This is the ultimate guide to visiting Fanal Forest Madeira!
If you’ve ever wanted to experience a place that’s straight out of a storybook, Fanal Forest in Madeira is it. Think old, twisted trees and misty vibes that’ll make you feel like you’re in another world.
We visited Fanal Forest during our adventures around the Portuguese island of Madeira and it was one of the highlights of our trip.
Whether you’re up for a hike, love taking photos, or want to chill in some seriously awesome nature, Fanal Forest has you covered. Read on to discover everything there is to know about this beautiful location on Madeira.
FANAL FOREST MADEIRA – OVERVIEW
Firstly, here is an overview of Fanal Forest in Madeira including its location, how to get there, the best tour for visiting, and more.
WHERE IS FANAL FOREST IN MADEIRA?
Fanal Forest is located in the northwest part of Madeira, not far from the coastal cities of Seixal and Ribeira da Janela. It’s about an hour’s drive from Funchal, Madeira’s capital.
Click here to see the exact location on Google Maps.
It’s within the Laurisilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient, moss-covered trees, and misty atmosphere.
The forest is part of the greater Madeira Natural Park and sits at an altitude of around 1,150 meters, and it’s simply one of the best places to visit on the island.
HOW TO GET TO MADEIRA FANAL FOREST?
Getting to Fanal Forest is pretty straightforward. If you’re staying in Funchal, Madeira’s main city, it’s about a one-hour drive northwest to reach the forest.
You can rent a car on Madeira, which is the most flexible way to visit, or join a guided tour with an experienced guide.
There is a large parking lot with plenty of spaces to park your car and there is no entrance fee to visit the forest.
The roads are well-maintained, but they can be narrow and winding, typical of Madeira’s mountainous setting, so I recommend booking a day tour if you’re not comfortable driving on the roads.
BEST FANAL FOREST MADEIRA TOUR
The best way to visit is by joining a Fanal Forest Madeira Tour by Jeep.
This guided tour in Madeira includes a visit to Fanal Forest, Miradouro do Veu da Noiva, Porto Moniz Natural Pools, Cabo Girao, and more!
BEST TIME TO VISIT FANAL FOREST MADEIRA?
The best time to visit Fanal Forest is during the spring and autumn months between April to June and September to November.
This time of year is when the forest is most beautiful, with mild temperatures, plus there will be fewer crowds.
Summer can be busier, and winter might be a bit wet and chilly, but Fanal is still magical year-round. In terms of time of the day, visit early for fewer crowds and higher chances of fog.
IS THE FANAL FOREST HIKE MADEIRA HARD?
There are a few hikes to choose from in this region. The trails are well-marked, some have mostly flat areas while others have some incline and decline for those who want more of a challenge.
You don’t need to be an experienced hiker but it would definitely help to wear a good pair of shoes. The trails can get muddy, especially after rain, so be prepared for some slippery spots.
These are the 3 hiking trails in the forest:
- Fanal Forest Walk – Less than 1km – Easy
- Levada Dos Cedros – 10.5km-loop – Moderate
- Vereda do Fanal – 11km one way or 22km in and out – Challenging
FANAL FOREST WALK
The Fanal Forest Walk is a gentle trail that winds through the ancient trees shrouded in mist, or with a beautiful setting if you visit on a sunny day.
The path begins at the parking lot which is well-marked and suitable for all fitness levels. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a peaceful 30-minute to 1-hour stroll.
Along the way, you’ll likely spot some of the island’s unique flora and fauna. This is the trail we did and while it was relatively short, it was more than enough for a great experience in the forest!
LEVADA DOS CEDROS
Levada dos Cedros is one of Madeira’s classic levada walks, taking you deep into the heart of the island.
The trail follows an old irrigation channel through dense forests of laurel and heather, with the occasional glimpse of dramatic valleys below.
It’s a moderately challenging hike with some narrow paths and uneven terrain, but the beauty of the surroundings makes it worth the effort.
You’ll pass by small streams and waterfalls, and you can expect to complete the trail in 3 to 4 hours.
VEREDA DO FANAL
Vereda do Fanal is a more adventurous trail that offers a bit of everything Madeira is known for. It’s perfect if you’re up for a more rugged and rewarding hike.
Starting near the Paul da Serra plateau, this hike takes you through stunning landscapes that change from open moorland to thick, ancient forests.
The trail can be a bit challenging, with some steep sections and rocky paths, but you’ll get sweeping views over the island and won’t see barely any people, which is a massive bonus.
