Introduction to Madeira Islands
Situated 622 miles from the Portuguese capital city of Lisbon and 600 km off the west coast of Morocco, the “island of paradise”, Madeira, offers unique and delicate experience to its visitors. Its spectacular landscape of wild mountains and sheer cliffs, miles long lavadas, botanical gardens, rich history and mild climate makes Madeira an ideal tourist destination. Although its mild climate and wonderful hotel facilities attract older visitors, today due to the island’s healthy credentials, younger visitors also prefer to visit Madeira. These include spectacular lavada walks and a growing number of sports such as golf, diving and surfing.
Although Madeira’s less reputed island, Porto Santo does not have some of the world’s highest cliffs, the island offers nine-kilometer-long beach.
Funchal: Madeira’s historic capital hosts a good number of museums, sights, restaurants, bars and shops. Very Portuguese in its architecture and character, Funchal is close to most of the island’s top tourist attractions and makes the perfect start to explore the island.
Eastern Madeira:Eastern Madeira’s attractions include the island’s first capital, Machico; the island’s only sandy beach Ponta de São Lourenço and the island’s top golf course, Santo da Serra.
Western Madeira: In this pristine western coastline Ribeira Brava and Calheta are the principal resorts. While surfers enjoy Paul do Mar and Jardim do Mar, Calheta boasts an artificial sandy beach to its visitors.
Northeastern Madeira: World-wide famous peaks of Pico Arieiro and Pico Ruivo are the greatest highlights in northeastern Madeira. Also, reputed for its triangular houses, Santana, and beautiful village of Porto da Cruz are among other attractions.
Northwestern Madeira: This part of the island is quite inhibited. The main attractions are Porto Moniz and São Vicente.
Porto Santo: Madeira’s neighboring island can easily be reached by ferry or place. It hosts wonderful sandy beaches.