Family vacation in Madeira - but what to do with children?
Madeira is beautiful – everyone knows that. But if you’re traveling with children, you might be familiar with this moment: the viewpoints are great, the levadas are too long, and after the second café at the latest, the little ones ask: “When are we going to do something?” That’s exactly what I’m here for.
The banana walk in Paul do Mar - a morning that children really love
I recently had the pleasure of guiding a family with three children through the banana plantations of Paul do Mar – and what began as a leisurely stroll turned into a real experience for the whole family.
Paul do Mar is located on the south coast of Madeira, surrounded by lush green plantations, palm trees and fresh sea air. The path leads through narrow alleyways, hidden paths and right alongside the impressive banana trees that characterize this small village.
What your children experience here - not just see
On the way, we discovered the different stages of the banana plant together: the large purple flower, the fruit that first grows downwards and later bends upwards, and finally the ripe bananas, ready for harvesting.
I explain to the children how the traditional levadas bring the water to the plantations, how vigorously the leaves grow – and how hard the people here work every day to care for each individual plant.
But the best moment? When one of the girls discovered a part of an old banana blossom as a small “key” – and collected mini bananas along the way, which are removed from the plants because they no longer grow. Their amazement at that moment was priceless.
The children listened, asked questions, laughed – and learned without it ever feeling like learning.
With all your senses
We took our time. Taking in the scent of the plants, the rustling of the leaves in the wind, the sun on our skin. No rushing, no program that had to be ticked off.
My little dog Kitty was there too, of course – and, as always, provided smiles and spontaneous breaks that meant just as much to the children as the plantations themselves.
What families & adults say about my tours
I accompany families on Madeira with real passion – whether on a banana walk with children or yoga for adults who want to experience the island from its calm, natural side. My guests rate both with 5 stars.
Ready for your banana planet adventure?
The banana walk is perfect for children aged 4 and over, takes a relaxed morning and can be wonderfully combined with breakfast or a visit to the beach in Paul do Mar.
Bonus tip: Dolphins & whales off Madeira
Anyone visiting Madeira with children should not miss a whale and dolphin tour. The family from Bananenwalk had experienced exactly that two days earlier – and told me about it with shining eyes: dolphins and whales to the left and right of the boat at the same time. For the children, this was the absolute highlight of their vacation.
Boats depart daily around Calheta, the speedboat is particularly popular with adventurous families – fast, safe and unforgettable. Use my link to get an exclusive discount code directly when booking.
This post is also available in:
