MADEIRA


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A stunning island renowned for elegance and refinement, with beautiful surroundings and a pleasant climate year round.

Explore Madeira

Natural, green and spectacular, this small piece of Portugal is swept by the Gulf Stream and delightful sub-tropical climate, making its lush and verdant scenery a haven for walkers and ramblers. Thousands of varieties or orchids, bougainvillea, jasmine and hibiscus carpet tumbling hillsides, providing a stunning backdrop for relaxing and absorbing the peaceful and laid back atmosphere almost unique to Madeira.

Getting Around
Transport links are good, especially around Funchal, hop on a bus or take a taxi to see the sights.

Eating and Drinking
There is a wide selection of restaurants to choose from, cuisine being typically Mediterranean. The traditional meal dish is Espetada, whilst those who like fish should try the famous Espada. Accompany the meal with a glass of Madeiran wine.

Local interest and Culture
Explore the beautiful city of Funchal with its array of cathedrals, churches and galleries. Take a trip to Camara de Lobos which was put on the map by Winston Churchill or visit Santana which is best known for its colourful "A" shaped thatched cottages. The famous wine lodges in Funchal are also definitely worth a visit.

Beaches
Whilst Madeira's clear warm waters are superb for swimming and scuba diving, the nearest beach is at Porto Santo, a tiny island just off Madeira's north east coast where peace and tranquillity are guaranteed.

Fun for the children
More suited for older children, with the Lido in Funchal a popular choice to spend a day.

Highlights

Five must sees: The Botanical Gardens, A walk along one of the Levadas, Nuns Valley, A cable car ride up to Monte for some stunning views, the natural pools.

Great Views: Madeira has fascinating landscapes, with high mountains crossed by deep valleys and brightly coloured vegetation. A good vantage point is at Pico do Arieiro.

Memorable moments: A cable car ride at sunset.

Destination treasures: Camara de Lobos, Winston Churchill painted this village and Monte, the beautiful village where an Austrian emperor is buried.

Travel tips: Unwind, take in the scenery, Madeira is one of the oldest and most traditional tourist destinations.

Practicalities

Cost of living: Eating out on a budget costs 15 Euros, mid-range 23 Euros, and at the top end expect to be 80 Euros. Half a bottle of wine costs 5 Euros, coffee 0.75 Euros, pint of beer 1 Euro and ice-cream 1.75 Euros. Petrol costs 0.90 Euros per litre. Prices are approximate and may change.

Portuguese National Tourist Office: 22-25A Sackville Street, London, W1X 2LY. Tel: 0207 494 1441. Website www.portugalinsite.pt

Activities
A popular sport on the island is golf and there are two 18 hole golf courses. As a result of its position and landscape, Madeira is a great choice for walkers and ramblers with a number of guided scenic walks through the beautiful landscapes.

Recommended Reading

Landscapes of Madeira by John and Pat Underwood
The Mini Rough Guide to Madeira by Matthew Hancock
Walking in Madeira by Paddy Dillon.