Machico holidays

If an authentic Madeira experience is high on your to-do list, the sleepy town of Machico is guaranteed to ensure traditional stays. Back in 1420, the first explorers settled on the island in this very location and it’s now teeming with history. Alongside its fascinating past, this hotspot is known for being a natural paradise. We’re talking rugged mountain backdrops, lush forest surroundings and walking trails that will allow you to discover cascading waterfalls and exotic wildlife. Not forgetting the beauty of the Atlantic is just a short stroll away when you need your beach fix. In terms of accommodation, Machico has an impressive line-up of highly rated hotels with luxury written all over them. Don’t believe us? See for yourself what all the fuss is about.

Machico information

Average flight time

Time difference

GMT +0h

Currency

Euro €

Language

Portuguese

A guide to Machico holidays

Food & drink in Machico

We’ll let you in on a secret, Machico is a foodies haven! Although small in size, this resort comes with a first class restaurant scene with influences from all over the world. From al fresco dining to wine deep in the vineyards and the freshest local ingredients, this destination is bound to get your taste buds going wild. For Madeira’s most famed dishes including the black scabbard fish alongside wine and garlic pork, we recommend Restaurant Lily’s as its been ranked number one in the area. This tasty eatery also won a Tripadvisor Travellers Award in 2020. If you’re missing home, British classics are best found in Loja Do Cha Madeira, while Beef & Wines is one of the island’s best steakhouses.

Beautiful beaches in Machico

Home to one of the few sandy beaches of Madeira, Praia de Machico imports its sands directly from North Africa adding exotic flare to your stay. It’s the best place on the island for a beach getaway due to its bay of turquoise tinted waters. There’s plenty of action here too with a range of watersports such as jet skiing, pedal boats and paddle boarding among a few of its highlights. Travelling with the little ones in hand? The sports facilities will win them over thanks to the football and volleyball courts. Meanwhile you can grab a sunlounger and position yourself under Madeira’s famed eternal sunshine. And when you get thirsty, there’s a selection of restaurants decorating the coastline.

Things to do in Machico

Alongside its beach scene and fine dining establishments, Machico has a wonderland of things to do. Whether you want to venture to the capital of Funchal for some city fun or check out natural wonders at the lava pools, no two days will be the same.

Cabo Giro: A must-visit during any holiday to Madeira, this viewpoint will set any heart racing. Head high up in the mountains to the tallest seacliff on the island. Rising almost vertically at 580 metres with a glass floor viewing platform, you need to be a daredevil to take advantage of the sights on offer. But trust us, it’s worth every moment as you take in the 360 degree landscapes that Madeira has a reputation for. Don’t forget your camera!

Hike Madeira’s epic terrain: There’s no better destination for walking trails than Madeira and if you’re based in Machico you have access to some of the best of the best. Vereda do Areeiro is without a doubt one of the most beautiful routes as it connects two of the highest peaks in Madeira, Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo, leaving you feeling on top of the world (literally). The Levada Walk is deep inside the interior of the island where you stumble across Risco Waterfall and a lagoon of 25 springs.