• Disabled Facilities

As with the rest of Europe, it is illegal to construct buildings in Madeira without providing facilities and access for people with reduced mobility. So you will find that all of the new shopping malls and modern areas have been built with this in mind. This being said, disabled facilities are not common in older building areas in Madeira. In general the streets and pavements have been constructed with small cobblestones and although stunning to look at, it is not the most practical surface for people with disabilities, although there is already a greater effort by the local authorities to adapt.

Most hotels are able to comfortably accommodate people with reduced mobility and almost all have elevators and ramps. However, we do advise you to ensure your accommodation has adequate access and facilities before you book your hotel.

The cable car has full disabled access and will stop for people with wheelchairs to get in. Madeira Airport also offers all necessary conditions for people with reduced mobility.

The Funchal Marina also has disabled facilities with a ramp near the Beer House bar providing access to all the restaurants and snack bars available in this lovely area by the sea.

Madeira Acessível By Wheelchair is a wheelchair-accessible travel company that provides services to people with all types of disabilities. They offer customized wheelchair tours around the island, including levada tours, off-road tours, multi-day trips, private and shared tours, sightseeing, and visits to the island's gardens and museums, as well as restaurants.

TOP TIP - The footpath between Pico das Pedras and Queimadas in Santana is accessible for people with special needs. Extending for almost two kilometres, all visitors can appreciate the incredible beauty of the Laurissilva Forest (forest of trees endemic to Madeira). The course is wheelchair-friendly and information is provided in Braille and SPS (for people with cerebral palsy).