The Fanal Forest by Feeling Madeira

If you’re looking to experience Madeira beyond its famous coastlines and vibrant city life, a trip into the Fanal Forest promises a truly captivating adventure. This tour, offered by Feeling Madeira, takes you into the heart of Madeira’s lush Laurissilva, a UNESCO World Heritage site. What makes it special? The breathtaking scenery, the sense of untouched wilderness, and the chance to learn about the island’s native flora and fauna— all for just $40.

We love that this experience combines scenic beauty with a touch of adventure, offering both relaxing views and a chance to stretch your legs through authentic, less-trodden paths. The knowledgeable guides, the serenity of the forest, and the opportunity to explore beyond the typical tourist spots are definite highlights. The only thing to consider is that the tour requires a moderate fitness level, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with walking on uneven terrain.

This tour is perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone eager to see Madeira’s true wilderness. If you’re after a meaningful, scenic outing that offers excellent value and genuine natural beauty, this experience is right up your alley.

Good To Know

• Beautiful Scenery: Experience stunning views of Madeira’s lush landscape and tiny villages.
• Native Flora & Fauna: See iconic species like laurel, heather, and Chaffinches in their natural habitat.
• Authentic Experience: Walk through an almost untouched part of the island, unchanged for centuries.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Friendly guides with great explanations enhance the walk.
• Flexible Exploration: Keep going beyond the levada, discovering hidden corners of the forest.
• Value for Money: For just $40, this 7-hour tour offers a deep connection with Madeira’s natural beauty.

Introduction: Why This Tour Stands Out

While many visitors to Madeira focus on the more popular coastal sights, this Fanal Forest tour offers a different kind of magic. It’s perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and breathe in the pure, green air of the island’s ancient woodland.

What I love about this experience is how it combines stunning vistas, intimate encounters with native plants, and fun, engaging guides. The tour is around 7 hours long, including a pickup from major hotels, making it a convenient full-day escape. Plus, with a price of $40, it offers genuine value for an immersive nature walk.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour has a maximum of 16 travelers, which keeps it intimate and allows for personalized attention. This is ideal if you prefer small groups over large, tour-bus style excursions. If you’re comfortable walking on uneven terrain and appreciate nature’s quieter corners, this tour is a perfect fit.

Detailed Breakdown of the Fanal Forest Tour

Pickup & Meeting Points

Feeling Madeira offers convenient pickup from key locations around Funchal, including downtown hotels, Câmara de Lobos, Ribeira Brava, Ponta do Sol, and Calheta. This means you won’t need to worry about transportation—simply relax and enjoy the scenic drive to the forest. The meeting time is 9:00 AM, which gets you into the forest during the cooler, often more comfortable part of the day.

First Stop: Posto Florestal Fanal

Your journey begins at Posto Florestal Fanal, a legendary starting point for exploring Madeira’s Laurissilva. Here, the trail first winds through a landscape filled with endemic vegetation, plants that have evolved uniquely to Madeira’s environment.

The reviews highlight how the smell of eucalyptus during the drive adds to the sensory experience—”refreshing” and invigorating. The initial part of the walk involves exploring a mixture of native and introduced species, offering a glimpse of how the island’s ecosystems have evolved since its discovery over 500 years ago.

The Heart of the Forest

As you venture deeper, the trail cuts into the interior of Madeira, where the landscape remains remarkably unchanged from the time before European explorers arrived. This part of the walk is where you’ll encounter native flora, such as the iconic laurel trees, which give the forest its UNESCO status. Heather and other endemic plants fill the air with their scent, and the soundscape is alive with the calls of native birds like the chaffinch.

A reviewer shared how guides like João make the experience enlightening with their stories and explanations. They highlight how the forest is still full of joy, even after centuries of human presence—“explore and discover” is the key message here.

Surprising Discoveries Beyond the Levadas

One of the most praised aspects is not to stop when the levada seems to end. Instead, let your curiosity lead you onward, exploring parts of the forest rarely seen by casual visitors. This is where the true magic happens: serenity and untouched beauty, quiet corners filled with moss, ferns, and a symphony of bird sounds.

Duration & Pace

The entire experience lasts around 4 hours of actual walking, but the full tour is about 7 hours with transportation, breaks, and time to soak in the scenery. The pace is moderate, making it accessible for most travelers with a decent level of fitness. The guides are attentive and ensure everyone stays comfortable, but some uneven terrain might require a steady step.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Authentic and Uncrowded Environment

Unlike many other tours that stick to well-trodden paths, Feeling Madeira’s walk takes you into less-visited patches of the forest. That means fewer crowds and more opportunities to connect with nature. The reviews emphasize this, with one praising the “serenity” and “joy” the forest still holds.

Expert Guides

The guides, such as João mentioned by a reviewer, aren’t just walking encyclopedias—they’re passionate storytellers who make the experience engaging and fun. Their stories about the local flora and fauna, and their recommendations, make the walk more meaningful.

Impressive Views and Unique Ecosystem

You’ll love the panoramic views of the village from various points on the trail, plus the chance to see Madeira’s native plants and birds up close. As one reviewer pointed out, “the smell of eucalyptus trees” added a refreshing touch, enhancing the sensory journey.

Value for Money

At $40, this is a budget-friendly way to experience Madeira’s natural wonderland. The inclusion of hotel pickups and small group size adds to the overall value, making it a hassle-free and intimate adventure.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Wear comfortable walking shoes; terrain can be uneven.
• Bring layers: mornings can be cool, but the forest may warm up later.
• A small backpack with water, snacks, and sunscreen is recommended.
• Be prepared for some muddy patches, especially if it rained recently.
• The tour caters to those with moderate physical fitness; if you’re comfortable walking on natural trails, you’ll enjoy this.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits adventurous travelers, nature lovers, and those looking to avoid busy tourist spots. If you’re keen on seeing Madeira’s native flora and fauna and don’t mind a bit of walking, this tour offers excellent value and authentic natural beauty. It’s also perfect for small groups seeking a personalized experience.

The Sum Up

In essence, the Fanal Forest tour by Feeling Madeira offers a memorable escape into one of Madeira’s most enchanting and untouched environments. With stunning vistas, native plants, and knowledgeable guides, it’s a fantastic way to spend a day immersed in nature. It’s well-suited for those who appreciate tranquility, scenic beauty, and authentic experiences, all at an affordable price.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply someone eager to enjoy Madeira’s lush landscapes, this tour delivers a genuine connection to the island’s natural heritage. The peacefulness of the forest, combined with the chance to see native flora and fauna, makes this one of the most rewarding outdoor activities you can do in Madeira.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, Feeling Madeira offers pickup from major hotels in Funchal and other key locations like Câmara de Lobos, Ribeira Brava, Ponta do Sol, and Calheta.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts about 7 hours, including transportation, breaks, and the walk itself.

What is the walking pace like?
The walk is moderate, suitable for those with average fitness levels. Expect uneven terrain, so comfortable walking shoes are important.

Can children join the tour?
While the tour is suitable for most, children should be comfortable walking on natural trails and have moderate fitness.

What should I bring?
Comfortable footwear, layers for changing weather, water, snacks, and sunscreen are recommended.

Are there any restrictions or special considerations?
Service animals are allowed. The tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness; very young children or those with mobility issues may find the terrain challenging.

What makes this tour different from others?
It’s a small-group experience that takes you deeper into Madeira’s lesser-visited forests, with guides sharing stories and insights that truly enrich the walk.

Is the tour refundable if I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Embark on this journey and discover the quiet, majestic beauty of Fanal Forest—an experience that offers a genuine taste of Madeira’s wild heart.