TOP 10 PLACES IN MADEIRA

Madeira is a Portuguese island region located in the Atlantic Ocean, about 1,000 km southwest of Lisbon. This volcanic island is known for its breathtaking natural scenery, mild subtropical climate and rich culture.

Madeira is often called the "pearl of the Atlantic" for its combination of beautiful nature, history and the hospitality of the locals. Due to the mild climate that prevails here all year round, Madeira is also nicknamed "the island of eternal spring".

Madeira is known as the "island of eternal spring"

The capital is Funchal, which is the dynamic centre of the island with historical monuments, a harbour and beautiful botanical gardens. Almost half of Madeira's population lives here.

Madeira offers many wonderful places to visit. Here are some of the most interesting sites.

1. LEVADAS

Levadas are one of the most distinctive features of Madeira and have a deep cultural, historical and practical value. They are unique irrigation canals that were built on the island as early as the 16th century to bring water from mountainous areas to the fertile fields at lower altitudes where there is less rainfall.

They have their roots in the Portuguese colonisation of Madeira, when it was necessary to provide water for agriculture, especially for sugar cane and later for other crops such as bananas and vines. Due to the island's mountainous terrain, it was not easy to distribute water, so these long canals were built to bring water from the north (where it rains more) to the south and west of the island.

Today, they serve not only for irrigation but also as popular hiking trails. Madeira has more than 2 000 kilometres of these canals and narrow paths run along them, allowing hikers to walk through a landscape that would otherwise be difficult to access. Hikers can walk through wild forests, mountains, along steep cliffs and through tunnels.

LEVADA DAS 25 FONTES

LEVADA CALDEIRAO VERDE

LEVADA DOS BALCOES

LEVADA DO MOINHO

LEVADA DO RISCO

2. FANAL

Fanal is one of the most beautiful and mystical places in Madeira. It is located in the north-west of the island in the Paul da Serra area, the only major plateau in Madeira. Fanal is best known for its ancient laurel forest (Laurisilva), a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It is good to arrive early in the morning, when the fog hovers over the place and the forest takes on a fairy-tale feel

These are the remains of an ancient subtropical forest that once covered large parts of Europe. This kind of forest is made up of laurel trees, which create a magical atmosphere thanks to their twisted branches and dense growth. The trees are often covered in moss, and the fog that often occurs in this area gives the whole place a mysterious and fairy-tale appearance. It is an ideal location for photographers who want to capture atmospheric scenes.

It's good to arrive early in the morning when the mist hovers over the place, giving the forest a fairy-tale feel. This place is a photographer's paradise.

As Fanal is located at a higher altitude, it can be cooler and wetter than other parts of the island. It is advisable to bring warmer clothing and suitable hiking shoes, especially if you are going hiking.

3. PICO DO RUIVO

Pico do Ruivo is the highest mountain on the island of Madeira. At 1,862 metres above sea level, it is the third highest mountain in Portugal. The peak is located in the central part of the island and is accessible via several hiking trails.

ACCESS FROM ACHADA TO TEIXEIRA

This is the shortest and easiest trail to the top of Pico do Ruivo. The trail is approximately 3 km one way and the climb is not too difficult. The hike starts at the Achada do Teixeira car park, from where the trail leads to the Casa de Abrigo do Pico Ruivo mountain hut, which is just below the summit. The trail is also suitable for families with children.

ACCESS FROM PICO DO ARIEIRO (OVER THE RIDGES)

This approach is much more challenging and is one of the most beautiful and famous hiking trails in Madeira. The trail is about 7 km long in one direction and goes over several mountain ridges and valleys. Steep ascents and descents are to be expected, and the path is quite narrow in places. You will also encounter several tunnels along the way, so it is a good idea to have a torch with you. The hike usually takes 3 to 4 hours one way

4. PICO DO ARIEIRO

Pico do Arieiro is one of the most popular destinations for tourists who want to enjoy breathtaking views and unforgettable mountain hikes. At 1,818 metres above sea level, it is the third highest mountain in Madeira.

The peak is easily accessible by car and is one of the few places at this altitude that can be reached without a long climb. From the top of the Pico do Arieiro you have an amazing view of the mountain ranges and valleys of Madeira. On clear days you can also see Pico Ruivo and the sea on the horizon. In the mornings and evenings, this is a popular spot because of the spectacular sunrises and sunsets, often accompanied by a sea of clouds rolling in below.

5. FUNCHAL

Funchal is the capital of Madeira and one of the most beautiful and lively cities in Portugal. It is located on the southern coast of the island and is famous for its picturesque location between the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean. Funchal is a fascinating mix of history, culture, nature and modern city life.

Funchal was founded in the 15th century soon after the discovery of Madeira by Portuguese seafarers. The city's name comes from the Portuguese word "funcho", meaning fennel, a plant that grew abundantly in the area when the first settlers arrived. The town quickly became an important commercial centre thanks to its strategic location on the Atlantic and its sugar cane exports.

Funchal is quite large and it is worth taking the cable car to the higher areas of the city. A one-way ticket costs 12.5 EUR. Tickets can be bought locally or online at https://madeiracablecar.com/

THE OLD TOWN

The narrow, cobbled streets full of restaurants, cafes and art galleries create a charming atmosphere. The old town is also where you'll find traditional Madeiran architecture and colourfully painted doors.

