São Vicente is beautiful. And don’t think you can cycle along the coast without encountering some steep climbs; here too you’ll find numerous steep ascents, but with stunning ocean views!

Paul da Serra plateau (at 1400 m) is one of the few places on Madeira where you can ride long stretches at a constant pace. The road over the plateau is wide and relatively flat, but be prepared: the wind can play a big role here. It is the ideal route to recover after your climb from the coast, before descending again.

Madeira has a mild subtropical climate with relatively stable temperatures throughout the year. The influence of the Atlantic Ocean ensures that it never gets extremely hot or cold. The weather can vary by region: the southern side is generally drier and sunnier, while the north and mountainous interior often experience precipitation and varying conditions.

Spring (March – May)

In spring, temperatures on Madeira average between 16°C and 22°C. This is a pleasant period for cycling, with plenty of flowering vegetation along the routes. On the southern side of the island, around Funchal, it is often sunny, while the north side and the mountains can often have fog and rain. There are an average of 7 to 10 rainy days per month, but the storms are usually short-lived.

Summer (June – August)

The summers in Madeira are warm, but rarely extremely hot. Temperatures average between 20°C and 26°C, although it can sometimes feel a little warmer in Funchal and at lower altitudes. This is the driest period of the year, especially on the south coast, with an average of 2 to 5 rainy days per month. In the mountains it is cooler, and due to the differences in altitude, weather changes can occur quickly.

Autumn (September – November)

Temperatures remain pleasant in autumn, with averages between 18°C and 25°C in September and gradual cooling towards November. This is a good time to cycle, as the crowds of the high season subside and nature remains green. The chance of precipitation increases, especially in October and November, with 8 to 12 rainy days per month. In higher altitudes, the fog can be more persistent.

Winter (December – February)

Winters in Madeira are mild along the coast, with temperatures between 14°C and 20°C. In the mountains, it can get considerably colder. Precipitation is more common in winter, with 10 to 15 rainy days per month, especially in the north and the interior. Still, there are plenty of dry and sunny days left for cycling, especially on the southern side of the island.

Travel tips

• Best destination: Funchal is a great destination if you like staying in (or near) a city. Funchal is the capital of Madeira. There are many facilities here, such as bike rental companies and bike repair shops, but also many nice accommodations. From here you can explore many beautiful routes, such as the popular climb to Pico do Arieiro (about 17 kilometers to the top). The beautiful plateau Paul da Serra is also accessible via a beautiful climb. However, the plateau and the surrounding climbs are even more accessible from Ponta do Sol. This is one of the sunniest places in Madeira. Furthermore, it is a bit quieter on the roads here than in Funchal.
• Traffic information: the roads are narrow and often steep, with many curves. Generally speaking, the roads are well maintained, especially along the southeastern coast, where the larger towns are located. On the northern side of the mountains, the landscape is more humid. Be prepared to descend on wet and perhaps slippery roads. During the summer season, the roads can be busy, but outside the tourist season it is much quieter, especially in the mountains.
• Culinary: Of course, you should try a glass of Poncha in Madeira, the traditional drink made from aguardente de cana (rum-flavoured brandy), honey and citrus fruits. In addition, Madeira is known for its unique cuisine. Typical dishes include Espetada Madeirense, skewered beef cooked over wood fire, and Bolo do Caco, a flatbread with garlic butter that is often served as a side dish. Along the coast, you can enjoy fresh fish such as Espada com Banana (black cod with banana), a surprising but popular combination. Sweet tooths can’t resist Queijada da Madeira, a small custard tart, or tropical fruits such as passion fruit and custard apple, which can be found everywhere here.

When are you leaving?

How do you get there?

• Flying: Fly to Madeira (Funchal). Bring your own bike; then book a place for your bike box in time.