In the middle of the Atlantic Ocean lies Madeira. The island is a green paradise with breathtaking views, high mountain peaks, ancient traditions and an irresistible charm. Madeira is a dream destination for those who love nature, good food and drink, history and a touch of adventure. The mild climate, mountainous landscape and hospitable population make Madeira perfect for active bon vivants. Madeira had long been on our bucket list. In December, it was finally time. Now we know for certain: we want to return here more often.
In this blog ...
- A dive into Madeira’s history
- The character of Madeira
- Funchal: City full of surprises
- The Levadas: Walking along the water
- Viewpoints: Madeira from above
- Spotting dolphins and whales
- The festivals of Madeira
- Madeira wine: A flavourful ending
- Practical information about Madeira
- The most fun tours and activities on Madeira
- Other topics you may be interested in
A dive into Madeira’s history
In 1419, the Portuguese seafarers João Gonçalves Zarco, Bartolomeu Perestrelo and Tristão Vaz Teixeira discovered the island by chance. When the Portuguese explorers reached the island, they encountered a densely forested and pristine island. The abundance of trees gave the island its name. For the name Madeira literally means “wood” or “forest” in Portuguese.
The original Laurisilva forest is one of the oldest forests in the world. The forest is even on the UNESCO World Heritage list. After the discovery of the island, large parts of the forest were felled to make room for agriculture and settlements. But fortunately, a large part has been preserved. Today, the forest is not only an important piece of nature. It is also a beautiful reminder of how Madeira originally looked.
In the 16th century, Madeira grew into an important trading centre. Especially the sugar industry brought wealth. This is reflected in the beautiful architecture, such as the Sé Cathedral in Funchal. Later, the famous Madeira wine became one of the most important export products. To this day, this wine is produced according to traditional methods.
Madeira has fewer than 300,000 inhabitants. Almost half of them live in the capital Funchal. Madeira has a status as an autonomous region of Portugal, just like the Azores.
The character of Madeira
Madeira is an island of contrasts. High mountain peaks, deep valleys, imposing cliffs and an azure blue ocean alternate. What makes Madeira truly unique is the abundance of flowers. Everywhere you look, you see bougainvillea, hibiscus and orchids. The beautiful bird of paradise flower is photogenic. No wonder Madeira is known as the flower island. The climate, always mild and pleasant, ensures that nature is at its most beautiful all year round. Thus, we saw plenty of colour on the island in mid-December. Quite a difference from the bare trees at home.
Madeira: Island of eternal spring
One of Madeira’s greatest assets is its climate. The island is not called the “island of eternal spring” for nothing. Thanks to its location in the Atlantic Ocean, the weather here is mild and pleasant all year round. In summer, temperatures hover around 25 degrees, while in winter it rarely gets colder than 17 degrees.
This makes Madeira an ideal destination, regardless of the season. In spring, the island bursts with flowers and you can enjoy the famous Flower Festival. In summer, the beaches and levada walks are an attraction. These walks along the many irrigation channels are famous and beloved. Autumn colours the vineyards golden yellow, perfect for wine lovers who love the golden colours. And in winter, Funchal radiates with beautiful Christmas lights and it’s wonderful to walk in the mountains.
Whether you want to escape cold winters or avoid the summer crowds elsewhere, Madeira always welcomes you with a pleasant breeze and warm sunshine.
Funchal: City full of surprises
Our journey begins in Funchal, the capital of Madeira. Here we immediately taste the rich culture and history. The city has a charming mix of old and new. Narrow cobbled streets lead us past colourful houses, historic buildings and modern boutiques. In December, the city is a sea of light: everywhere we encounter beautiful Christmas decorations. Every street is spectacularly lit and in the municipal park we admire one spectacular light creation after another. Christmas is well celebrated here!
Botanical garden
An absolute must is a visit to the botanical garden of Funchal. This garden, located high above the city, offers an impressive overview of the flora of Madeira and beyond. We walk around for hours and enjoy thousands of plants. The view over the city and the ocean is just as impressive. The area is so large that we can’t even see everything. The garden also has two beautiful museums. There we marvel at an impressive collection of minerals, among other things.
The garden is easily accessible by cable car. We do that on the way up, but not on the way back. We zoom down in the traditional wicker sled, called toboggan. The wooden and wicker sleds have long been part of Madeiran culture. The wine farmers used them to transport the harvest from the mountains to the villages. These toboggans are operated by men in traditional clothing and boots with thick rubber soles. They use these to brake and skilfully steer the sled through the winding and steep streets.
Sé cathedral
The Sé Cathedral, built in the 15th century, is a beautiful example of Manueline style, a Portuguese architectural style with Moorish influences. Inside, we admire the woodwork and the beautiful ceilings, made of local dragon’s blood wood. It is an oasis of tranquillity in the heart of the city. During the Advent period, the church is beautifully decorated. We are amazed by the immense nativity scene.
Food & Wine Tour
Funchal is also the place to enjoy the local cuisine. We join a food and wine tour. This way we discover the flavours of Madeira. Along the way, our enthusiastic guide Graça tells the most amusing anecdotes about Funchal, Madeira and of course the culinary specialities. In between, we taste the delicious Madeira wine, chocolate, the tastiest biscuits, poncha and various other dishes.
Mercado dos Lavradores
The Mercado dos Lavradores is a lively covered market that offers a perfect introduction to the tastes and smells of Madeira. Here we enjoy various fresh exotic fruits such as passion fruit, pineapple, mango and pitanga. The stalls with tropical flowers, including the famous bird of paradise flower, are a feast for the eyes.
At the fish market downstairs, fresh fish are brought in every morning, including the famous black scabbardfish. It’s fascinating to see the fish sellers at work. Besides food, you can also buy local products here, such as herbs, honey and traditional souvenirs. It’s a perfect place to soak up the atmosphere of Madeira and perhaps take home some goodies.
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The covered market is open daily. But if you have the chance, it’s best to visit the Mercado dos Lavradores on Friday or Saturday morning. Then the market is even more extensive. |
The Levadas: Walking along the water
Madeira has a unique network of irrigation channels, the so-called levadas. These were built in the 16th century to bring water from the wet north coast to the drier south coast. They are still in use and have three functions: irrigation of agricultural land, providing drinking water for the inhabitants and generating electricity via hydroelectric power stations. Along these levadas run narrow paths. They lead hikers through spectacular landscapes with beautiful views.
Levada do Rei
One of the most beautiful walks is the Levada do Rei. This route of about 11 kilometres (there and back) takes us through the Laurisilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. We walk along waterfalls, babbling brooks, through caves and past cave dwellings to finally arrive at the source where the water springs. Along the way, we regularly have views of the mountainous surroundings. Furthermore, the flora in this unique forest stands out. Many special plants, ferns and mosses show themselves at their best. Thanks to Ruben, the friendly guide from Adventure Kingdom, we learn a lot about the forest.
Other levadas
The PR1 walk from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo is a breathtaking trek along rugged mountain ridges and spectacular views. On this walk, you discover Madeira’s highest peaks during this unforgettable but adventurous hike. But there are many more. An overview can be found on the Madeira website.
Viewpoints: Madeira from above
The views on Madeira are legendary. With a jeep tour across the island, we discover many miradouros, places where we can admire the beauty of the landscape.
Miradouro do Guindaste
This viewpoint on the north coast offers a panoramic view of the rugged cliffs and the ocean. A favourite spot for photographers. Although it’s not so clear during our visit, we can even see the island of Porto Santo. This viewpoint is not far from the town of Faial.
Cabo Girão
Cabo Girão is one of the highest cliffs in Europe. From a glass skywalk, we have a literally dizzying view of the ocean and the coastline. We stand about 580 metres above the sea. We look out over gigantic cliffs with lush vegetation. The alternation between all the green colour shades in the landscape is unsurpassed.
Câmara de Lobos
The fishing village of Câmara de Lobos is not only a picturesque place, but also offers great viewpoints. From the surrounding hills, we look out over the bay, where brightly coloured fishing boats bob.
