Description
Madeira, the “floating garden” or the “pearl of the Atlantic”, is a unique sub-tropical paradise in the Atlantic Ocean with dramatic and breathtaking scenery (57km long/22 km wide).
Its mild climate, average temperatures of 25ºC in the summer and 17ºC in the winter, make it the ideal island for a relaxing or active break at any time of the year. Madeira’s lush vegetation hides the fascinating indigenous Laurel Forest, a UNESCO’s Nature World Heritage Site since 1999.
Diving, surfing, canyoning, walking in the mountains or by the sea, are just some of the possible activities to enjoy on this island. Swimming in the ocean or in natural rock pools, strolling through colorful gardens, tasting the well-known Madeira fortified Wine and trying the traditional gastronomy will fulfill your senses and create a happy state of mind.
Funchal, the capital city and its bay, where architecture and nature are charmingly combined, invites you for a delightful stroll, discovering the narrow traffic-free streets paved with black and white mosaics and lined by jacaranda trees. In the old town, the Farmer’s Market offers you a display of the great variety of local flowers, fruit and vegetables, the result of Madeira’s rich volcanic soil.
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Madeira, car collection at Madeira's airport and accommodation at selected hotel for 5 nights.
Day 2
Day to Explore Funchal (if you wish a private tour, please consult us).
Day 3
Day to Visit Madeira's East coast.
Day 4
Leisure day, to relax on the hotel facilities or other activities (Our suggestion: visit the Island of Porto Santo on the local ferry boat; or walk through the Levadas (Water canals).
Day 5
Day to Explore Madeira's West coast.
Day 6
Day to review trip and add last minute visits to places such as museums and points of interest that are unique to Funchal and Madeira in general. Maybe some shopping?
Day 7
Hotel Check-out and departure to Funchal Airport. Car delivery at the Airport.
Places you will visit
Funchal: This is the capital of Madeira, famous for the botanical gardens everywhere in the city! If you wish to have a real experience we suggest you to go to the Market of Lavradores, where the locals sell the daily fresh and delicious products.
Monte: Not too far from Funchal center, you'll find Monte with beautiful views over the Funchal Bay. We suggest you a visit to the Church of Our Lady of Monte, and to take the chance to use the most famous transport of the Island - The Toboggan.
Curral das Freiras: Is what we call truly hidden part of Madeira. The name means "Nuns' Valley" and here you'll find a crater showing obvious evidences of the volcanic presence in the island of Madeira. Do not miss the local liquor.
East Madeira: On the East of Madeira you will find the most remote areas of the island that we suggest you to visit: Camacha, famous as the wicker work village; The Pico do Arieiro, one of the highest points of the island; Ribeiro Frio to visit the curious trout hatchery. Santana Village, with its traditional thatched roofed cottages; Porto da Cruz and Portela, whit a spectacular view over the town of Machico.
West Madeira: On the west side we will suggest you to visit the small fishing village of Câmara de Lobos; The most famous Cape of Madeira: the Cabo Girão, the highest promontory in Europe; Ribeira Brava a seaside village; Serra de Água and Encumeada where you can see both the North and the South coast; Porto Moniz famous for its natural pools; Paúl da Serra, a 1400m high plateau.
