The Madeira Island Ultra Trail (MIUT) is a scenic trail marathon which I've been fortunate to complete twice, although I've only tackled the marathon distance of 42 kilometers each time, compared to the full 115 kilometers (71 miles) route. The trails wind through rugged, mountainous terrain, taking us across diverse landscapes, from coastal cliffs and forest. With steep ascents and technical descents, MIUT is renowned not only for its stunning views but also for its difficulty, truly testing endurance, strength, and mental toughness. If you're seeking your next challenge, this race is definitely worth considering.

The event is held towards the end of April, with registrations opening around September. Spots fill up quickly, making it a challenge just to secure a place in the limited field of runners.

A Little About Madeira

Madeira Island, part of Portugal, is a stunning subtropical gem located in the Atlantic Ocean, about 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) southwest of mainland Europe. Known as the "Island of Eternal Spring" for its mild and pleasant climate year-round, Madeira features dramatic landscapes with steep cliffs, volcanic peaks, and amazing forests. The island is famous for its levadas (irrigation channels) that also serve as scenic hiking trails, offering breathtaking views.

Madeira is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, delicious traditional cuisine, and the world-renowned Madeira wine. The capital city, Funchal, is hub of activity, boasting historic architecture, lively markets, and beautiful gardens. With its blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, Madeira is a popular destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

The day I hiked the Watkin Trail at Snowdon started with me searching for my next challenge, and Snowdon stood out as the closest option. Without much knowledge of what to expect, a quick Google search helped me find a parking spot and a good starting point. Despite it being a last-minute decision on a busy bank holiday weekend, I left home at 3:00 AM and arrived at Snowdon around 8:45 AM, starting the trail at about 9:00 AM.

The hike was incredible, exactly what you'd expect from a strenuous trail, at approx. 750 meters of altitude things change slightly. What I didn’t realize at the time was that the path becomes extremely difficult beyond that point. It's not for the faint-hearted, as the trail almost vanishes beneath your feet, turning into loose scree that makes the hike both challenging and thrilling. I managed to complete the hike in 1 hour and 45 minutes each way, which I was really proud of.

On the way down, I discovered a few waterfalls where I took a dip and relaxed for a bit. The water was icy cold but totally worth it, and I'd highly recommend it to anyone up for a refreshing experience.

If you're thinking about doing something like this, I recommend checking the path's strenuous level and bringing clothing layers, as the weather can change quickly when clouds roll in at higher altitudes.

Now, I’m on the lookout for my next adventure. If you have any suggestions, feel free to drop me a message!