MADEIRA
Madeira is an archipelago of volcanic origin located in the Atlantic Ocean, west of the African coast. It was discovered officially in 1419 by the Portuguese and comprises Ilha da Madeira, Porto Santo and two other groups of islands: Ilhas Desertas (three deserted islands) and Ilhas Selvagens (two wild islands). From the seven islands only Ilha da Madeira and Porto Santo are inhabited all year round and have infrastructures.
Ilha da Madeira is the biggest one and offers an astonishing variety of landscapes, such as high mountains, beautiful swimming spots, the interesting city of Funchal and small villages in the midst of a green scenario. Porto Santo is mostly famous for the idyllic beaches and peaceful atmosphere. Both are fantastic for hiking, with trails that cross luxurious vegetation and offer mind-blowing panoramic views. Ilhas Desertas and Ilhas Selvagens are protected areas where some species of animals and plants thrive and can be explored by boat.
These islands are a fantastic holiday destination offering an interesting mix of things to see and do, from great outdoor activities, to lovely swimming spots, idyllic beaches, gorgeous gardens, a rich cultural heritage, a beautiful capital city and great gastronomy. Most tourists stay in a very narrow area where the resorts are located, which makes it easy to escape the touristy locations and enjoy Madeira in peace.
Ilha da Madeira is the biggest one and offers an astonishing variety of landscapes, such as high mountains, beautiful swimming spots, the interesting city of Funchal and small villages in the midst of a green scenario. Porto Santo is mostly famous for the idyllic beaches and peaceful atmosphere. Both are fantastic for hiking, with trails that cross luxurious vegetation and offer mind-blowing panoramic views. Ilhas Desertas and Ilhas Selvagens are protected areas where some species of animals and plants thrive and can be explored by boat.
These islands are a fantastic holiday destination offering an interesting mix of things to see and do, from great outdoor activities, to lovely swimming spots, idyllic beaches, gorgeous gardens, a rich cultural heritage, a beautiful capital city and great gastronomy. Most tourists stay in a very narrow area where the resorts are located, which makes it easy to escape the touristy locations and enjoy Madeira in peace.
- Main towns: Funchal (Ilha da Madeira).
- Highlights: Natural Landscapes; Hiking; Historical and Cultural Heritage; Water Sports; Wine; Gastronomy; Arts & Crafts.
- Weather: The archipelago has a mild climate with warm and long summers and the ocean temperature is warmer than in Portugal mainland.
- Getting in and out: The flight from Funchal or Porto Santo airport to Portugal mainland takes just under 2 hours. There are also many international flights straight to Funchal.
- Getting around: Having a car to drive around is highly recommended in Ilha da Madeira. There’s a ferry connection between Ilha da Madeira and Porto Santo.
- Journal Posts: Madeira; Natural Parks. We also wrote an article about Madeira that was published by Taste of Portugal.
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