Sustainable hotels in Madeira

Discover Sustainable Tourism in Madeira, Portugal

Madeira, Portugal is a Portuguese archipelago located in the Atlantic Ocean, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and charming culture. A sustainable tourist location, Madeira has become increasingly popular for travelers seeking eco-friendly accommodations and outdoor experiences. Here, visitors can explore picturesque villages, relax on the golden sand beaches, and enjoy scenic walks through the lush countryside. If you're looking for a purposeful trip to Madeira, there are plenty of sustainable hotels and eco-friendly resorts to choose from.

Sustainable Hotels in Madeira

There are many hotels in Madeira that are dedicated to preserving the environment and contributing to the local community. Here are some examples:

Sé Boutique Hotel

Sé Boutique hotel is an urban hotel located in the heart of Funchal, committed to implementing eco-friendly practices. The hotel has earned the Green Key certification, which means they have achieved an international award for their sustainable tourism efforts. Sé Boutique Hotel reduces its carbon footprint by managing waste effectively, minimizing energy usage, and committing to sustainable purchases. The hotel sensitizes employees to environmental issues, informs guests about its practices, and encourages all visitors to spread the word about the current climate crisis.

Hotel Orca Praia

Hotel Orca Praia is a proactive hotel that takes a comprehensive approach to reducing its environmental impact. The hotel has earned the Green Key certification for its commitment to reducing its carbon emissions and utilizing clean energy systems. To help protect the environment, the hotel utilizes solar panels to heat water and has installed a biomass boiler, allowing them to use wood, paper, and other bio-substances for heating systems. The team at Orca Praia has made a commitment to eliminating harmful chemicals and utilizing eco-friendly practices to safeguard the environment.

Hotel Quinta da Serra

Located in Jardim da Serra, Hotel Quinta Da Serra has received the Green Key award every year since 2016. The hotel is ambitious about preserving the natural beauty of the island and has implemented modern-day technology that promotes sustainability. Visitors to the hotel can explore over 30,000 square meters of forests, observe the tallest tree in Madeira, and enjoy organic food production. The restaurant is certified organic, and the hotel values regional products and organic farming. Guests can learn about the hotel's efforts to maintain an eco-friendly operation and how they strive to lower their carbon footprint.

Exploring Madeira Sustainably

Madeira offers various opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to engage in eco-friendly activities. Here are some activities you can enjoy:

Hiking and Levada Walks

Madeira is known for its breathtaking hiking trails that wind through lush forests, around cascading waterfalls, and through picturesque villages. The levada walks are a network of water channels that span the island, and visitors can follow these pathways for a unique experience. Some popular trails include the 25 Fontes Levada Walk and the Rabaçal to Risco Waterfall Walk.

Explore the Waters of Madeira

Madeira offers some of the most beautiful coastal landscapes, and the crystal-clear waters are the perfect way to experience the beauty of the island. Water-based activities, such as paddle-boarding, kayaking, and surfing, are some of the most popular pastimes for visitors.

However, with the increase in tourism, comes an increase in potential damage to marine life. To help mitigate this, sustainable businesses have emerged on the island that offers guided tours in a way that protects the environment.

One such business is the ‘Madeira Ocean Trails,’ which provides guided sea tours to explore the unique coastal features of the island. The business is committed to preserving the local wildlife and coastal environment and has been awarded the Green Key certification.

Visiting the Madeira Nature Reserve

Madeira is known for its natural beauty, and its nature reserves are an excellent way to experience it. Visitors to the Madeira Nature Reserve can take in the stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and endemic flora and fauna that can only be found on the island.

The Madeira Nature Reserve is a protected area, with strict regulations in place to ensure that visitors are respectful of the environment. There are guided tours available for visitors to the nature reserve, which are offered by companies that are committed to preserving the natural beauty of the island.

Final thoughts

Madeira offers a beautiful location to explore with a growing emphasis on sustainable tourism. Visitors to the island have several options when looking for a place to stay, with many hotels committed to minimizing their carbon footprint and preserving the environment.

In addition to the eco-friendly hotels, sustainable businesses have emerged, offering unique experiences such as guided sea tours and hiking tours of the island's natural reserves.