The Fanal Forest by Feeling Madeira

If you’re looking for a way to truly connect with Madeira’s legendary Laurissilva Forest, this tour by Feeling Madeira offers a wonderful opportunity. Highlighted for its dazzling scenery and untouched beauty, the experience promises a walk through one of the island’s most enchanting natural landscapes. The tour is a well-paced, approximately 7-hour journey that includes transportation, expert guidance, and a chance to see Madeira’s rare flora and fauna in their natural habitat.

Two features truly stand out: the pick-up service from major hotels in Funchal and neighboring towns, which makes logistics seamless, and the tour’s focus on walking through the heart of Madeira’s wilderness—a chance to see a landscape that has changed little since the 15th century. The guides are praised for their engaging, humorous approach, notably making the day enjoyable and memorable, as one reviewer put it, with a guide who “made everyone in our group laugh.”

The only possible consideration might be the moderate physical fitness requirement—the terrain can be uneven and involves some walking, but if you enjoy a good hike and fresh air, this will be more of a perk than a barrier. Overall, it offers excellent value for the chance to enjoy Madeira’s natural beauty with expert insights and comfortable transportation.

Key points / Takeaways

• Unique Wilderness: The tour takes you into the heart of Madeira’s untouched native forest, where flora and fauna have remained largely unchanged for centuries.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides keep the walk lively and informative, often sharing interesting tidbits and local humor.
• Stunning Views: Expect breathtaking vistas of the surrounding villages and lush greenery, perfect for photography or just soaking in nature.
• Flexible Trail: Even if the levada ends, the real adventure begins — keep exploring beyond the marked paths for surprises.
• Convenient Pickup: Free hotel pickups in Funchal and nearby towns eliminate transportation hassle.
• Affordable and Well-Rated: At $40, the tour is considered excellent value, especially with consistent 5-star reviews praising its scenic beauty and guide’s charisma.

Discovering the Magic of Madeira’s Laurissilva Forest

Walking through the Fanal Forest, I felt like I’d stepped into a scene from a fairy tale. This guided tour offered a chance to explore one of Madeira’s most treasured natural sites—a UNESCO World Heritage Area filled with ancient trees, endemic plants, and the sounds of native birds. I was struck by how the scenery combines both dramatic mountain views and intimate woodland moments, with the fresh scent of eucalyptus and the whisper of wind in the trees.

Feeling Madeira’s tour begins with a pick-up service from central Funchal, making it easy to start your day without worrying about transportation. From there, the journey to the forest is comfortable, and the guide, a cheerful fellow—whose name I wish I remembered—kept the mood lively with fun facts and local jokes. One reviewer said, “Our guide was super lovely and such a funny guy, he made everyone in our group laugh and enjoy our day,” and I agree that a good guide can make a big difference when hiking through such tranquil terrain.

What I love most is the diversity of scenery. The first part of the walk offers views of a charming village in the distance, a perfect spot for photos and to appreciate the contrast between settled life and wild nature. As you venture deeper, the trail winds into the core of the forest, where trees like the laurel and heather dominate the landscape. The sound of a chaffinch or the sight of a rare native plant makes this a special place for nature lovers.

A standout feature is the feeling of stillness and serenity you get once inside the forest. It’s a place where even the most restless will find calm, and if you’re curious, you can keep walking beyond the marked levada—don’t worry if the trail ends, because the forest still holds surprises for those willing to explore a little further.

The only real consideration? The terrain can be uneven, so a moderate level of fitness is recommended. But I think that’s fair given the rewarding views and the chance to see Madeira’s lush flora and fauna up close.

The Itinerary in Detail

Pick-up and Meeting in Funchal or Nearby Towns

Feeling Madeira makes it straightforward to join their tour with hotel pickups in Funchal, Câmara de Lobos, Ribeira Brava, Ponta do Sol, and Calheta. This convenience means you won’t waste time figuring out how to get there, especially valuable after a day of exploring.

