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Pestana Carlton Madeira

Pestana Carlton Madeira

Your accomodation in Madeira - Pestana Carlton

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Hotel Pestana Ocean Bay All Inclusive

Hotel Pestana Ocean Bay All Inclusive

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Pestana Quinta do Arco

Pestana Quinta do Arco

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Everything you're into
If, when on holidays, you're into: seeing no familiar faces, diving into the unknown, spending hours in the sun and as many other choosing a wine, waking up at dawn to walk kilometres, exploring a city on foot, finding the best place to spread out your towel, then Madeira is everything you're into.

Madeira

MADEIRA PORTO SANTO FNC PXO FUNCHAL CÂMARA DE LOBOS PORTO MONIZ SEA ACTIVITIES SAO VICENTE PONTA DO SOL PORTO SANTO NATURE ACTIVITIES

Madeira

Funchal

  • Madeira Cuisine and Wine
  • Events

Madeira Cuisine and Wine

Using the excelent ingredients produced in Madeira, thanks to its subtropical climate and the great fertility of its volcanic soils, the region’s cuisine has become widely known for its unique delicacies. Both typical dishes and famous Madeira wines carry the name of the archipelago all over the world.

Events

Throughout the year, the municipality of Funchal hosts a wide variety of events that leave no one indifferent – from locals to visitors. They are, in fact, ideal moments to get in touch, in na enriching and aythentic way, with the cultural traditions of this region and its people.

Madeira

Câmara de Lobos

  • Câmara de Lobos Bay
  • Curral das Freiras
  • Cabo Girão

Câmara de Lobos Bay

The Câmara de Lobos bay is one of the main calling cards of this municipality. In the peaceful waters surrounding it, you will find its characteristic fishing boats that add colour to the scenery. It was not by chance that Winston Churchill decided to paint this unique place during his visit to the island.

Curral das Freiras

Curral das Freiras is the largest parish in the municipality of Câmara de Lobos. Located in a valley surrounded by mountains, the town is named after the nuns of the Santa Clara Convent who found refuge here, in 1566, when pirates attacked Funchal.

Cabo Girão

Cabo Girão, in Câmara de Lobos, is situated at an altitude of 580 m. It is the highest cape in Europe and one of the most photographed points in the archipelago, both for its famous suspended glass platform and its view over the municipalities of Câmara de Lobos and Funchal.

Madeira

Nature Activities

  • Madeira Hiking
  • Birdwatching
  • Golf

Madeira Hiking

An ideal destination for hiking lovers. Mountains, ocean, green forests, waterfalls and viewpoints: the archipelago's natural wealth makes hiking in Madeira unforgettable and invigorating.

Birdwatching

The Laurisilva Forest is home to many endemic species of birds, such as the Madeira firecrest, the Trocaz pigeon, and the Madeira laurel pigeon. Bring your binoculars and enjoy bird watching in this rich habitat. The forest also hosts a variety of unique plant species and small animals, offering ample opportunities for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

Golf

Golf in Madeira offers ideal conditions for pleasant practice at all times of the year. Find world-class courses, where tranquillity and natural beauty reign supreme.

Madeira

Ponta do Sol

  • Ponta do Sol Village
  • Paul da Serra
  • Bica da Cana Viewpoint

Ponta do Sol Village

Situated on the southwest coast of the island of Madeira, the municipality of Ponta do Sol is known for generally enjoying the most hours of sunshine per year. It is, therefore, a place much appreciated by those seeking to enjoy sunny days on the beach or in contact with some idyllic spots in Nature, for example.

Paul da Serra

With a unique natural landscape, Paul da Serra is a unique point of interest in the island of Madeira. This is the largest mountain plateau in the whole archipelago. It is, therefore, one of the most relevant (and unmissable) points of interest in the municipality of Ponta do Sol. With an average altitude of 1500 metres, Paul da Serra offers amazing views over the mountain peaks and the deep valleys that mark its surroundings. On days with good visibility, it is possible to see the coastline of the south and north coasts. The landscape is, however, dominated by Nature's shades of green. This place is home to a diverse and valuable flora. We can find multiple clusters of indigenous vegetation in this area. The flora includes some endemic species, characteristic of the central mountain massif. Such is the case of thyme (Thymus micans), for example. Paul da Serra is also home to important wildlife species, particularly birds. Enjoy a visit to this grand plateau, the only one on the island of Madeira, to explore some of the many trails and levadas that start here.

Bica da Cana Viewpoint

Located in the parish of Canhas, municipality of Ponta do Sol, Bica da Cana is a very attractive tourist point of interest on the west coast of the island of Madeira. Integrated in Madeira's central mountain range, this location allows you to be in close contact with Nature, enjoy leisure areas and access wide landscapes, benefiting from its privileged geographical position. One of the most visited points in this area is the Bica da Cana Viewpoint. Situated at an altitude of around 1580 metres, it offers visitors a panoramic view over the imposing mountain peaks of the island. On days with good visibility, you can also see the valley of São Vicente on the green north coast of Madeira. Nearby, there is also a leisure area ideal to spend some relaxing time with family or friends. Integrated in a green area, with a rich flora, this spot provides the necessary conditions for picnics. For that purpose, visitors are provided with fire pits, tables and benches or sanitary facilities. Finally, we should note that from Bica da Cana (Ponta do Sol) it is possible to access various trails and footpaths - the best way to get to know Madeira's natural heritage.

Madeira

Porto Moniz

  • Natural Pools of Porto Moniz
  • Ribeira da Janela
  • Fanal Forest

Natural Pools of Porto Moniz

The Porto Moniz Natural Pools are volcanic rock pools naturally filled with crystal-clear seawater. The pools offer a unique and safe swimming experience, as they are protected from the open ocean’s waves by the natural rock formations. The water is clean, and the scenery is stunning, with dramatic views of the rocky coastline and the Atlantic Ocean. These pools are suitable for all ages and are an excellent spot for a refreshing dip. Besides swimming, you can relax on the surrounding sunbathing areas, which include spacious terraces with plenty of room to lay out towels or rent sun loungers. The incredible backdrop of volcanic rocks, the ocean, and the mountains make this an ideal place to soak up the sun and enjoy the natural beauty of Madeira.

Ribeira da Janela

It is in the parish of Ribeira da Janela that the watercourse with the same name ends. This is the longest and most abundant river formed inside the island of Madeira. Originating in the middle of the mountains, this water line crosses the Madeiran mountains until it flows into the Atlantic. And it is precisely from the mouth of the river that it takes its name. The famous Islets of Ribeira da Janela, made up of impressive rock formations that mark the seascape, are close to the coastline. At the top of one of them, the rock has an opening that resembles a window (janela). More and more surfers are coming here, attracted by the intensity of the sea that bathes this area of the north coast of Madeira. The pebble beach, with a parking area, sanitary facilities and showers, ensures all the necessary conveniences. The existence of a nearby camping park is also an asset for those who wish to camp in harmony with nature. Ribeira da Janela is famous for the fertility of its soils, whose irrigation is guaranteed by the levadas of Lombo Gordo and Cedros.

Fanal Forest

The Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since December 1999, is one of Madeira's most treasured natural wonders. Fanal, a highlight of this forest, is renowned for its ancient laurel trees (Ocotea foetens), some of which predate the island's discovery. Located between Ribeira da Janela and the Paul da Serra plateau, Fanal’s unique, mystical atmosphere makes it a standout in the Porto Moniz municipality. Explore its beauty through trails like the PR13 Vereda do Fanal and PR14 Levada dos Cedros, which offer intimate encounters with its vibrant nature. Fanal is also a "Rest and Quiet Reserve" perfect for contemplation and relaxation.

Madeira

Porto Santo

  • Porto Santo Beach
  • Wellness
  • Diving

Porto Santo Beach

A 9-kilometre golden sand, along with a sea of calm, crystalline waters and pleasant temperatures, placed Porto Santo beach on the map of paradisiacal destinations. Proving this, in 2022, Porto Santo beach was elected the best beach in Europe by the European Best Destinations.

