Why come to Madeira
Madeira is a Portuguese island off the coast of northwest Africa. If you were to draw a line from Morocco straight out to sea you would find the archipelago which consists of 4 islands.
Madeira has a glorious climate and social atmosphere, while offering exceptional value for money. Madeira is varied and exciting, and a holiday on the island can be as exciting or relaxing as you choose it to be.
North of the Canary islands you will find that the warm, mild subtropical climate throughout the year, allows visitors to enjoying a bit of an escape from the cold. I would suggest that if you were travelling there in ‘winter’ time pack summer wear (perhaps a few jumpers for the cooler evenings just in case) because it can get really warm! The main island of Madeira is lush and green with rugged terrain and offers excellent outdoor activities to explore such as hiking and cycling.
I would recommend hiring a car and travelling around the island to get a real appreciation for the landscape because its pretty incredible. I remember when my husband was going to Madeira for the first time he was a little bit cynical. Being from the travel industry he had had some experience of promoting packages to Madeira which he thought was mainly for the older generation however I think that he was really surprised by incredible options one had to do whilst staying on this beautiful island. The first thing he said to me as we drove in between the mountains (which is literally everywhere) with waterfalls streaming down the edges was how much it reminded him of Jamaica! Oh yes people, this island is a little bit like Jamaica or Hawaii with its incredibly beautiful landscape!
Madeira island has many gorgeous beaches however as this is a volcanic island (dormant I may add) many of them are pebble beaches. In saying this, we are fortunate enough to have 2 sandy beaches (sand imported from the African dessert) less than a 5 minute drive away from De Casa Villa!
If you are looking for a place that has a lot of natural beauty, places to explore in various ways with lots of treasures that will unfold on your journey, then this Portuguese island will not disappoint and it truly is a must see. Very few people that come here once, never return.
Having been voted European’s Leading Island of the year Destination 2019 and Best European Island of the year 2018, it has beaten a number of stunning locations because of its natural beauty, subtropical climate and the incredible hikes it has to offer.
Funchal
Funchal is the capital city of Portugal's Madeira archipelago. It's backed by hills, and known for its harbor, gardens and Madeira wine cellars. The centuries-old Funchal Cathedral, which mixes Gothic and Romanesque styles, is notable for its carved wooden ceiling. Fronting the harbor is the São Tiago Fortress, built in the 1600s. It now houses the Contemporary Art Museum, with a large collection of Portuguese works.
Porto da Cruz
Once you arrive you'll probably think there's nothing much to do around here. Life seems to have stopped or only to be moving very slowly in this place. But, the attractions of this small parish are hidden and you'll have to take a closer look to find them. One of them is the old sugar cane factory, which is still operating the same way, as it was when it started with the sugar production in 1927. It boasts a 26 meter tall tower and when it's working you might even see steam coming out!
Things to do...
Madeira island caters for all traveller’s needs, if its cuisine you love then you will have lots to choose from (by the way the meat and fish are amazing!). If you love to meander along the promenade’s stopping at cafe's, enjoying coffees and watching people or nature then this could certainly be your spot. Perhaps you are looking for something a bit more adventurous where being active is something that you love then you will be spoilt for choice:
• Levada walking
• Mountain hiking
• Canyoning
• Sailing
• Scuba diving and big game fishing
• Dolphin and whale watching
• Surfing and SUP (Stand up paddleboarding)
• Paragliding
List of walks:
Do not be deceived by what you think you know of the island, there truly is so much to uncover and it would be well worth having a look at the scheduled celebrations and festivals that take place around the island at different times of the year as they are a good way to immerse yourself into the culture and get a taste of the island life by attending any of the events. Here are a list of them for the coming months:
