Madeira Coast to Coast

Prepare for a world-first, multi-sport odyssey across the "Pearl of the Atlantic" with Rat Race Adventures from May 7–11, 2026. This meticulously crafted 5-day journey is not a traditional race, but a supported coast-to-coast traverse covering approximately 150km of Madeira’s most dramatic and vertical terrain. Over three intense action days, you will navigate the entire length of the island using a combination of 85km of trekking, 55km of mountain biking, and 10km of kayaking. This "end-to-end" line is the culmination of three years of expert planning, offering an exclusive route that you won't find anywhere else in the world of adventure sports.

The expedition’s crown jewel is the mountain stage, featuring a summit of the "insta-famous" Pico Ruivo (1862m). You will ascend via world-famous "peak-to-peak" trails that connect the island’s jagged interior "roof," offering views that plunge almost vertically into the sea. The journey transitions from the physical grit of high-altitude hiking to an exhilarating mountain bike descent, dropping from the high plateau all the way to the rugged coastline on the opposite side of the island. Throughout the journey, the Atlantic’s turquoise waters provide the backdrop for the kayaking legs, ensuring a true 360-degree exploration of this volcanic speck of land.

Designed for those who crave "dopamine through discovery," the Rat Race Madeira expedition is fully supported by a top-tier crew, including a British medical team, water safety experts, and bike mechanics. While the physical challenge is immense—with a total elevation gain of 3,556m—the "sleep style" is focused on recovery, featuring four nights in high-quality Hotels and B&Bs. Participants also receive a premium finisher's medal, a custom t-shirt, and the unique "rat rag." Although the 2026 event is currently sold out, you can join the waiting list or secure your spot for the 2027 and 2028 editions to redefine what it means to explore an island from shore to shore.