Eira do Serrado
Eira do Serrado is another beautiful viewpoint, not far from Funchal. It offers us a panoramic view that we wouldn’t have wanted to miss. The wisps of mist that pass by make the atmosphere even more special. Surrounded by imposing mountains, we look out over the valley. In the distance, we can make out the picturesque village of Curral das Freiras. This charming village, nestled in the valley, seems like a hidden world. Curral das Freiras literally means “nuns’ pen” in Portuguese. The village owes its name to a historical event: in the 16th century, nuns from the Santa Clara convent in Funchal fled to this remote valley to hide from pirates. The remote location and surrounding mountains offered them protection. Nowadays, the village is famous for its unique location and chestnut dishes.
Spotting dolphins and whales
The ocean around Madeira is a paradise for sea animals. During a boat trip, you can spot 28 different species of dolphins. The chance of seeing these animals is high all year round. Some organisations even guarantee seeing dolphins. Whales also occur in this region. The chance of seeing them is smaller, but certainly present. The water is crystal clear, which makes spotting extra easy. Unfortunately, we couldn’t experience this ourselves. The stormy wind made it impossible to sail out.
The festivals of Madeira
Madeira celebrates life with colourful festivals. Carnival in February is an exuberant spectacle full of dance and music. In April and May, the island is a sea of flowers during the Flower Festival. The Atlantic Festival, full of firework shows, takes place in June. In September, everything revolves around Madeira wine at the festival of the same name. And in December, Funchal sparkles with one of the most beautiful Christmas illuminations in Europe. In that month, Madeira celebrates the festival of light and the arrival of the new year exuberantly. This is, by the way, a small selection of the many festive periods the island knows. If you want, you can experience a festival on Madeira every month. Each festival lets you experience the typical culture and hospitality of Madeira in a unique way.
Madeira wine: A flavourful ending
A trip to Madeira is not complete without a visit to a vineyard. Quinta do Barbusano, in the north of the island, is recommended. Here we learn all about the production process and taste the different types of Madeira wine, from dry to sweet. The vineyard is located in a beautiful location with views of the mountains and the ocean. It’s the perfect place to end our trip to Madeira with a good glass of wine. We also enjoy espetada here: large pieces of beef, marinated in garlic and bay leaf, roasted on a skewer over an open fire. Combined with a delicious red wine and the spectacular view, it’s a pleasure to visit Quinta do Barbusano.
Madeira offers everything that makes a trip unforgettable: nature, culture, history and culinary surprises. Whether you want to hike, relax or discover local traditions, the island has something for everyone. One thing is certain: Madeira leaves a lasting impression. That’s why we’ll be publishing several more blogs about this beautiful island in the coming period.
Practical information about Madeira
Madeira is a Portuguese archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, approximately 1,000 kilometres southwest of mainland Portugal and 600 kilometres west of Morocco. The island is situated at the latitude of North Africa, resulting in a mild and subtropical climate. Madeira consists of the main island of Madeira itself, the smaller island of Porto Santo, and a few uninhabited islands. Thanks to its unique location, Madeira is a perfect destination for nature lovers, hikers, and sun worshippers.
There are various ways to explore Madeira, depending on your preferences and plans. One of the most popular options is hiring a car. With a car, you can easily reach the mountains, coastal roads, and villages. This gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace. Do keep in mind that the roads in Madeira are often narrow, winding, and steep, especially in the mountains.
Another option is using public transport. There are buses that connect the main cities and villages, such as Funchal, Câmara de Lobos, and Santana. The buses run less frequently to remote areas, but they are an affordable way to travel around.
For short distances or excursions in and around Funchal, you can take taxis or use organised tours. Various organisations offer jeep tours around the island, for example.
Madeira is a fantastic destination all year round thanks to its mild, subtropical climate. Temperatures usually vary between 16 and 25 degrees Celsius, making it never too cold or too hot. However, there are differences depending on what you want to do.
For hikers and nature lovers, spring and early summer (April to June) are ideal. This is when nature is in bloom and the island transforms into a colourful paradise. The famous flower festival takes place in May, which is a special experience.
If you want to enjoy the sun and swim, the summer months (July to September) are perfect. The sea has pleasant temperatures then, and the chance of rain is small.
