Madeira Golf Signature & Wine

Pick-up at your hotel in Funchal city center between 8:45 and 9:15 AM, drop-off between 3 and 3:30 PM.

Just a short drive from Funchal, Palheiro Golf Course is one of Madeira’s most visually striking and technically engaging layouts. Carved into steep hillsides between exotic vegetation and pine forest, the course makes exceptional use of terrain that many would consider impossible for golf.

Designed by Cabell B. Robinson, Palheiro embraces the island’s natural elevation changes, with ridges, valleys, and ornamental lakes shaping play throughout the round. While fairways are generally generous and multiple tee options make the course accessible to different abilities, accuracy from the tee is essential, particularly to set up approaches into the fast, undulating greens.

Often compared in style to classic continuous courses such as St. Andrews or Sotogrande, Palheiro rewards thoughtful shot placement rather than power. Bunkering is strategically positioned, and the changing angles and slopes keep the round engaging from start to finish.

The experience is completed by a remarkable clubhouse, set approximately 500 metres above sea level, with a panoramic terrace offering sweeping views over Funchal Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, a memorable setting both before and after the round.

Key Highlights

• Par: 72 (18 holes)

• Course Length: 6,086 m

• Difficulty Level: Hard

• Terrain: Hilly

• Architect: Cabell B. Robinson

• Year Opened: 1993

• Design Style: Continuous course

• Playing Characteristics:

  • Significant elevation changes

  • Generous fairways with demanding tee-shot placement

  • Fast, undulating greens protected by strategic bunkering

• Location: Approx. 10 minutes from Funchal

• Clubhouse: Panoramic terrace with views over Funchal Bay and the Atlantic

Please note: Golf rounds may be scheduled consecutively or spaced across your stay, depending on your preference. Just reach out to us.

From 9 AM to 5 PM. Pick-up and drop-off at your hotel in downtown Funchal.

Private tour for your group only.

• Enjoy a full-day private wine tour through Madeira’s dramatic north coast, combining volcanic landscapes, local wine, and coastal scenery.
• The experience begins with a visit to the São Vicente volcanic caves, formed nearly 890,000 years ago, offering insight into the island’s geological origins. From there, explore the São Vicente wine region, known for its steep slopes, ocean influence, and status as Madeira’s second-largest grape-producing area.
• A guided visit to a local winery includes time in the vineyards and a private tasting of Madeira table wines, rarely found outside the island. The day continues along the coast with scenic stops at Seixal’s black sand beach and the natural lava pools of Porto Moniz, allowing time to enjoy Madeira’s unique landscapes at a relaxed pace.

Pick-up at your hotel in Funchal city center between 8:45 and 9:15 AM, drop-off between 3 and 3:30 PM.

A golf day in Madeira begins without hurry. With transportation arranged in advance, the focus stays where it should, on the round ahead. Whether you’ve chosen Santo da Serra or Palheiro, each course offers a very different way to experience golf on the island, shaped by elevation, light, and Atlantic air.

At Santo da Serra, the round unfolds across open terrain high above the coast, where altitude and wind quietly influence club selection and course management. Fairways invite confident play, but thoughtful decisions are rewarded, especially as the land drops away and panoramic views open up across the island. It’s a course that challenges judgement more than strength.

At Palheiro, the experience is more intimate and technical. Set into steep hillsides between trees and gardens, the course asks for accuracy from the tee and patience on approach. Elevation changes, fast greens, and carefully placed bunkers keep the round engaging from start to finish, with views over Funchal Bay appearing when you least expect them.

Whichever course you choose, the day finishes as it should, unhurried, satisfied, and grounded in the quiet pleasure of a well-played round, where the setting matters just as much as the score.

Please note: Golf rounds may be scheduled consecutively or spaced across your stay, depending on your preference. Just reach out to us.

Suggestion for the day: Unveiling Madeira's Eastern Delights

• Santana (Highlight): Our adventure begins in Santana, a village renowned for its iconic triangular thatched-roof houses. These colorful dwellings, known as "palheiros," are a symbol of Madeira's traditional architecture. Wander through the village, admiring these unique houses and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
• Machico: Continue your journey to Machico, the first capital of Madeira Island. Explore the historic city center, visit the Captain's House Museum to learn about the island's early settlers, and relax on the golden sands of Machico Bay.
• Pico do Arieiro: Ascend to heights at Pico do Arieiro, Madeira's third-highest peak. On a clear day, witness stunning panoramic views of the island's dramatic landscapes, including the Curral das Freiras Valley.
• Ponta de São Lourenço: Your final stop is Ponta de São Lourenço, a nature reserve at the easternmost tip of the island. This peninsula boasts a unique lunar-like landscape with volcanic rock formations and sparse vegetation. Explore the network of hiking trails, take in the dramatic ocean views, and witness the beauty of this natural wonder.

👉 We’ll make sure you’re matched with the perfect tour for your stay.

Suggestion for the day: A Day Trip to the West Coast

• Ribeira Brava: Ribeira Brava is known for its rum production, so consider visiting a local distillery to taste this Madeiran specialty.
• Seixal: Continue along the scenic route to Seixal, a charming village known for its black sand beach and natural rock pools. Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters or simply relax on the shore, basking in the beauty of the surroundings.
• Porto Moniz: Our suggested itinerary leads you to Porto Moniz, a highlight of the west coast. This seaside town is famous for its volcanic rock pools, and natural formations filled with refreshing seawater.
• Calheta: As the day winds down, head to Calheta, a town known for its beach and laid-back atmosphere. 
• Ponta do Sol: Your final stop is Ponta do Sol, a village named for its sunny disposition. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, enjoying the ocean views and the peaceful ambiance.

👉 We’ll make sure you’re matched with the perfect tour for your stay.

At the scheduled time, a private transfer will take you back to Madeira Airport for your return journey, bringing your Madeira golf and wine experience to a close.

Thank you for choosing Portugal Getaways! We look forward to the opportunity to travel with you again soon. If you have any feedback or if there's anything more we can assist you with, please don't hesitate to let us know.