Just Epic! 8 Unexpected Things to Do In Madeira
Madeira isn’t just about scenic drives and coastal walks. For thrill-seekers, the island delivers pure adrenaline between ocean and mountain. Test your nerve paragliding above the Atlantic or leap into hidden lagoons during a canyoning tour, for example! If looking for something epic but less sporty, enjoy the clear sky star-gazing or the vintage car tours. Here are 8 unexpected things to do in Madeira:
Paragliding in Madeira.
Atlantic Swing
This is not just unexpected in Madeira. It’s unexpected anywhere: a giant 20 metre swing, 250 meters over a dramatic cliffside, offering you a scenic view… and one hell of a thrill ride at the same time. Yes, it’s real, and it’s in Porto Moniz. You can book your “flight” online and swing the swing as much as you want – up to 110 km/h, if your heart is strong enough to handle that much adrenaline. Besides the swing, there’s also a zipline over Ribeira da Janela, which is easy-breezy if you can handle that swing.
You can also fit the Atlantic Swing into your North shore visit. If you’ve bought our One Week in Madeira guide, you know we propose spending your third day on the island exploring the Cabo Girão skywalk, Ponta do Sol, Paul da Serra and Fanal, Seixal, Porto Moniz and Serra d’Água. This 8 hour tour includes all of that plus the swing, so it’s the perfect way to cover a lot of ground and have an adrenaline rush, all without having to rent a car.
Stargazing in Madeira
When you think of Madeira, what comes to mind? The ocean, the levadas, the mountains, maybe the tropical fruits. But probably not stargazing. However, in the highlands of Madeira, away from the city lights, you have the opportunity to explore stars and constellations far beyond what regular life allows. While you can do this yourself, you can also book a Friday night stargazing tour with telescopes and binoculars, guided by astronomers.
Canyoning
Madeira does not have any rivers, so canyoning may sound unexpected. However, the strong water streams coming down the steep slopes makes for a perfect canyoning set up. In my opinion, this is one of the best ways to go off the beaten path and discover landscapes that haven’t been disturbed by humans. These guys have excellent reviews and canyoning adventures even for beginners. The pick-up in Funchal or Câmara de Lobos is included, so you don’t need to worry about the logistics.
Vintage Car Tours
Before I started living in Madeira, I had no idea vintage cars were a thing over here. But with several yearly shows dedicated to vintage cars (I will never forget seeing a pink, shiny 1950s limousine parked at the promenade. For a moment, I thought Elvis was alive!), there’s no denying and what’s old it’s new again. Several companies offer tours through the Promenade and the village of Monte on a classic car, or even a stroll to Cabo Girão and poncha tasting on Beetle.
Motocross
If vintage cars aren’t up your alley, don’t worry. You can motocross atop the mountains of Madeira, above the clouds and surrounded by trees. Look up ‘Pista de Motocross das Carreiras’ or hire a service like Motor Gadget’s to have an off-road experience and explore the island in a different way.
Sunset Boat Trip
Madeira is not lacking impressive viewpoints. Yet, if you ask me, the best viewpoint is the sea itself, from which you can see the whole island rise before your eyes. The sea promenades look more colorful, the mountains look more imposing, and for a moment you may ask yourself if you found the lost continent of Atlantida. So, if you get the chance, book yourself a sunset trip with live music, swim under Cabo Girão, and end your day with style.
Parasailing
When you’re on an island, sea activities can’t be completely unexpected. But be honest: have you ever gone parasailing? The ‘flight’ lasts 10 to 15 minutes, and while it may not be as thrilling as landing in Madeira, I’m sure it’s an unforgettable experience to share as a family, a couple or a group of friends. To my knowledge, there’s only one place in Madeira where you can do this, Madeira Watersports near Ilhéu do Gorgulho, so it’s a perfect activity in the Lido area.
Paragliding
Before the swing, paragliding over Madalena do Mar, was one the most thrill-seeking adventures in Madeira. Jumping from a quaint spot in Arco da Calheta, you’ll lift off, fly for something like 20 minutes with an experienced pilot, and enjoy one of the best views over the South coast of Madeira. Now, here’s the trick: you can’t actually book ahead, because these guys take safety so seriously that they decide the flights and the weight limit on the day, according to the wind.
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