In autumn and winter, Madeira is popular among people who want to escape the cold, grey days in our own country. It's quieter on the island then, and you can still enjoy a mild climate. This time is ideal for making beautiful hikes, such as one of the many levada walks. December is also a lovely period, thanks to the festive Christmas lights and the spectacular fireworks during New Year's Eve in Funchal.
How many days you need depends on what you want to see and do. If you only want to visit the highlights, you can get a good impression of the island in four to five days. Think of Funchal, the famous levada walks, the rugged east at Ponta de São Lourenço, and the green interior with the mountains Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo.
If you want more time to really explore the island and discover the less-known spots, a stay of seven to ten days is ideal. This way, you can leisurely visit the quiet north, coastal villages like Porto Moniz, and the smaller island of Porto Santo. You'll also have time to enjoy activities such as dolphin spotting, wine tasting, or relaxing in the natural swimming pools.
If you're an avid hiker and want to cover as many levada paths as possible, you can stay even longer. Madeira has so much to offer that you won't easily get bored.
Madeira is a relatively small island, but it has an impressively varied landscape. The main island of Madeira is about 57 kilometres long and 22 kilometres wide. In total, it covers an area of about 740 square kilometres.
Despite its modest size, Madeira feels much larger. This is due to the steep mountains, deep valleys, and winding roads that lead you everywhere. The highest point is Pico Ruivo, with a height of 1,862 metres. Even though you can cross the island from east to west in a few hours, you'll find that there's something to discover everywhere: from rugged cliffs and tropical gardens to picturesque villages and levada paths.
Madeira is known for its breathtaking nature, charming villages, and unique activities. Here are the highlights you shouldn't miss:
- Funchal. The atmospheric capital, with attractions such as the colourful Mercado dos Lavradores, the beautiful botanical gardens, and the historic Zona Velha district. A ride with the cable car to Monte and the famous toboggan ride with wicker sleds are not to be missed here.
- Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo. Take a walk between these mountain peaks for spectacular views of the clouds, deep valleys, and mountain landscape. This is one of the most beautiful hiking routes on the island.
- Levada walks. Explore the unique irrigation channels that wind through nature. Recommendations are the Levada do Rei, Levada das 25 Fontes, and the Levada do Caldeirão Verde.
- Cabo Girão. Stand on the glass skywalk of one of the highest cliffs in Europe and enjoy the view over the Atlantic Ocean.
- Ponta de São Lourenço. Discover the rugged and dry eastern point of Madeira, with impressive cliffs and panoramic views.
- Porto Moniz. Relax in the natural swimming pools of this picturesque village on the north coast, formed by volcanic rock.
- Santana. Visit the iconic traditional houses with thatched roofs in this charming village.
- Water transport. Take a boat trip to spot dolphins and whales, an unforgettable experience in the crystal-clear waters around the island.
- Madeira wine. Taste the famous fortified wine in one of the wine houses or museums, and learn more about the centuries-old tradition.
With these highlights, you'll get a complete picture of what makes Madeira so unique: a combination of spectacular nature, culture, and relaxation.
The cuisine of Madeira is full of flavour, inspired by local ingredients and traditions. Here are a few dishes you absolutely must try:
- Espetada. Large pieces of beef, marinated in garlic and bay leaf, roasted on a skewer over an open fire. This dish is often served with crispy peasant bread (Bolo do Caco).
- Bolo do Caco. A flat, round bread made from sweet potato, served with garlic butter. It's a popular snack or side dish.
- Espada com Banana. A unique combination of black scabbardfish and banana. This dish might sound strange, but the soft fish and sweet banana form a delicious combination.
- Milho Frito. Fried polenta cubes, often served as a side dish with meat dishes.
- Lapas. Grilled limpets, served with garlic butter and lemon. This dish is a must for seafood lovers.
- Queijadas da Madeira. Small, sweet tarts with a creamy filling, perfect as a dessert or with coffee.
Besides the dishes, Madeira also has a number of typical drinks:
- Madeira wine. The world-famous fortified wine that comes in different styles, from dry to sweet. The production process is unique and gives the wine a rich, complex taste.
