Madeira is a fantastic place to visit whether solo or in large groups. The island, located in the region of Portugal, has a subtropical climate. Madeira comprises 4 islands just off the northwest coast of Africa. Madeira is known for its famous wine and is an absolute must-visit destination. Take in the stunning scenery and have a glass of wine, explore the volcanoes and natural landscapes.
Pico Ruivo
This is the highest mountain peak in all of Madeira, if you are feeling brave and up to the challenge then make sure you’ve packed your hiking boots! This is a stunning hike, the Pico Ruivo takes 6 hours to climb and is definitely not to be missed if you’re an experienced hiker! Rekindle your love for the great outdoors and catch the breathtaking views at the top. Fear not, there are many trails for all levels of hikers, ensuring no one misses out on the stunning scenery on offer here!
Monte Palace Tropical Garden
You can access the gardens via cable car. The gardens are located on the site of the Monte Palace Hotel and offer a stunning environment to anyone who visits. There is a major variety of plants here, from medical plants, European azaleas, local laurel forest, and cycads from South Africa and there are also herbs, cacti, and Heathers from Scotland. You can also find the Japanese garden and Koi carp pond.
Cabo Girao
The Cabo Girao is a skywalk installed in 2012 that stands at a height of 580 meters tall. The skywalk hangs on the edge of a cliff and overlooks the ocean below. This attraction was designed for the adventurous. The skywalk is completely glass and you can look down through the see-through glass floor and see the ocean waves below you. If heights are your thing, or you love a challenge, be sure not to miss out on this!
Funchal Cable Car
Take a cable car up to the stunning suburban town of Monte. The cable car ride offers visitors 15 minutes to soak up the stunning views, overlooking the ocean and mountain sides, the mountain side is decorated with gorgeous white houses. The location is stunning and you can even see a couple of attractions, including the tranquil Monte palace gardens and the church where Emperor Charles I is buried.
Parque Forestal de Queimadas
The Parque Forestal de Queimadas is a subtropical forest located in Pico Ruivo. The enchanting forest offers gorgeous scenery and is a fantastic place to explore on foot. The forest has many trails and you can even stop and have a picnic in the shelter. The shelter has been designed to resemble a traditional Santana cottage.
Madeira Film Experience
Sit down in the comfortable cinema, just off the marina, and take in the Madeira film experience. The film condenses Madeira’s history into a 30-minute segment. You will come away from these experiences knowing all about the history of Madeira, from the discovery in the 15th century to present-day events.
Go diving in Madeira
Madeira is regarded as the diving spot of choice in Europe! Go diving in the warm waters and swim amongst aquatic life. You might catch a glimpse of octopus, moray eels, and grouper. The waters remain warm all year round, the coldest the water gets is 18 degrees in February and rises to 24 degrees in the summer months.
Madeira Wine
You must sample the famous Madeira wine and be better than the place it’s actually grown and crafted? A trip to Madeira is not complete without sampling the famous wine and there are many ways you can do this. So many tours are available, where better to learn all about wine brewing than on a tour, soak up the history that spans over 200 years.
Swim in a lava pool
No, not actual hot boiling lava. These pools were carved by nature and offer an unforgettable experience. If you have time you won’t want to miss out on it. Swin in these pools and set your sights on the stunning views overlooking the Cabo Girao cliff.
Rainbow of colors
The Mercado dos Lavradores market is a must see. A rainbow of colors plasters this region. The colorful small boats that reside in the bay, the colorful Santana houses, and the idyllic colorful flowers in the botanical gardens. The market is a must-see, even if it’s just to snap a photo.
Try the local dishes
You have to try the signature dishes whilst you are here. The most well-known dish is Espada, consisting of squid and baked banana. It may sound like an unusual combination but we can assure you it is one of Madeira’s most adored dishes. Espetada is another dish, consisting of beef and seasoned bay leaves. There are many delicious restaurants in Madeira and you are sure to find one that takes your fancy.
