If you’re thinking about mountain biking in Madeira, stop thinking — and start planning. This volcanic island in the Atlantic is hands-down one of the best MTB destinations we’ve ever ridden.
After a travel-heavy start and a few days of dialing in, Day 4 of our Madeira mountain bike adventure brought dusty descents, trail tech, and unexpected beauty — with a little bit of chaos mixed in.
🚵♂️ Back on the Bike After a Rest Day
With our legs slightly recharged (and stomachs still recovering from Portuguese steak), we rolled out for Day 4 of riding with Radwall Madeira — our local shuttle crew and trail gurus. These guys seriously know every inch of this island, and they lined us up with a loop of five fast, technical, and windy trails on Madeira’s southeast side.
It started like most days here: with killer European coffee and high stoke levels. Then it was off to the trailhead, where shadows played tricks on our eyes and loose corners kept us on our toes.
🌲 Riding Through Shadows & Chunk
Madeira is known for its ever-changing terrain, and Day 4 was no exception. The sun would blast us one second, then we’d drop into thick tree tunnels and sketchy shadows the next — making it hard to read the trail and react in time.
And just when we thought we were in the clear… BAM — the chunkiest section of the trip.
We’re talking janky rock gardens, steep drops, and tight corners that made you second-guess your life choices. It was raw, rugged, and exactly why we came here.
🤕 Crash, Cold Brew & Flower Power
Of course, it wouldn’t be a proper enduro mission without a little drama. Unfortunately, Jeremy took a crash on one of the chunkier sections and had to sit out part of the day. Fingers crossed he’s good for tomorrow.
Meanwhile, trail-side caffeine rituals continued — including a very improvised (but effective) cold brew made with a tea kettle. Yeah, we’re innovators.
Oh, and did we mention the Madeira Flower Festival was in full swing? 🌸
Every village and road was bursting with color. Riding through poppin’ blooms with ocean views in the background? That’s the kind of vibe you don’t forget.
🌍 Why Mountain Biking in Madeira Should Be on Your Bucket List
Madeira is still flying under the radar in the global MTB scene — but not for long. With its:
- Epic shuttle-access trails
- Year-round rideable weather
- Insane terrain variety
- And top-tier local guides (Radwall, we see you 👊)
…it’s quickly becoming one of Europe’s best enduro mountain biking destinations.
Whether you’re into technical reds, fast blues, flowy ridgelines, or just want to pedal somewhere that feels totally untamed — Madeira delivers.
🛠️ What to Pack for Madeira MTB Adventures
If you’re planning your own Madeira mountain biking trip, here’s what we recommend:
- Enduro or all-mountain bike (170mm travel is ideal)
- Spare brake pads & tires – the chunk eats gear
- Rain jacket – the weather changes fast
- Good shoes & gloves – loose rock and slippery roots are common
- And always… a sense of humor 😅
🎥 Watch the Full Day 4 Vlog
Want to ride the shadows and chunk with us? Catch all the behind-the-scenes footage, sketchy moments, and wild flower-filled descents in the Day 4 video.
Next up: Day 5, where things get steeper, sketchier, and way more scenic. Stay tuned!
Did you miss the earlier days in Madeira?
- Day 1 in Madeira – Stretching Our Comfort Zones
- Day 2 in Madeira – The Ultimate Mountain Biking Adventure
- Day 3 in Madeira – Rocks, Reds, and Rough Mornings
- Day 4 in Madeira – (today)
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