- Poncha. A traditional cocktail made from aguardente (sugar cane brandy), honey, sugar, and lemon juice. It's a local favourite and is often stirred by hand with a 'caralhinho' (wooden spoon).
- Coral beer. The local beer of Madeira, light and refreshing. Perfect for a warm day or with a plate of espetada.
With these culinary discoveries, you'll taste the flavours of Madeira and experience the island culture in a unique way.
Madeira offers a range of culinary experiences, from refined cuisines in Funchal to hidden gems in the countryside. Here are some special restaurants you shouldn't miss:
In Funchal
- Il Vivaldi. An elegant restaurant that combines traditional Portuguese flavours with a modern twist. Perfect for a luxury dinner with excellent wines. Located in a stately mansion.
- Kampo. A trendy restaurant where the focus is on high-quality ingredients and creative presentation. The open kitchen offers a unique view of the preparation of your meal.
- Forte Sao Tiago. Located in a historic fort overlooking the sea. This restaurant serves Mediterranean dishes with a touch of Madeiran flair.
- Chalet Vicente. An atmospheric restaurant with a charming wooden chalet style, where you can enjoy traditional Madeiran dishes and excellent service.
- Nini Design Centre. Here you can enjoy refined dishes in a modern design centre overlooking the bay of Funchal. A unique experience where art and gastronomy come together.
Outside Funchal
- Quinta do Barbusano (São Vicente). Located among the vineyards in the north of the island, this restaurant offers not only a beautiful view but also dishes that perfectly match local wines.
- Quinta do Furão (Santana). This restaurant, part of a charming hotel, serves authentic dishes with local ingredients, with a breathtaking view of the cliffs and the ocean.
Madeira has a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels and large resorts to charming boutique hotels. Here are some recommendations:
Hotels in Funchal
- Porto Mare Hotel. A beautiful resort in Funchal with spacious rooms, tropical gardens, multiple swimming pools, and excellent restaurants. The hotel also offers a fantastic view of the ocean and is a favourite among couples and families.
- Hotel Cajú. A hip boutique hotel in the centre of Funchal, with a sleek and modern design. Ideal for those who like a stylish and central place to stay.
- Barceló Funchal Oldtown. This new hotel is located in the old town of Funchal, with modern rooms, a rooftop pool, and a restaurant with sea views. Perfect for those who want to combine culture and relaxation.
- Castanheiro Boutique Hotel. An elegant and charming hotel in the historic centre of Funchal. The hotel has a beautiful rooftop terrace with a pool and offers excellent service.
- Belmond Reid's Palace. This iconic luxury hotel is an institution on Madeira. It's located on a cliff with a spectacular view over the ocean and offers unparalleled service, a spa, and refined gastronomy. A stay here is pure indulgence. It's no wonder that guests like Winston Churchill and Empress Sissi of Austria stayed here.
Hotels outside Funchal
- Quinta do Furao (Santana). This charming hotel is located on a cliff with breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding mountains. Guests appreciate the quiet atmosphere and the excellent restaurant.
- Hotel Solar de Boaventura (Boaventura). An intimate hotel in the green north of Madeira. Perfect for those who love peace and nature. The hotel has a traditional atmosphere and a cosy garden.
- Aqua Natura Bay (Porto Moniz). A modern hotel overlooking the natural swimming pools of Porto Moniz. Guests praise the comfortable rooms and friendly staff.
- Estalagem da Ponta do Sol (Ponta do Sol). This design hotel is located on a cliff and offers a beautiful sea view. The minimalist interior and infinity pool make it a popular choice for those seeking tranquillity.
- Pestana Churchill Bay (Câmara de Lobos). This hotel is located at the charming harbour of Câmara de Lobos. It combines modern decor with traditional elements and offers a beautiful view of the bay.
These hotels offer something for every type of traveller, whether you're looking for luxury, nature, or a charming boutique experience.
We visited Madeira at the invitation of Interface Tourism Group and Madeira Promotion Bureau. We have independently and objectively compiled the content of the blog based on our own impressions.
The most fun tours and activities on Madeira
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