Wellness

The therapeutic properties of Porto Santo's fine, warm sands and its crystal-clear, turquoise waters are the essential ingredients used for the therapies offered at the spas on this paradisiacal island. Coming here on holiday allows you to enjoy a revitalising experience for body and mind.

Diving

Porto Santo is one of Europe's best places for diving. This is mostly due to its warm, translucent waters and the fascinating biodiversity found in its natural reserves. Come and take a close look at species such as anemones, black corals or manta rays, in natural spots or on artificial reefs.

Madeira

Sao Vicente

  • São Cristóvão Viewpoint
  • Nossa Senhora de Fátima Chapel

São Cristóvão Viewpoint

Madeira's north coast is home to nooks of unique beauty, where the grandeur of nature is revealed in every landscape. The São Cristóvão viewpoint, in the parish of Boaventura, is one of those places where the scenery seems to have been painted for the human gaze. Tucked away on one of the highest slopes in the region, this viewpoint offers a breathtaking view over the Boaventura valley, with the verdant agricultural terraces and the Atlantic, stretching peacefully as far as the eye can see. In the distance, you can catch a glimpse of the coastal parish of Arco de São Jorge, on the horizon cut out by the irregular contour of the island, a landscape that is repeatedly captured by photography lovers. The São Cristóvão viewpoint is also known for its proximity to the restaurant that shares the same name, making it a must for those who enjoy Madeira's fine cuisine and those looking for a moment of reflection. The natural surroundings, marked by the contrast between the lush greenery and the deep blue sea, invite you to relax and connect with the scenery.

Nossa Senhora de Fátima Chapel

A bit all over the municipality of São Vicente, on the north coast of the island of Madeira, there are symbols, monuments and traditions that testify to the intense connection of this region to faith. Thus, it is not surprising that one of the ex-libris of the municipality is a very peculiar religious monument, called Nossa Senhora de Fátima Chapel. Situated on the top of a hill, this small temple, whose façades are painted in white, contrasts with its green surroundings. Its unusual typology catches the eye: it is a quadrangular, tower-shaped building with a marked verticality, finished in a spire. When arriving to Nossa Senhora de Fátima Chapel, which can be accessed through a staircase, visitors are confronted with a striking landscape. On one side, the majesty of the mountains covered by a dense forest mantle, on the other, the immensity of the Atlantic Ocean. The scenery is completed with the typical houses that sprinkle the slopes - especially the parish of São Vicente, which can be seen in its entirety here. This monument, considered an important part of the religious and cultural heritage of this region, was recently subject to a requalification process, where mainly elements linked to religious cult and its iconic bell mechanism were restored.

Madeira

Sea Activities

  • Dolphin and Whale Watching
  • Surf
  • Boat Tours

Dolphin and Whale Watching

As if the unparalleled landscapes revealed in every corner of Madeira weren't enough, the crystal-clear waters of the archipelago are also home to a lively world. This sea, which in some areas reaches a 3000 metres depth, is home to an extremely rich fauna, making the activity of Dolphin and Whale Watching in Madeira one of the most popular activities in the archipelago. Are you really going to stay on land?

Surf

In Madeira, the sea is a sacred temple. The archipelago's symbiotic relationship with the ocean is centuries old but continues to mark the daily pulse. Perhaps this is why surfers from all over the world feel so at home here, making surfing in Madeira a form of connection to this cult space. The island's rugged topography is fundamental for the constant formation of perfect, clean and big waves that have made Madeira's surf spots famous on the international surf circuit. More and more world-famous icons, such as Grant Twiggy Baker or Garrett McNamara, are surrendering to Madeira's surfing potential, considered the Atlantic Hawaii.

Boat Tours

Madeira is largely marked by the omnipresence of the ocean. The sea is part of the islands DNA, its people and, of course, most of its landscapes. But while it';s worth spending several hours contemplating the Atlantic from the archipelago, what about the opportunity to calmly observe Madeira's landscapes while floating in the sea? That's precisely the experience you can enjoy by taking a boat trip in Madeira.

Madeira in images

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