Sunny Algarve and Blooming Madeira
Group trip to the Algarve and Madeira, November 26–December 8. Nature, hikes, and excursions with accommodation in hotels.
In Portugal, you can visit the westernmost point of the European mainland. But Portugal extends even farther west, already in the Atlantic Ocean: the ocean surrounds archipelagos belonging to the country.
Portugal itself is not very large, but thanks to its geographical location, it is remarkably diverse in terms of landscapes and climate.
Winter is an especially pleasant time to travel through the southern part of the country, where summers can be very hot. It was here, in the south, that events took place during the Middle Ages that influenced world history. Here, at the edge of the mainland, the ocean creates breathtaking landscapes. At this time of year, there are relatively few tourists, allowing you to fully enjoy the beauty and atmosphere of these places.
We will begin our journey in the Algarve region and then continue along the western coast to Lisbon. After that, we will fly to the remarkable island of Madeira.
Madeira is often called the island of eternal spring. It has a mild and comfortable climate, with an average year-round temperature of around 24°C. The island is lush with greenery and flowers throughout the year.
The name “Madeira” comes from the Portuguese word for “forest.” This is how the first colonizers saw the island in the Middle Ages—as a land covered with dense forests. The Romans called it the “Purple Island” because they were interested in the purple dye obtained from mollusks along the coast.
Over time, there were fewer forests, as well as fewer mollusks used to make the dye. But Madeira has preserved its greatest treasure—its enchanting nature and diverse landscapes.
At this time of year, the island has relatively few visitors, as most tourists arrive at the end of December for the holiday celebrations. In early December, we will be able to walk along the most beautiful trails without crowds and enjoy leisurely strolls through Funchal, decorated for Christmas and New Year.
Itinerary
November 26
Evening flight from Tel Aviv to Lisbon.
Overnight at a hotel near the airport.
November 27
After breakfast, we will travel to southern Portugal, to the Algarve region.
Along the way, we will make several stops: visit the oldest cork oak, learn about cork production, see the ruins of Cola Fortress, admire the Mira River valley, and stroll through distinctive villages.
We will begin exploring the Algarve in Faro, the regional capital. We will walk through this city of fascinating history and architecture, learn about the history of its Jewish community, and visit the ossuary chapel in the Carmelite church.
Overnight in Silves.
November 28
After breakfast, we will set out on a coastal hike along one of the Algarve’s most beautiful trails—the Benagil Trail. The route is 7 km long, with little elevation gain.
We will continue exploring Silves, which was the regional capital during the Muslim period. We will visit the fortress and stroll through its picturesque streets.
Before sunset, we will pass by loquat and orange plantations, breathing in the scent of the blossoms, and climb a hill with an ancient windmill.
Overnight in Silves.
November 29
After breakfast, we will travel to Lagos, the city from which expeditions led by Prince Henry the Navigator set out during the Age of Discoveries.
We will walk along the scenic coastline on the Ponta da Piedade trail (5 km, with little elevation gain).
We will visit Sagres Fortress, believed to have been Henry’s “school.”
At sunset, we will travel to Cape St. Vincent. We will walk approximately 3 km along majestic cliffs and watch the sun set beside the legendary lighthouse.
Overnight in Lagos.
November 30
After breakfast, a tour of Lagos. We will stroll through the old streets, visit the harbor, and see the “Slave Market” museum.
We will then set out to explore the western coast of the Iberian Peninsula.
We will stop in the photogenic town of Zambujeira do Mar, stroll through its streets and along its picturesque cliffs (approximately 4 km).
Next, we will visit Sardão Point and walk along a trail beside the ocean (approximately 3 km).
Overnight in Setúbal.
December 1
After breakfast, a tour of Setúbal.
We will stroll through the historic center and enjoy views of the bay and islands. We will visit the Church of the Order of Jesus, built in the Manueline style, and the town market.
Daytime flight to Madeira.
Dinner at a restaurant with traditional fado music.
Overnight in Funchal.
December 2
After breakfast, a tour of Funchal with a local guide.
We will walk through the island’s capital and visit the Gothic cathedral, a market with exotic fruits, and the fish market. We will taste fruits while hearing the café owner’s stories and learn about poncha, a traditional drink. We will stroll along Painted Doors Street and have lunch at a traditional restaurant.
We will take the cable car up to the Monte Tropical Garden, where the guide will tell us about the island’s flora.
Overnight in Funchal.
December 3
After breakfast at the hotel, we will travel to the Valley of the Nuns.
We will visit the Eira do Serrado viewpoint and descend along a trail to the village of Curral das Freiras (4 km).
We will stroll through the village and taste chestnut dishes.
In the afternoon, a hike along the Moinho and Nova levadas (9 km).
Dinner in the town of Ponta do Sol, followed by sunset watching.
Overnight in Funchal.
December 4
A walk through the Ponta de São Lourenço nature reserve (4 km, with 200 m of elevation gain).
A boat trip along the coast.
Lunch and a walk through Machico, Madeira’s first capital.
An easy hike along the Levada dos Maroços (3–5 km).
Overnight in Funchal.
December 5
After breakfast at the hotel, we will travel to Fanal Forest.
A walk through the ancient laurel forest (approximately 4 km).
Viewpoints overlooking the northern coast.
Visit to Porto Moniz, where we will see its natural volcanic pools and, if desired, go swimming.
Lunch in São Jorge and a walk along the shore.
Visit to Santana, known for its traditional thatched-roof houses.
Overnight in Santana.
December 6
After breakfast at the hotel, we will climb to the island’s highest peak, Pico Ruivo (7 km, with 270 m of elevation gain).
In the afternoon, a hike along the Levada do Rei (11 km).
Overnight in Santana.
December 7
After breakfast at the hotel, a walk along the Balcões levada.
Visit to Cabo Girão cliff.
Lunch in the fishing village of Câmara de Lobos and a walk through the village.
Evening flight to Lisbon.
Overnight in Lisbon.
December 8
After breakfast at the hotel, a walking tour of Lisbon with a local guide.
Free time.
Night flight to Tel Aviv.
Cost
€2,500
Small group of up to 8 people
Included
- 12 nights in 3–4-star hotels with breakfast
- Transportation
- Local guide services
- Dinner in Funchal with traditional music
- Tastings during the Funchal tour
- Cable-car ride and entrance to Monte Garden
- Admission tickets
- Boat trip in the Ponta de São Lourenço nature reserve
- Organizer’s assistance
Not included
- Flights
- Insurance
- Lunches and dinners
Who this trip is suitable for
- People who love nature
- Active travelers (the level of exertion can be reduced if desired)
I will be happy to answer any questions on WhatsApp:
+972-52-836-6387
Olga
Photos and reviews from the previous trip
Weekly events digest
The week's best events, in your inbox — free.
