Portugal
Madeira
Best months: Apr, May, Mar, Oct
Madeira is cycling on a different scale. The island rises almost vertically from the Atlantic — Pico Ruivo tops out at 1862m just 10km from the sea — so every ride involves serious climbing. The roads are immaculate, carved into cliff faces and threading through laurisilva cloud forest that has survived since before the Ice Age. The famous levada (irrigation channel) paths offer unique gravel riding through the mountains. The climate is near-perfect year-round: warm on the coast, fresh in the mountains, with the north coast wetter and the south sunny even in winter. The island has become a destination for pro cyclists doing altitude blocks, and infrastructure for cyclists is improving fast. There is nowhere else quite like it.
Terrain
0 votes · avg 5.0/5
Best months to ride
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Scores
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Climate
| Month | Day °C | Night °C | Sun days | Sun h | Rain days | Precip mm |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 9° | 4° | 28 | 7.9 | 19 | 92 |
| Feb | 9° | 3° | 26 | 9.2 | 21 | 117 |
| Mar | 8° | 3° | 28 | 9.3 | 31 | 253 |
| Apr | 9° | 3° | 29 | 10.4 | 27 | 157 |
| May ★ | 11° | 5° | 30 | 11.5 | 25 | 135 |
| Jun | 13° | 7° | 30 | 12.1 | 25 | 57 |
| Jul | 15° | 9° | 30 | 11.7 | 18 | 43 |
| Aug | 16° | 10° | 31 | 11.9 | 17 | 66 |
| Sep | 15° | 9° | 27 | 10.3 | 22 | 121 |
| Oct | 14° | 8° | 30 | 9.2 | 28 | 96 |
| Nov | 11° | 6° | 29 | 9.0 | 23 | 121 |
| Dec | 8° | 3° | 24 | 7.5 | 26 | 217 |
FAQ
When is the best time to cycle in Madeira?
The best months to cycle in Madeira are April, May, March, October. August and December tend to be the least favourable. Based on our editorial recommendation.
How challenging is the terrain in Madeira?
The terrain in Madeira is classified as alpine — high-alpine cycling — demanding cols and significant elevation gain. Community terrain rating: 5.0/5.
What types of cycling are popular in Madeira?
Community ratings for Madeira: mtb (10.0/10). Mtb cycling scores highest at 10.0/10.
Is Madeira cyclist-friendly?
Madeira scores 8/10 for cyclist friendliness — very good — well-signed roads and cycle-friendly culture. This covers road quality, signage, driver awareness, and cycling culture.
Is cycling in Madeira safe?
In Madeira, personal safety scores 9/10 (very safe), and traffic safety scores 8/10. Always follow local traffic rules and wear a helmet.
How affordable is a cycling trip in Madeira?
Madeira is reasonably priced for cyclists (cost score: 6/10 — higher means cheaper). Food access scores 7/10. This covers accommodation, cafes, food and local services.
How is the food and resupply situation for cyclists in Madeira?
In Madeira, food quality scores 9/10, food access (cafes and resupply points) scores 7/10. Plan your resupply stops according to the access score when riding remote routes.
Planning a ride in Madeira?
Check wind, rain and temperature along your exact route.