Madeira was a favourite haunt of Winston Churchill. However the British have enjoyed the island for centuries. For those returning from India and further afield, Madeira was a compulsory stop, a place to relax and acclimatize to the northern hemisphere. With its mountains, waterfalls, rock pools and its assortment of flowers and fruits, the island's scenery is breathtaking. What's more, this stunning, year-round destination is just over three-hours away by air.With its mountains, waterfalls, rock pools and its assortment of flowers and fruits, the island's scenery is breathtaking. What's more, this stunning, year-round destination is just over three-hours away by air.
Madeira is best known for its fortified wine, the ancient Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO Natural World Heritage site, and its levadas - irrigation channels that provide an excellent network of pathways. There's also plenty for sports fans. The island has two golf courses (a third is being built), while catamaran excursions, scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, paragliding and surfing are available. Neighbouring Porto Santo, just a short flight away, has its own golf course (a second is under construction) and miles of white sand.
Pico Ruivo, photo by Gerard Bretterbauer - Direcção Regional do Turismo da Madeira
Most visitors stay in and around Funchal, the capital, on the south coast, which has great nightlife. It is also the place to ride the island's famous wicker toboggans. They slide about 2km downhill, from the village of Monte, some 550 metres above Funchal, in just 10 minutes, reaching speeds of up to 48km an hour.
With year-round temperatures from 16C to 24C, it's never too hot or too cold.
Attractions...
- Outdoor Activity: Adventurous travellers can hurtle down a steep road in a wicker basket gliding on wooden runners. Visitors can also play a game of golf and go scuba diving, paragliding, surfing or deep-sea fishing.
- Romantic breaks: Madeira has the perfect scenery and accommodation for couples of all ages who are seeking to reinvigorate body and soul.
- Christmas and New Year Celebrations: An unforgettable experience.
- Relaxation: Whether you're staying in a luxurious Quinta or resting in one of the island's numerous spas, Madeira is the perfect place to find relaxation and peace of mind.
Madeira is perfect for...
- Cruise tourists: Especially during the New Year's celebration.
- Horticulture enthusiasts.
- Walkers and hikers.
- Beach lovers (Porto Santo) and watersports fans.
- Golfers.
- Spa Lovers.
- Families: Seeking a relaxing break in exceptional accommodation.
- Couples: Seeking a romantic break.
Levada do Caldeirão Verde, photo by Xico Maia - Direcção Regional do Turismo da Madeira; Landscape Funchal - Madeira Island, photo by Choupana Hills Resort & Spa
More information: visitportugal.com
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