MERCADO DOS LAVRADORES

SÉ CATHEDRAL

This cathedral is one of the most important historical monuments of the city. It was built in the 16th century. It combines Gothic, Manueline and Moorish elements. Inside you will find beautiful wooden ceilings made of cedar, which are worth admiring.

The only way to the Botanical and Tropical Gardens is by cable car!

BOTANICAL AND TROPICAL GARDEN

Funchal is known for its rich flora, and the Botanical and Tropical Gardens offer a wonderful display of diverse plants, including tropical and subtropical species. It is also an ideal place to relax and offers panoramic views of the city and the ocean.

FORT SAO TIAGO

This 17th-century fortress was built to protect Funchal from pirates and now serves as a museum of modern art. The fort offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and the old town.

6. TELEFÉRICO DAS ACHADAS DA CRUZ

Achadas da Cruz is most famous for its cable car that runs steeply down to the coastal valley of Fajã da Quebrada Nova. This cable car is popular with both tourists and locals, who use it to access the agricultural terraces in the area.

The cable car journey takes about 5 minutes and covers an altitude difference of more than 450 metres. The views during the ride are amazing - the steep cliffs, the Atlantic Ocean and the green terraced gardens create an unforgettable scenery. For many visitors, this is one of the highlights of their stay in Madeira.

For more information, visit the website https://www.portomoniz.pt/pt/visitantes/pontos-de-interesse/teleferico

7. CASCATA DOS ANJOS WATERFALL

This waterfall is located in the area between Ponta do Sol and Madalena do Mar on the south coast of the island. What makes Cascata dos Anjos unique is the fact that the water of the waterfall falls directly onto the old road, creating a unique and fascinating scene. The water flows down from a high cliff above the old coastal road ER101, which is surrounded by lush greenery, creating a surprisingly beautiful yet natural "shower effect".

Tourists and locals alike often drive their cars under the waterfall. If you drive slowly, you can enjoy the natural shower right in the comfort of your vehicle! It's a unique moment that will thrill many visitors.

8. CABO GIRAO

Cabo Girão is one of the most famous and most visited places in Madeira. Located on the south coast of the island, about 20 minutes drive from the capital Funchal, this cliff is known for its breathtaking views and is one of the highest cliffs in Europe.

Cabo Girão rises 580 metres above the Atlantic Ocean. Its sheer walls drop dramatically to ocean level and provide incredible panoramic views.

In 2012, a glass viewing platform called a skywalk was opened at the top of the cliff. It is similar to the famous viewpoints like the Grand Canyon in the USA. Walking on the glass floor above the steep cliff and looking down at the ocean and terraces below is a truly unique experience that attracts tourists from all over the world.

9. SANTANA AND PORTO MONIZ

SANTANA

Santana is a small town in the northeast of Madeira, known for its traditional triangular houses and rich natural landscape. The town is surrounded by mountains and the ocean, making it a popular destination for tourists looking for an authentic Madeiran experience.

The triangular houses are the main icon of Santana. These picturesque huts with thatched roofs, wooden frames and bright colours are a great example of traditional Madeiran architecture. They were originally built as agricultural dwellings, and although today most are used more as tourist attractions, some houses are still inhabited.

In Santana you can also visit the Parque Temático da Madeira, a theme park dedicated to the traditional way of life in Madeira. It offers visitors a glimpse of the island's cultural and historical heritage, including examples of agriculture, traditional life and folk customs. For more information, visit the website https://www.parquetematicodamadeira.pt/

PORTO MONIZ

Porto Moniz is a beautiful coastal town in northwest Madeira, famous for its natural lava pools and dramatic coastal scenery. These pools were formed by lava that solidified during volcanic eruptions, creating depressions that are now filled with seawater. Swimming in these pools is a unique experience as you are surrounded by volcanic rocks and the sea.

The pools are safe and well maintained, with access for children and adults. There are showers, changing rooms and restaurants nearby so you can spend the day swimming and relaxing with views of the Atlantic Ocean.

For more information, visit https://www.portomoniz.pt/pt/

10. PONTA DE SAO LOURENCO

Ponta São Lourenço is a narrow peninsula near the town of Machico and the easternmost point of Madeira.

This easternmost tip of the island is a must for anyone wanting to explore the charms of Madeira's east coast. Ponta de São Lourenço offers a unique and impressive setting with panoramic views of the north and south sides of the island.

The best way to discover the beauty of this peninsula is via the six-kilometre Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço trail. This is a moderately strenuous hike with an estimated duration of 2.5 hours. At the end of the trail is the Cafetaria Sardine House cafe, where you can refresh yourself after the hike. You can find their menu on this website https://casadosardinha.com/

Motorboating is more than an adrenaline rush

If you don't want to go back the same way, you can use the motorboat transport, which will be more than an adrenaline experience for you. Please note that you will not be able to return to land with dry clothes. You can also buy a cruise around the peninsula. You'll sail to a lighthouse that no other road leads to.

You can book online or at a local restaurant https://madeiraseaemotions.com/tours/basic-tour-i-cais-do-sardinha-to-marina-quinta-do-lorde/