Madeira is a paradise if you like to walk or hike. Wow, there are so many trails here. We've hiked every day but one! On our last day on the north coast, we picked a coastal trail with wonderful sweeping views and big cliffs. It was beautiful. The weather held, amazingly, and we had a great afternoon. I've picked up a bit of a cold so we took it easy that day. Even though it was around 8 miles round trip, there were more manageable inclines than our previous treks. Some pictures are below!
On the way up.
The next day, we had to do a bit of driving to move to our last location in Madeira, Calheta. Unlike the cloudy and cool north coast, this side is sunnier and warmer. In fact, Tom is at the pool right now!
Anyway, we attempted Pico Grande today but we met with blustery cloudy conditions and had to turn back, just short of the summit. There is another, longer approach to this peak that we may tackle tomorrow if the weather looks good when we wake up! The views were beautiful and we enjoyed the hike, right up until clouds surrounded us, the wind picked up and we realized we shouldn't be on top of a slippery rock right then. Beautiful scenery though, pictures below. This was our lightest hiking day at around 6 miles. We will surpass that tomorrow for sure (weather permitting).
Beautiful views on the way up but clouds gathering.
The acacia trees are blooming now. It's beautiful!
On the way up.
Along the coastal trail. If you look closely you may be able to see the path carved into the rock. Just a few feet wide and perched very precariously.
It's hard to get the scale of the cliffs but they were over 1200ft. They've put railing in some spots. But not all.
The next day, we had to do a bit of driving to move to our last location in Madeira, Calheta. Unlike the cloudy and cool north coast, this side is sunnier and warmer. In fact, Tom is at the pool right now!
Anyway, we attempted Pico Grande today but we met with blustery cloudy conditions and had to turn back, just short of the summit. There is another, longer approach to this peak that we may tackle tomorrow if the weather looks good when we wake up! The views were beautiful and we enjoyed the hike, right up until clouds surrounded us, the wind picked up and we realized we shouldn't be on top of a slippery rock right then. Beautiful scenery though, pictures below. This was our lightest hiking day at around 6 miles. We will surpass that tomorrow for sure (weather permitting).
Beautiful views on the way up but clouds gathering.
Our far away peak in the distance. We made it up to just below the peak on the right side of this picture. So close!!
Sadly, we only have two more days on Madeira and then we head to Madrid for two nights before heading back to the US. It's always sad to be winding down vacation, we will just have to make the most of our last few days here. Speaking of which, it's time for dinner!!
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