Note that this is a challenging trail and you can expect to complete the 11km hike in around 3 hours if hiking one way and taking a taxi back to the starting point, and up to 7 hours if hiking the 22km trail in and out.
WHAT TO EXPECT AT FANAL FOREST MADEIRA WALK
Now let’s look at the overall experience you can expect when visiting Fanal Forest in Madeira.
The Fanal Forest Madeira walk weaves in and out of thick, mossy woods and into meadows with sweeping views over the surrounding mountains.
Enjoy beautiful moments of silence with only the sound of leaves rustling in the wind and birds chirping in the trees. You’ll also see cows grazing which makes the scenery in the forest even more unique.
Do not forget your camera as it’s one of the most photogenic scenes you will have ever come across, especially when the mist often rolls in, creating an even more mysterious and magical experience.
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FACILITIES AT FANAL FOREST IN MADEIRA
Because it’s a relatively remote area, Fanal Forest offers few facilities.
There are no shops or restaurants, so you will have to bring your own food and water, as well as anything you think might be a necessity when visiting.
The nearest services, like restaurants and accommodations, can be found in the nearby villages such as Ribeira da Janela and Porto Moniz.
When you arrive at the parking area, there are picnic tables, a hiking map with useful information, trash bins, and toilet amenities that you can use before or after the walk.
Throughout the forest, there are plenty of shady spots beneath the trees to take a break, chill for a while, and even have a picnic.
FANAL FOREST IN MADEIRA – FAQ
Last but not least, here are some frequently asked questions from first-time visitors.
WHAT TO PACK FOR FANAL FOREST MADEIRA?
Bring good boots with grip if you choose to hike one of the longer trails as they can get quite muddy and slippery.
It might even feel cool and misty in the forest so bring a light jacket, summer or not, and be sure to pack plenty of water and snacks as there are no stores close by.
And of course, don’t forget your camera to take lots of photos of the magical scenery.
IS THERE A PARKING LOT AT FANAL FOREST IN MADEIRA?
Yes, there is a parking lot with plenty of spots available, even during peak seasons.
The parking lot is located right next to the trailheads so you can get straight on with the longer hiking trails or the easy walk.
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CAN YOU VISIT FANAL FOREST WITH KIDS?
Yes, Fanal Forest is a kid-friendly spot in Madeira, so don’t hesitate to take your little ones. The trails are generally safe and manageable, even for younger children, as long as they’re supervised.
However, it may feel a bit cool for them so wear warm layers and be prepared for the mist and the hike.
WHERE TO STAY IN MADEIRA
Funchal is the main hub on Madeira Island with dozens of accommodations to choose from so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay during your visit.
Below you’ll find properties suitable for luxury travelers, budget backpackers, and everyone in between.
LUXURY: MELIA MADEIRA MARE
Melia Madeira Mare is a sleek and modern hotel just a short distance from Funchal’s city center. With stunning Atlantic Ocean views, the hotel offers luxurious rooms with balconies and a comfortable seating area.
You can relax by the pool or enjoy the full-service spa, which includes a sauna and massage treatments.
The on-site restaurant serves a buffet breakfast and a la carte dinner, and that’s excellent if you don’t plan to head out in the evening.
MID-RANGE: PESTANA CASINO STUDIOS
Pestana Casino Studios offers a fantastic location in the heart of Funchal, with the added bonus of an outdoor swimming pool.
The spacious studio units come with air conditioning, a kitchenette, and soundproofing for a comfortable stay.
You’ll also have access to free Wi-Fi and daily room service. The 24-hour front desk is a plus, and nearby attractions like Marina do Funchal and Gorgulho Beach make exploring easy.
BUDGET: 29 MADEIRA HOSTEL
Located right in the center of Funchal, 29 Madeira Hostel provides affordable, charming accommodations. The dorms are thoughtfully designed with local craftsmanship and offer shared bathrooms.
For more privacy, you can book a double or twin room. This hostel’s central location makes it easy to explore nearby restaurants that serve authentic Madeiran cuisine.
It’s a perfect budget-friendly spot for travelers looking to enjoy the local culture without breaking the bank.
For More Options, Check Hotels on Booking.com
FINAL THOUGHTS – MADEIRA FANAL FOREST
This was everything you need to know for planning the perfect trip to Fanal Forest Madeira Portugal.
We hope you enjoyed reading this guide, and if you have any questions, please leave a comment below this post and we will get back to you as soon as we can.
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