The First Stop: Posto Florestal Fanal

The journey begins at Posto Florestal Fanal, a perfect spot to start soaking in the forest’s essence. The trail here is a mix of endemic and introduced vegetation, which offers a fascinating insight into how Madeira’s landscape evolved since its discovery. You’ll see a variety of tree species, notably the iconic laurel and heather, along with other native plants.

You’ll also get panoramic views of the nearby village, which adds a charming contrast to the dense greenery. One reviewer describes the forest as “breathtaking,” emphasizing how the smell of eucalyptus trees on the way there is incredibly refreshing. Expect a leisurely walk, with plenty of opportunities for photos and just enjoying the fresh mountain air.

Deeper into the Forest: The Heart of Madeira

As you move further into the forest, you’ll notice how the landscape becomes more pristine, almost untouched since the days of early explorers. Here, the flora and fauna flourish, with native species like the tentilhão (Chaffinch) and various plants adding splashes of color and sound to the walk.

The tour emphasizes that, even if the levada (irrigation canal) appears to end, don’t stop—continue exploring. The forest’s serenity and natural beauty continue well beyond the official trail, making it a perfect spot for those who want to venture further. This advice was echoed in a review where the guide encouraged guests to explore beyond the designated paths, revealing the forest’s true hidden charm.

Final Thoughts on the Experience

Throughout the walk, guides like the one praised for their humor and knowledge keep the mood engaging. One reviewer joked about the memorable day, mentioning how the guide “made everyone laugh,” which is exactly what you want on a nature excursion. At just $40, the tour offers remarkable value for such a comprehensive, scenic, and educational experience.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This tour is ideal for nature enthusiasts, those who enjoy gentle hikes in peaceful settings, and anyone eager to see Madeira’s endemic flora. It suits travelers who prefer a small group experience—with a maximum of 16 participants—ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. If you’re looking for a full-day nature walk that combines breathtaking scenery, native wildlife, and good company, this is a strong choice.

It’s particularly perfect if you’re staying in Funchal or nearby and want a hassle-free way to explore Madeira’s lush forests without the burden of planning every detail.

Price and Logistics: Good Value for a Scenic Day

For $40, this guided tour packs a lot into a 7-hour experience, including transportation, guidance, and access to some of Madeira’s most stunning natural areas. When you consider the quality of scenery, the opportunity to learn from friendly guides, and the convenience of hotel pickup, it’s a solid deal. The free cancellation policy offers flexibility, making it a sensible choice for travelers who want to keep their plans adaptable.

The tour’s moderate physical demand means most visitors with average fitness levels will find it manageable, but it’s not a leisurely stroll—be prepared for some uneven terrain and a bit of walking.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If your idea of a memorable Madeira experience involves seeing lush, ancient forests and escaping the crowds, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate authentic natural landscapes, enjoy a sprinkle of humor and storytelling from guides, and value the convenience of hotel pickups. The stunning views and peaceful environment make it an excellent choice for nature lovers and curious explorers alike.

While it might not be the best fit if you’re looking for a strenuous hike or a deep dive into Madeira’s cultural sites, it offers a genuine window into the island’s pristine wilderness—an essential part of Madeira’s identity.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, Feeling Madeira provides hotel pick-up service in Funchal and nearby towns, making it easy to start your day without extra planning.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy the scenery, take photos, and explore the forest beyond the main trails.

What is the physical difficulty of the walk?
The walk requires a moderate level of fitness because of uneven terrain and some walking. It’s suitable for most travelers comfortable with light hiking.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start are non-refundable.

What should I bring for the walk?
Comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket (weather can change quickly), water, and camera for all the stunning views.

Is there an age limit or special considerations for children?
The tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness; children who can handle uneven terrain should be fine, but it’s best to check directly with Feeling Madeira for specific age recommendations.

In essence, this tour offers a balanced and engaging way to experience Madeira’s legendary Laurissilva Forest, blending scenic beauty, native wildlife, and expert guidance—all for a very reasonable price. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply a lover of lush landscapes, this is a walk worth taking.