# Madeira Island Loop

> A loop of Madeira combines tunnel-heavy expressways with steep regional roads to viewpoints, the Paul da Serra plateau and the coast.

Source: https://camping-spirit.com/destinations/madeira-island-loop/

A loop of Madeira combines tunnel-heavy expressways with steep regional roads to viewpoints, the Paul da Serra plateau and the coast.

- **Region:** Madeira, Portugal
- **Top elevation:** 1,818 m (Pico do Arieiro)
- **Suggested time:** 4–6 days
- **Best season:** Year-round; mountains cooler and foggier in winter
- **Road:** Expressways with tunnels and narrow mountain roads

## What should you know before visiting Madeira Island Loop?

- The regional roads (ER) are steep, winding and often narrow, and hill starts are part of the drive. With a large motorhome, check the route carefully beforehand.
- The tourist board lists one official campsite on the island, in Ribeira da Janela. Motorhomes may overnight only in designated, licensed areas with local authorisation.
- For levada walks choose classified routes and book entry through the Simplifica portal. Walking alone is not recommended.

## The drive

Madeira has two types of road. The expressways (VE) are the fastest option and run largely through tunnels. The regional roads (ER) are slower, with steep serpentines and narrow bends. They include the climb to Pico do Arieiro (1,818 m), the Paul da Serra plateau, the road to Bica da Cana and the ER101 near Ponta do Sol, where the Cascata dos Anjos waterfall falls onto the road.

## Planning

Speed checks can occur in tunnels and are usually signposted in advance. Side roads are steep and winding, so drivers without mountain experience should take the first days slowly. Walk the levadas only on classified routes, with entry booked through the Simplifica portal. Keep a safe distance from cliff edges, stay on marked paths and do not touch the trees in the laurel forest.

## Camping

According to the tourist board, Madeira has one official campsite, in Ribeira da Janela. Some public forest areas allow camping only with prior authorisation and subject to availability; the forest institute IFCN is responsible. The Fanal site lies at about 1,135 m, has water and toilets and requires an IFCN licence. Motorhomes and rooftop tents may stay overnight only in designated, licensed areas with local authorisation. Fires are allowed only at fireplaces.

## FAQs

**May I overnight in a motorhome on Madeira?**
Only in designated, licensed areas, with the approval of the local authorities. Wild camping is not provided for. The tourist board or the forest institute IFCN can advise.

**What are the roads on Madeira like?**
Expressways (VE) are the fastest option and run largely through tunnels. Regional roads (ER) are steep, winding and often narrow. Plan short daily stages and look at the gradients beforehand.

**Do I have to book levada walks?**
The tourist board advises choosing classified routes and booking entry through the Simplifica portal. Read the IFCN forest institute's notes for each route beforehand.