Discover Madeira and shake off any misconceptions
21.07.2023 - 07:47
/ roughguides.com
Madeira will surprise you. It's not a staid holiday choice now. It's part of Portugal but closer to North Africa. And it's been discovered. Find out what indie travellers like about Madeira. The information in this article is taken from The Rough Guide to Portugal, your essential guide for visiting Portugal.
Madeira's had no volcanic activity for 6500 years. But it's a volcanic island. And black sand is natural on the beach.
You will find some golden sand in the south. But it's imported.
Need a beach day? Do as the locals do. Catch a ferry to Porto Santo. It's a couple of hours away. But worth it for excellent seafood and Atlantic views.
Embrace volcanic Madeira. Take a full day skywalk and Porto Moniz pools tour.
© Shutterstock
Enormous cruise ships often dock in Funchal. The quaint island capital's appealing. So passengers tend to stay there. And they're back on board by evening.
After dark, Funchal Old Town comes alive. Madeira's nightlife is cool and European. Nothing kicks off until midnight. And it's mostly locals in clubs and bars.
Dolphin and whale watching is big in Madeira. Most boats are rigid inflatables. So beware. Atlantic swells can be alarming.
Don't worry too much. Engines cut when dolphins are spotted. Then you simply commune with nature.
Surfers love Madeira's Atlantic. Beginners should try Porto da Cruz. Pros head to Jardim do Mar.
Go inland for peaks and ravines. Madeira's known for climbing, canyoning and off-roading. And steep rides challenge mountain bikers.
Hikers can get deep into the forest. Just follow the 2000km of historic levada. These narrow canals are uniquely Madeiran and network the island.
Don't just watch dolphins. Take a swimming with dolphins cruise from Funchal.
© Shutterstock
Madeira still has bland hotel chains. But now there are boutique hotels in Funchal. And you'll find quirky rentals in the mountains.
Avoid hotel swimming pools. Try volcanic ones instead. They're all round the coast. Visit northern Porto Moniz. It's known for Atlantic waves and deep pools.
Then go local in Funchal. The morning Mercado dos Lavradores is a must. Expect big, ugly but delicious fish. Admire the island produce. And stop for coffee. Served with Pastéis de nata.
Looking for an original stay? Book Fajã dos Padres on the south coast.
Prefer to leave planning and booking to experts? Have a look at some sample itineraries. Both Complete Portugal or Portugal Itineraries offer inspiration. All Tailor Made Trips can be modified together with your local expert, then booked for a stress-free holiday. Click 'Modify this itinerary' to contact a local Portugal expert.
Festival in Madeira © Shutterstock
Where is Madeira? It may be part of Portugal. But Europe is 955km away. North Africa is much