Funchal
Funchal, lying on Madeira’s south coast, is the island’s capital and location of the majority of hotels, museums and historic buildings. Old streets are lined with beautiful houses perched on low cliffs and backed by green terraced mountains. Try the dry toboggan ride to Funchal starting at Monte, also known for the sweet profusion of flowers from its superb gardens. Monte Palace Tropical Garden hosts a selection of 100,000 flower species from all over the world and lakes filled with Koi Carp from China and Japan. 

Activities: Excursion to Monte Palace Tropical Garden – Individual walks from Funchal – Day trip to Porto Santo.

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Porto Moniz & Sao Vicente
The North of the island is an area of rugged beauty covered by green forests, terraced vineyards and small-cultivated fields. One of the most spectacular views is from Sao Vicente to Porto Moniz, a narrow road carved into sheer cliffs passing through tunnels and countless waterfalls. Remember to take a swim in the natural sea pools carved from the volcanic rock at Porto Moniz.

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Santana
Two thirds of Madeira is a protected natural park, the main body lying in the region of Santana. This unpolluted environment is perfect for walking trails, affording some stunning viewpoints. Ruivo, the highest point (1,862m) is one of the most challenging walks due to its narrow trail with sheer drops on either side – not for the faint hearted! A visit to the town of Santana is recommended for its typical Madeiran thatched houses, triangular in shape and with brightly painted roofs. 

Activities:  Individual walks.

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Calheta, Ponta do Sol, Ribeira Brava & Camara de Lobos
Deep ravines, winding roads, cultivated fields falling into the sea and an abundance of Mediterranean and tropical plants are typical features of southern Madeira. The charming fishing village of Camara de Lobos, a favourite spot of Winston Churchill is one of the few places on the island which has remained untouched by the passing of time. Further west is the scenic viewpoint of Cabo Girao, famed as Europe’s second highest sea cliff (more than 500 metres above sea level) and the coastal town of Calheta immersed amongst flourishing vineyards and banana plantations. The interior is a region of high peaks and deep ravines covered in lush green vegetation. The Serra de Agua mountain range offers nature trails for walkers of all competence levels. 

Activities: Individual walks.

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Santa Cruz & Machico
Travel through enchanting valleys of small houses perched on the edge of cliffs surrounded with tiny cultivated vineyards. The eastern side of Madeira has a rugged natural beauty - much like the north of the island. Professional and amateur golfers alike will be enchanted by the course at Santo da Serra, the location of the Madeira Open. This 27-hole course is reputed to be one of the most beautiful mountain golf courses in Europe with breathtaking views over Ponta de Sao Lourenco. The village of Camacha, the centre of the wickerwork industry, is worthy of a visit for last minute souvenirs before driving to Santa Cruz airport for the flight home. 

Activities: Golf courses on Madeira.

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Porto Santo
The island of Porto Santo is famed for its fabulous 7km of sandy beaches. The climate is warm year round with a mean temperature of 19°C and the sea is clear and calm along its shores. The emphasis, when holidaying on Porto Santo, is to relax and enjoy the views. The island offers an ideal two-centre destination with Madeira – please telephone us for details. 

Activities :  The Golden Island.

 

The Facts

Language: Portuguese, but English is widely spoken.

Currency: Euro (GBP£1 = approx. 1.45 Euros)

Local time: Same time as UK (GMT)

Area: 794 sq. km / 307 sq. miles

Length:  57km / 36 miles

Width: 22km / 14 miles

Population: 244,286

Capital: Funchal

Electricity: 220 Volts (2 pin plug)

Visa: A visa is not required for UK or EU citizens.

Health: No vaccinations are required for entry in to Madeira. However, it is recommended that all travellers obtain the standard triple typhoid/ tetanus/polio inoculation prior to any departure abroad. 

 

Porto Santo

Location: 40km north east of Madeira

Length: 12km / 8 miles

Width: 7km / 4 miles

Flight to Madeira: 20 minutes

Boat to Madeira: 2.5 hours