An amazing nature where high rocky mountains plunge into the ocean. Impressive cliffs; virgin fajas that, when seen from above, captivate and contrast with the crystal-clear waters of the ocean; hidden beaches of black sand or pebbles, clear evidence of the island's volcanic origin, and some that can only be reached by cable car.
It is a destination that combines sea and mountains, where everyone can enjoy a variety of fun activities and experiences: from canyoning (Madeira is one of the best places in the world to try it, thanks to the presence of so many rivers and waterfalls!!) to canoeing and boat trips to spot and swim with dolphins; from diving to rock climbing and countless trekking: there are more than 50 official ones!
Let's say that Madeira is not the destination for a "beach and relaxation" holiday (for this type of holiday, there is the nearby Porto Santo, which you can reach by ferry in about 2.30 h) but it is the destination for those who love active holidays (like me!!)
Funchal, a lively Atlantic city where most of the population lives, is the ideal starting point for exploring the island. A tourist city par excellence, it has everything you need: a thousand restaurants, shops, souvenirs, museums, theatre, parks and beautiful gardens, including the botanical garden, which you can reach by cable car from the old town to the upper part of the city, from where you can enjoy one of the most sensational views of the coast and the Funchal marina. Lose yourself in the narrow streets of the 'old part' of the city, admiring the colourful doors of rua Santa Maria, painted by local artists who have turned this street into an open-air museum.
Visit the famous market (Mercado dos Lavradores) that is packed every day and whose stalls are teeming with fresh flowers and tropical Madeiran fruit. Taste some of the endemic fruits that you can't find anywhere else, such as the maracuja banana, and get to know the fresh fish that arrives daily directly from ocean waters on the market counters.
Climb to the top of the city, Monte, from whose church there are amazing views and, if you wish, try the typical basket sledges, - a Madeiran tradition!
Madeira is an ideal destination for those who love unspoilt nature. The choice of hiking, trekking and walking among the levadas is vast.
Walking along paths between steep cliffs overlooking the ocean, following the path of the levadas (irrigation channels used to bring water to the cultivated fields), walking along the veredas or reaching a waterfall and diving into its cool waters for a regenerating bath, is the prerogative of a Madeira holiday.
On sunny days, a bright light illuminates the sea and the blue sky, reflecting the green of the mountains, the colours of the thousands of flowers that paint the island and the endless banana plantations... Madeira bananas: such a delight!
Here you can taste delicious fresh fish dishes, enjoy the folklore of the friendly locals who are always ready to chat with visitors from the mainland.
We offer you a walkig tour through exuberant nature; trekking through unique landscapes; sunrises at the top of the Pico Areeiro peaks; views of fantastic sunsets, swimming in the natural pools of Porto Moniz or enjoying a glass of wine near the Ponta do Pargo lighthouse... Are you ready for a new adventure? Discover the island with us, immerse yourself in the green heart of this corner of paradise protected by the Atlantic Ocean and savour all its energy.
