Madeira is a stunning island with breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and plenty of opportunities for adventure. With your preferences in mind, here’s a delightful 3-day itinerary that will take you off the beaten path, include some hiking, and allow you to enjoy the unique experience of glamping at dome tents in Calheta. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Calheta

Morning:

• Arrival in Madeira: Pick up your rental car at the airport and head towards Calheta. The drive is about 40 minutes and offers some beautiful coastal views.
• Check-in at your Glamping Dome Tent: Settle into your cozy dome tent at the Calheta Glamping. Enjoy the unique experience of staying in a dome surrounded by nature!

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a Local Eatery: Head to a nearby family-run restaurant for a taste of traditional Madeiran cuisine. Try the “Espetada” (beef skewers) or “Bacalhau” (cod).
• Visit Calheta Beach: After lunch, take a stroll along Calheta Beach. It’s a lovely spot to relax and soak up the sun.

Evening:

• Sunset Hike: Take a short hike along the coastal path towards the viewpoint at “Praia da Calheta.” The views of the sunset over the Atlantic are simply magical.
• Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Calheta, perhaps trying some fresh seafood.

Day 2: Hiking and Discovering the North Coast

Morning:

• Breakfast at the Dome: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your glamping site.
• Drive to Levada do Caldeirão Verde: Head to the north side of the island (about a 1-hour drive) to the starting point of the Levada do Caldeirão Verde hike. This is a relatively easy hike (about 4 hours round trip) that takes you through lush forests and stunning waterfalls.

Afternoon:

• Picnic Lunch: Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst nature during your hike. There are plenty of scenic spots along the way.
• Explore Santana: After your hike, drive to the charming village of Santana, known for its traditional A-framed houses. Take a stroll through the village and maybe grab a coffee at a local café.

Evening:

• Dinner in Santana: Enjoy dinner at a family-run restaurant in Santana, where you can try local dishes like “Bolo do Caco” (Madeiran bread) and “Prego” (steak sandwich).
• Return to Calheta: Drive back to your glamping site and relax under the stars.

Day 3: West Coast Adventure and Departure

Morning:

• Breakfast and Check-out: Enjoy breakfast at your dome and check out of your glamping site.
• Drive to Ponta do Pargo: Head to the westernmost point of Madeira, Ponta do Pargo (about a 30-minute drive). Visit the lighthouse and take in the dramatic coastal views.

Afternoon:

• Hike to Levada Nova: After exploring Ponta do Pargo, embark on the Levada Nova hike. This trail offers stunning views of the cliffs and valleys. It’s a moderate hike, so be prepared for some ups and downs!
• Lunch in Paul do Mar: After your hike, stop in the quaint fishing village of Paul do Mar for lunch. Enjoy fresh fish dishes at a local eatery.

Evening:

• Return to Funchal: Make your way back to Funchal (about a 1-hour drive) for some last-minute sightseeing or shopping. If time allows, visit the Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers' Market) for some local produce and souvenirs.
• Departure: Depending on your flight time, you may need to head to the airport. If you have a bit of time, grab a final coffee or pastel de nata before you go!

Tips:

• Make sure to pack good hiking shoes, a reusable water bottle, and a camera to capture the stunning views!
• Always check the weather before heading out on hikes, as conditions can change quickly in Madeira.

I hope this itinerary helps you have an unforgettable adventure in Madeira! Enjoy your trip! 🌄✨