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Madeira Islands 


Facts:Archipelago

Estimated Population is 280 000

Country:Portugal,

Status:Autonomous 

Set in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Morocco, 
Madeira, and Porto Santo is widely known as the Pearl of the Atlantic.

The volcanic origins of Madeira can still be seen and surprisingly mountainous with peaks of 1,860 metres; over 6,100 feet high! Fortunately for all, volcanic activity stopped about 6,500 years ago. This activity has endowed the island with a fertile landscape where much of the island was, until recently, covered in ancient subtropical rainforest, hence the name Madeira, wood”.

Parts of this forest (Laurisilva) still remain, mainly on the northern slopes and have become a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but the superb blooms for which the island has become famous may be found in abundance all year round. One of the nicest ways to see the dynamic and panoramic vistas is to take a 
Levada Walkalong side the water channels designed to supply irrigation to the drier parts.
Produce includes bananas, sugarcane and Madeira Wine, but much of their economic growth is  from tourism.

Madeira Weather

 

Madeira has a gentle climate. It’s almost never too hot or too cold, with an average high of 24ºC and low of 17ºC during summer months, dropping by just 4ºC in winter. The Leste, an east wind that blows off the Sahara can knock temperatures up into the 30s on some days of the year.

One look at Madeira’s lush greenery and abundance of fruit and flowers tells you that it does rain here. However  the island’s high mountains mean it has all manner of micro-climates – it may be dry in Funchal (generally the sunniest part), yet pirind down with rain in the north.

Things to do in Madeira

 

Madeir´s relatively small size can be most deceiving, it takes longer to get around the island than you might think, which is due partly to the mountainous landscape, but also because there is simply so much to see and to do.

The island abounds with evidence of its long and interesting history, poignant churches, rich in tradition and folklore. You’ll have some of your best experiences eating and drinking, with the local produce resulting in some surprising dishes, such as scabbard fish with banana. And don not forget to take the opportunity to taste our unique wine that carries Madeira’s name, the finest of which may turn you into a lifelong devotee.

Madeira’s museums are smaller, more personal and all the more memorable for that. The classical music scene in Madeira is also small, but extremely dynamic and worth exploring while you are there. The gardens are breathtaking. If you’re looking for a more active pastime, there is a range of sports to practice, and the amazing nature can best be enjoyed on a walking trip. And for a unique and special experience you can visit the Santa Maria caravelle, go whale and dolphin spotting, take a helicopter ride, visit the Madeira Theme Park or go tobogganing.

Madeira’s tourism is also changing, bringing a greater variety of tourists from many different age groups and walks of life. The island, generally popular with the older generation has of late been rediscovered by the younger more affluent set, now seen as the home of “Ronaldo”. It is no longer seen as a small, quiet island,  but as stunning all year round summer island destination that is in easy reach of most of Europe and is fast attracting a younger crowd who not only like to enjoy a night out but also love the spectacular drives and friendly people that can be found in abundance.

Madeira’s Nightlife, fine dining, water sports, perfect climate, and spectacular scenery, are second to none and highly intoxicating. Once you visit Madeira you will most surely be back for more.