Madeira
Madeira Introduction
Madeira is a Portuguese island situated in the north Atlantic. It is a very mountainous volcanic island which last erupted 6,500 years ago. It lies in the waters of the gulf stream giving it warm winters and comfortable summers making it an ideal holiday destination. Funchal is Madeira’s thriving capital city. It is noted for its splendid array of subtropical flowers and plants which give a truly wonderful display in spring.
Why Go To Madeira?
Madeira has some spectacular scenery with steep cliffs rising up immediately from the shore. Terraced gardens and cultivated areas with their brightly coloured blooms making a spectacular contrast with the lush vegetation. There are good sporting facilities including golf and water sports. Madeira is very popular with hikers who can walk along the irrigation system of mini canals which took the water from the wetter north to the dry south of the island. The towns of Madeira are perfect for sightseeing with their cobbled streets and old buildings covered with bougainvillea and other more exotic plants. Madeira is in fact a feast for the senses.
Who Is Madeira Popular With?
Although Madeira has no natural sandy beaches, there are some man made beaches where children can enjoy the sand. The sun in this area is less harsh than in the Mediterranean and is safer for children’s skin.
Those who are looking for an active holiday in stunning scenery need look no further as there are a wide variety of activities on offer on both land and sea.
When To Go To Madeira
Madeira is the perfect place to enjoy the sun at any time of year. With no great extremes of weather, summers remain comfortable and winters are pleasantly warm.
Madeira - The Place
Although Madeira is a small island it has an enormous amount to offer with its spectacular landscapes, picturesque villages and crystal clear waters. Towns with beautiful old buildings and monuments situated in cobbled streets, parks with their glorious flowers all contribute to the island of Madeira’s splendour.
The very popular Lido Promenade found in Funchal, the capital, is lined with palms and sub tropical plants. Here you will find sea water swimming pools, bars, pavement cafes and restaurants. The Lido is the perfect place to watch the magnificent sunsets so famous in Madeira.
The Aqua Park in Santa Cruz is a fairly new and exciting attraction enjoyed by both children and adults.
Hiking along the levadas is also popular among more energetic travellers. The mini canals lead through the most amazing scenery that can not be experienced by any other means.
Madeira has excellent conditions for surfing, particularly in the winter months.
The island also offers big game fishing and dolphin and whale watching.
Madeira Culture
Madeira is host to many celebrations. Being a Roman Catholic country many of the festivals revolve around the churches calendar with patron saints days being particularly important. Wine festivals are also very popular.
Although embroidery is an old craft it has not died out and many fine examples of it can still be found today.
Madeira Nightlife
Whilst the nightlife in Madeira is low-key there are many cafes, bars, pubs and restaurants. There are also some nightclubs and discos that stay open until four in the morning on Fridays and Saturdays for who like to party.
Many hotels offer themed evenings which are open to the public.
For those who like a flutter there is also a casino.
Madeira is an ideal place for moseying along its cobbled streets with their fine array of gift shops, craft shops and boutiques. For the ultimate shopping experience visit Santa Quiteria in Fuchal which has a huge number of stores as well as cafes, restaurants and cinemas. It even has bowling and mini-golf available.
Madeira Eating
As expected fish dishes abound in Madeira and eating out can be quite cheap with fish being a firm favourite. There are restaurants to suit all tastes and pockets.
Try a 'nikita' made from beer, ice cream and pineapple and don’t forget the Madeira cake.
Local Madeira Customs
Madeira is a Roman Catholic country and many of its festivals are connected with the church. When visiting churches in rural areas, shoulders and legs should be covered, so as not to give offence.