Madeira
Boasting a sub-tropical climate, an abundance of natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage, Madeira is an irresistible holiday destination for discerning holidaymakers.
Before you even step foot on the island, you will be impressed by its breathtaking beauty; sheer cliffs, deep ravines and ragged mountain peaks soaring to over 1800 metres, which hint at the island's volcanic origins.
Famously referred to as 'The Floating Garden' of the Atlantic, Madeira's rich botanical heritage is everywhere, from the many public gardens and colourful displays in and around the capital, Funchal, to the island's luxuriant interior.
In the countryside, you have the opportunity to see sugar and banana plantations, and vineyards that produce the famous Madeira wine, or walk along the many paths or 'levadas' constructed beside the canals that irrigate the mountain terraces.
The charming, hospitable people offer a delightful welcome across the island, and in many of the inland villages you can see the local traditions still very much alive, such as embroidery and wickerwork making.
Dining out
In addition to the wide range of international cuisine available from the hotels, it is worth noting that eating out in the many local restaurants serving traditional Madeiran dishes can be a real treat! We recommend you try 'espetada' (skewered beef) or 'caldeirada'(fish soup) among many others. These, combined with the profusion of locally grown fruit and vegetables and a glass or two of some of the many outstanding Portuguese wines, are sure to delight.
Shopping
There is the greatest variety of shopping in Funchal, from familiar brand names in the shopping centres to the smaller shops selling locally produced items at attractive prices. A visit to one of the villages, such as Camacha, will give you the opportunity to see local handicrafts still being produced in traditional ways. Embroidery is exquisite and internationally acclaimed; whilst tapestry, lacemaking and handicrafts such as wicker working make wonderful souvenirs.
Funchal
Located on the south coast with a steep mountain backdrop, Funchal's 16th century settlers found the perfect natural harbour to resupply and repair their ships on the trade route to the Indies. With its blend of renaissance architecture, colonial mansions, old squares and cobbled streets, Funchal is a delight to explore. There are museums and art galleries, pretty churches and forts and right in the heart of the city you can marvel at the baroque architecture of the 15th century Se Cathedral.
The main market in Funchal, Mercado dos Lavradores, is well worth a visit. Selling locally grown produce and handicrafts, it maintains a nostalgic atmosphere enhanced by the flower sellers wearing traditional costume.
Many of our featured hotels and apartments are located to the west, a short distance from Funchal city centre around the Lido area with its shops, cafes and restaurants. This is the perfect place to sit and watch the world go by!
Monte to Funchal toboggan run
No visit to Madeira would be complete without taking the cable car to Monte for the panoramic views at the top. Then, after a glass of Poncha (a drink made with sugar cane rum, honey, lemon juice and sugar), take one of the famous 'toboggans' along flower lined streets, back down to Funchal. These are wicker baskets guided by two traditionally dressed conductors.
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