Solo Madeira

[MysticHalfWitch]

I have just booked my first solo holiday for July next year and am beyond excited. I’ve gone for Madeira as I’m a decent hiker and there looks to be plenty to keep me occupied for a week.

Has anyone got any tips for a 48 year old solo traveller? Or has anyone been to Madeira and have any must see recommendations?

I've been there 4 times, but with DH. It always seems very safe, & I've often walked out alone.
Buses are cheap & reliable, plenty of taxis as well. We hired a car once, but it wasn't really necessary. There are organised trips you can take, your hotel should be able to help.
Most hotels display what cruise ships are in port, so avoid things like the cable car, gardens, etc until the crowds are back on board. They tend to disembark a.m., then back on board for lunch.
I'm unable to walk the levadas, so can't comment.
It's a beautiful place, I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

We did a vineyard tour which we booked via Viator, an 8 person taxi picked us up from the hotel and the day was fantastic, you are with your little group of 8 the whole time and we had lovely chats with everyone in the group

The cable car is worth it!

I had no problems as a sole woman.

Thank you everyone! I’m planning on about three or four hikes, one being PR1, and I definitely want to do the cable car and potentially the toboggan!

I’ve been to Madeira hiking solo a few times. Never had any problems as a woman. Be aware that now they’ve made you book certain popular routes which has put me off going again.

Thanks @garlictwist, I’ll bear that in mind. To be honest I’m a ‘planner’ anyway so will make sure I book in plenty of time.

I think Madeira would be perfect for a solo trip. DH booked a shuttle for one of the more strenuous hikes which involved a lift there and one at the end point for going back and we did an escorted hike of the 27 waterfalls ( or something like that) together which was fairly easy.
I also really enjoyed the Monte Palace you could easily spend a few hours there and people watching from one of the street restaurants in the centre. It’s a great place and feels very safe.

The municipal botanical gardens were extremely beautiful, and we also went to the Monte Palace gardens which were perhaps more extraordinary but less beautiful? I would definitely visit both again - and you can use the cable car to get to either. Plus the toboggan goes from near the Monte Palace gardens.

We found a fab little local bakers: https://maps.app.goo.gl/xpdbrcwPqq1sMirB6?g_st=ac

We found prices varied wildly - one bar we were in the wine started off at €3 per glass and went down to €1.50 by glass 3. Another restaurant was €3.50 but they must have served you half a bottle. And another place would be €7. So definitely worth getting off the beaten track a little.