We start our tour by visiting Camacha, a rural and rustic village known for its Madeiran folklore and known worldwide for its basketry industry. Our next stop is Pico do Areeiro, the third highest peak on the island, with an altitude of 1818m providing fabulous 360′ views of the island. Rock formations can often be seen piercing through the clouds, creating the most stunning visuals and photo opportunities.
Next, we head to Ribeiro Frio (meaning cold river). Ribeiro Frio is a small village located in the heart of the Laurissilva forest. It is the largest surviving area of Laurel forest in the world and is believed to be 90% primary forest. In this site classified as World Natural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, we can enjoy a fantastic variety of plants and species in their habitats. We can also observe the interesting trout farm, made up (in the most natural way possible) by stone enclosures, and fresh water from the Levada, against the backdrop of a beautiful scenery of pure nature.
We continue our walk to Faial where we can see the imposing rock of Penha de Águia, which separates Faial from Porto da Cruz. With a long stop in the village of Santana, you will have plenty of time for lunch and also to see the world famous typical triangular thatched houses of Madeira, painted in cheerful primary colors.
Passing through Portela, on the way to Ponta de São Lourenço, located in the eastern part of the island, we can observe this magnificent landscape characterized by the fantastic combination of rocks, sea and nature. Our final stop is the larger city of Machico; the first area of the Island that Portuguese navigators found, at the time of the discoveries.
