Madeira cycling tours & bike holidays

Madeira is a destination unlike anything else on the European cycling map. The combination of subtropical vegetation, volcanic cliffs plunging into the Atlantic, ancient laurisilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage landscape, and the warm hospitality of the Madeiran people creates a genuinely unique experience. The island's compact size means cycling routes are always within sight of the sea or the mountains, with remarkable variety from one day to the next: from the fishing village of Porto da Cruz to the natural swimming pools of Porto Moniz, the west coast forest to the glittering capital of Funchal.

Madeira enjoys a subtropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year, rarely falling below 16°C even in winter. The north of the island is cooler and wetter than the south; the high plateau at Paúl da Serra can be misty. Cycling is possible in all months, but May to October offers the most reliable sunshine on the coastal routes.

The terrain is mountainous throughout, with the highest peak, Pico Ruivo, reaching 1,862 metres. Cycling routes follow panoramic roads around the island's coastline at mid-altitude, with several extended descents. Bus transfers on the steepest ascents make the circuit achievable, but expect significant climbing on most riding days.