Madeira
7 day holiday - Monday 25th January 2027
Highlights...
- Funchal Cable Car & Monte Toboggan Ride
- Coastal Cruise
- Folklore Dinner & Dance Show
Madeira's warmth goes beyond its climate. This volcanic Portuguese island, set in the Atlantic off the coast of North Africa and often called the 'Hawaii of Europe', is one of two inhabited islands in its archipelago. Its cobbled streets, ancient forests and clifftop villages hold stories waiting to be told. A haven for nature lovers and garden enthusiasts, Madeira is filled with bright, colourful flowers and lush greenery, while its mountainous topography offers dramatic clifftop views. Volcanic black-sand, pebble and golden beaches fringe azure waters, home to a variety of dolphins and whales. The island is also renowned for exotic fruits, from passion fruit and custard apples to the unique banana-pineapple hybrid 'anana'. Every corner reveals a fascinating fact, from one of the steepest cable car rides in the world to the ancient Laurisilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back 20 million years. Portuguese explorers settled here in the 15th century and began farming the land, leaving behind buildings that still stand today, some of which we will visit.
Our journey begins in the capital, Funchal, named after wild fennel when the island was first discovered and celebrated today for its vibrant street markets and friendly atmosphere. From there, our carefully planned excursions lead us to witness the delicate artistry of traditional Madeiran embroidery and uncover the story behind the iconic triangular Santana Houses. We will enjoy a traditional Madeira wine tasting and lunch at a private family estate, learn about the island's sugar cane and rum-making heritage, and take to the water in search of marine life in its natural habitat, before raising a glass to a truly magnificent Madeira with Cultural Breaks.
NEXT - by Savoy Signature Hotels ★ ★ ★ ★
A favourite hotel of Cultural Breaks Members, we are delighted to return to the 4-star ‘NEXT – by Savoy Signature’ in Funchal. Ideally located overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this stylish contemporary hotel offers comfortable, air-conditioned rooms, many with balconies and sea or city views. The hotel offers accessible facilities, with walk-in showers available on request. Each morning, guests can enjoy a varied breakfast buffet. The hotel features two outdoor swimming pools, including a rooftop pool reserved exclusively for adults, offering wonderful views over the Atlantic, and a second outdoor pool located beside the sea. There is also a rooftop terrace and adults-only rooftop bar, as well as a restaurant, bar, sauna and fitness facilities. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout, and the location provides easy access to Funchal’s marina, Old Town and local attractions. Your package also includes a 3-course meal with 2 glasses of wine, beer or soft drink every evening.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Monday 25th January
Your Madeira adventure begins with a convenient door-to-door car transfer to London Gatwick Airport, where you will be met by your Tour Managers, who will accompany you throughout the holiday. After helping you check in, your Tour Managers will guide you through Fast Track security. Once onboard, we will have a light lunch during the flight to Madeira. On arrival at Funchal Airport, we will be met by our private coach and transferred to our hotel, where we will settle in before enjoying our welcome group dinner with fellow Cultural Breaks Members.
Day 2 - Tuesday 26th January
We meet our Guide for an introduction to Funchal, the charming capital city with its iconic red-roofed buildings. Leading us at a gentle pace, we explore the Old Town and local points of interest, from the Funchal Cathedral, dating back to the 15th century, to Mercado dos Lavradores, a colourful farmers market. Please note that the Old Town's cobbled streets can be uneven underfoot, so comfortable, supportive footwear is recommended. During our tour, we indulge in a traditional Madeiran lunch in Funchal's Old Town. After lunch, we embark on a traditional Madeiran embroidery experience, discovering the skill and artistry behind this treasured local craft. Enjoy a fascinating demonstration before having time to browse and purchase authentic Madeiran embroidery.
Day 3 – Wednesday 27th January
Take a guided journey to the West and North of Madeira, offering an insight into the island’s history, traditions and wine heritage. Travelling through dramatic coastal scenery and picturesque villages, we make our way to a private family estate for lunch accompanied by a tasting of traditional Madeira wine. Wine has been produced in Madeira since the 15th century, with the island’s fortified wines becoming highly prized through their ability to withstand long sea voyages. This relaxed and authentic experience offers a chance to discover these centuries-old traditions while enjoying the beautiful rural surroundings. Cheers!
