Danielle & James
Things To Do
Hikes
Madeira is famous for its levada walks (irrigation channels with scenic trails) and mountain hikes. Here are some of the best: - Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo: A breathtaking hike connecting two of Madeira’s highest peaks. - Pico Ruivo (via Achada do Teixeira): A shorter hike to Madeira’s highest peak from Santana. - Ponta de São Lourenço: A unique, semi-arid coastal hike with striking rock formations. - Levada das 25 Fontes: A lush trail leading to multiple waterfalls. - Levada do Caldeirão Verde: A stunning hike with tunnels, waterfalls, and dense greenery. - Levada do Rei: A beautiful, forested levada leading to a waterfall. - Vereda do Larano: A dramatic coastal hike with breathtaking ocean views.
Parks & Natural Attractions
- Fanal Forest: A mystical UNESCO-listed laurel forest, famous for its ancient, twisted trees often shrouded in fog, creating an otherworldly and enchanting atmosphere. - Queimadas Forest Park (Santana): A magical forest with traditional houses and levada trails. - Rocha do Navio Nature Reserve (Santana): A coastal reserve with cable car access and great viewpoints. - Cabo Girão Skywalk: One of Europe’s highest sea cliffs with a glass-floor viewpoint. - Seixal Beach: A stunning black sand beach surrounded by waterfalls. - Porto Moniz Natural Pools: Volcanic rock pools with crystal-clear water. - Curral das Freiras (Valley of the Nuns): A remote, scenic valley surrounded by mountains. - São Vicente Caves & Volcanism Centre: An underground cave system formed by lava tubes.
Wineries
Madeira is famous for its fortified wines, but there are also great local vineyards: - Blandy’s Wine Lodge (Funchal): Historic winery offering tours and tastings. - Henriques & Henriques (Câmara de Lobos): A fantastic spot for Madeira wine tastings. - Barbeito (Câmara de Lobos): A modern winery producing high-quality Madeira wines. - Pereira d’Oliveira (Funchal): A family-run winery specializing in aged Madeira wines. - Quinta do Barbusano (São Vicente): A vineyard offering tours and tastings of table wines. - Quinta do Furão (Santana): A vineyard and restaurant with stunning coastal views.
Restaurants & Local Markets
- Mercado dos Lavradores (Funchal): A vibrant market with fresh produce, flowers, and local delicacies. - Cortado Restaurant & Wine Bar (Santana): A cozy spot with a great selection of Madeira wines and regional dishes. - Local Farmer Stalls (Santana & around Madeira): Great for tasting fresh fruits, honey, and “Bolo do Caco” (Madeiran garlic bread).
Culture & Historical Attractions
- Sé Cathedral of Funchal: One of the oldest and most important historical sites in Madeira, dating back to the 16th century. - São Tiago Fort: A striking 17th-century fortress, once used for defense against pirates, now housing an art museum. - Santa Clara Convent: A well-preserved 15th-century convent with beautiful azulejos (Portuguese tiles) and rich history. - Palácio de São Lourenço: A grand historic fortress and palace that served as a governor’s residence. - Monte Palace Tropical Garden: A cultural gem featuring exotic gardens, sculptures, and historical tile panels. - Museu Quinta das Cruzes: A mansion museum displaying Madeiran aristocracy’s history and artifacts. - Santana’s Traditional Houses: One of Madeira’s most iconic cultural landmarks, representing traditional rural architecture.