Madeira Walking Festival Holidays

Posted by Donna Dailey Jan 30, 2008

I'm back from Madeira, the Portuguese island in the Atlantic Ocean. I was enjoying the first Madeira Walking Festival, wondering why one of the best destinations for walking holidays in the world hasn't had a Walking Festival before. The answer is simple – no-one thought of it.

I had no idea what to expect myself, never having been to Madeira or to a Walking Festival. This one takes place over five days in January, and visitors have a choice of four walks each day, ranging from a few kilometres to about 14 kilometres. You can choose your walk according to your interests or your walking ability, and booking through the Festival is cheaper than organising them for yourself. You're also guaranteed a professional guide, to tell you about the history and the flora and fauna.

What I hadn't expected to be included in the price was a Welcome Reception and a Farewell Dinner. We were whisked from the airport straight to the reception, and got to meet some of our fellow walkers and also enjoy some really tasty nibbles. The Farewell Dinner was held in the São Tiago Fort in the Old Town of Funchal, and I was amazed by the quality of the food and the folk dancing and music that was also provided. What a bonus!

As for the walks, they were superb. There were mountain walks, coastal walks, and the unique Madeira levadas. These water channels run through the mountains, with narrow paths alongside for the workers to maintain them. I was both exhilarated and scared at times, but it's an experience I'll never forget.

The 2009 Madeira Walking Festival is being held from January 13-17. For further details when they are known, and to book, visit the Madeira Walking Festival website.

*