Day 4 – Thursday 28th January
The ultimate Madeira highlights day! Start with a ride on the Funchal Cable Car, ascending from the coast to the village of Monte, with panoramic views across Funchal and the surrounding landscape. From Monte, experience the famous Toboggan ride, a tradition dating back to the 19th century, when wicker sledges weaved of eucalyptus wood were used as a means of transport. Following the descent, we continue to Monte Palace Tropical Garden, one of Madeira's most celebrated attractions. Set high above Funchal, the gardens feature exotic plants from around the world, tranquil lakes, oriental-inspired landscapes and impressive works of art. Following lunch, there will time to explore this remarkable setting whilst taking in spectacular views across Funchal and the Atlantic Ocean.
Day 5 - Friday 29th January
Journey into Madeira's mountainous interior and along the dramatic north coast to Santana, where distinctive thatched houses reveal the island's vernacular architecture and rural way of life. After a self-guided visit, continue along the coast, pausing at scenic viewpoints to admire the volcanic landscape and Atlantic panorama. A rum masterclass introduces Madeira's centuries-old sugar cane industry and the traditional production of aguardente de cana, the island's distinctive spirit. After lunch at Quinta do Furão, visit the Whale Museum in Caniçal, exploring Madeira's whaling past alongside exhibitions on cetacean biology, marine ecology and conservation. This evening, enjoy the 'Típica Lagar' Folklore Dinner & Dance Show, celebrating Madeira's traditional music and dances.
Day 6 - Saturday 30th January
Savour a serene morning aboard a boat excursion, as we glide across crystal waters surrounded by Madeira’s vibrant coastline. Keep watch for the island’s fascinating marine life! Our expert Tour Guide will highlight notable points of interest as we cruise, while a light lunch is served on board. Returning to the hotel in the early afternoon, enjoy time to unwind, explore at your leisure or pack for the return journey home. Later on, we come together for our Farewell Dinner at the hotel, the perfect way to celebrate our Madeira adventure.
Day 7 - Sunday 31st January
Following breakfast, porters collect your luggage as your Tour Managers assist with check-out. We board the coach to Funchal Airport, with lunch served onboard the return flight to London Gatwick. On arrival, your Tour Managers will assist you at baggage reclaim, before your door-to-door cars complete the journey home. Here's to old friends, new memories, and the next Cultural Breaks adventure waiting for you!

EXTRA STEPS
This holiday requires requires the ability for guests to walk extra steps. This includes:
- Walking tours morning or afternoon
- Stairs with no option of lifts
- Walking from a coach drop-off point at a venue
Uneven floors / terrain ie: gravel, cobblestones
Total Price of the Holiday: £4,975 per person
Deposit: £300
Balance due:
29th October 2026
Whats Included:
- Return door-to-door car service
- Return flights from London Gatwick
- Fast Track through airport security
- Lunch onboard both flights & during excursions
- Coach travel throughout the holiday
- 6 nights at NEXT - by Savoy Signature Hotels
- Breakfast every morning at the hotel
- Lunch every day during excursions
- Dinner with 2 glasses of wine every night
- Admission/talks/tours at properties visited:
- Coastal Cruise with Lunch & Wildlife Spotting
- Folklore Dinner & Dance Show
- Funchal Cable Car
- Funchal Old Town & Gastro Experience
- Madeira Wine Tasting
- Monte Palace Tropical Garden
- Madeiran Embroidery Experience
- Mercado dos Lavradores
- Monte Toboggan Ride
- Porto Moniz Region
- Quinta do Furão
- Rum Masterclass
- Santana Houses
- Whale Museum, Caniçal
- The services of your Tour Managers throughout your stay
- Tourism Taxes & Gratuities
The minimum number required for this holiday is 10.
For more information or to book call
020 4568 3377
