Some moments become even more unforgettable when shared with the right people, at the right time, and in the right place. Madeira welcomes its visitors with open arms and offers unique moments that warm anyone’s heart. It's much more than just a trip; it's a collection of memories: the Mercado dos Lavradores, the wicker toboggans, and the old town are among the highlights.
The cuisine of the Madeira archipelago reflects a simple, generous, and hospitable people. Tasting Madeira means savoring its wine, honey cake, black scabbardfish, limpets, the famous “bolo do caco” bread, sweet bananas, tuna steak, fried corn, skewered meat on laurel sticks, homemade couscous, wheat soup, and more. Need we say more? The list continues with mouthwatering delicacies that are simply irresistible.
Equally traditional, yet distinct and suitable both as an aperitif and a digestif, Madeira wine has won fans all over the world. With its unique aroma and character, this fortified wine has over five centuries of history and is produced on the slopes and vineyards of the island’s designated wine region. Those who have tried it know exactly what we mean, and those who haven’t yet—should.
Madeira embroidery represents art and tradition, with a level of quality and craftsmanship that is absolutely stunning in every piece. The fabrics used include linen, silk, cotton, and organza. The designs are inspired by both traditional and modern patterns, and once completed, each piece is marked with a “unique” seal—making it even more exceptional and special.
Is there anything more comforting than a fantastic massage or a wellness treatment after a mountain hike along one of Madeira’s famous “levadas”? Whatever you choose to do, always take a moment to relax and enjoy yourself.
For most people, spas are found in hotels and come with modern, high-end facilities. The treatments and teams are highly professional, and it’s not uncommon for them to be inspired by the island’s natural elements—like honey, Madeira wine, or local vegetation. Everything, absolutely everything, is waiting for your visit.
Located in a bay bathed by the Atlantic Ocean on the southern coast, Funchal is the capital of the island of Madeira. It is a city full of history, cosmopolitan spirit, culture, and vibrant energy, and it is the largest tourist center on the island. Its name comes from the word “funcho,” which means fennel, a herb that grew abundantly when the first settlements were established on the island.
Shaped like an amphitheater, the city of Funchal extends from sea level across a basin and rises to an altitude of 1,818 meters at Pico do Areeiro. The landscapes are diverse, and lively events and entertainment are guaranteed throughout the year.
The Madeira Natural Park was created in 1982 and is classified as a biogenetic reserve. Within it, you will find unique fauna and flora that occupy nearly two-thirds of the island’s territory. If you wish to visit this reserve, there are countless corners to explore.
You can start with the Madeira Natural Park. Don’t forget the Natural Reserves of the Desertas and Selvagens Islands. Lastly, dive into the marine reserves (Reservas Marinhas) of Garajau and Sítio da Rocha do Navio, as well as the network of protected marine areas (Rede de Áreas Marinhas Protegidas) in Porto Santo.
There are incredible landscapes that awaken our senses and leave a lasting impression, no matter when we visit. One of Madeira’s greatest attractions is its lush native vegetation, characteristic of Macaronesia. It combines tropical and Mediterranean features that will take your breath away with their vibrant colors and array of scents. The island’s native laurel forest, "laurissilva," was recognized by UNESCO in 1999 as a World Natural Heritage site and is one of the main reasons to travel to the archipelago.
Prepare to discover landscapes full of color and movement that will dazzle and surprise you, awakening all your senses. The "laurissilva" forest is especially known for its large trees. However, due to its geographic location, mild Atlantic climate, and rugged terrain, Madeira is also home to a very rich flora.
The natural wealth of the archipelago extends beyond its vegetation. It goes much further, showcasing a remarkably diverse fauna. Birdlife is particularly abundant, and birdwatching is one of the activities you can engage in while visiting the archipelago.
Additionally, in this fairytale-like natural space, you can enjoy numerous trekking routes, ideal for hiking enthusiasts and those who love discovering incredible places.
Madeira is known worldwide not only for its natural beauty but also for its gardens and parks, which, almost like a well-curated exhibition, showcase a wide variety of flowers, plants, and trees to visitors.
The aromas fill the air, giving the island its natural fragrance. Visiting these gardens is proof that it’s possible to immerse nature fully into the cosmopolitan environment of the city. It’s a unique combination of factors that makes them incredibly fascinating and a natural refuge to relax and escape the daily stress.
In Madeira’s gardens, you’ll discover a little more of the island’s charm and see the result of a fantastic climate combined with the island’s fertile soils. A spectacle you won’t easily find elsewhere, at least not in this way...