“In 1419, Portuguese explorer João Gonçalves Zarco, under the sponsorship of Prince Henry the navigator, set sail en route for African Guinea and was thrown off course by a violent storm. The result of being blown off course was the discovery of a small island that was named Porto Santo “Holy Port” as is was this island that provided these navigators with shelter during the harsh weather. A year later, a neighbouring island was discovered and was given the name Madeira Island, which means wood.…”
Today is a world’s leading island destination!
Where?
A Portuguese archipelago situated in the north Atlantic Ocean, southwest of Portugal. The capital of Madeira is Funchal, located on the main island’s south coast. And that is where we stayed during our holidays.
Who?
If you are looking for the perfect beach holiday you should save some time to visit Porto Santo! Madeira was just so much more appealing to my family when we chose this incredible destination for our Summer holidays back in 2008, we had such an amazing time there because we could combine sea and mountain in one place!
When?
Mediterranean climate with mild year-round temperatures, it tends to be raining mostly between October and April. During the rest of the year days are filled with sunshine.
Why?
Madeira will suit you for its tasty food, beautiful green forests, swimming in the sea and getting in touch with Madeira ´s culture. And if that is not enough, I am sure you will find something you like and make it even more special here!
- climbing, hiking
- scuba, snorkeling
- kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding & canoeing
- horseback riding, bike riding
- wine tours & tastings
- dolphin & whale watching
- surfing, windsurfing & kitesurfing
How?
By Plane with TAP, SATA or PGA. And rent a car or book tours.
And if you have some extra time and want to bring your car: there is a boat from Portimao to Funchal with 2 departures per week, you will see it sounds fun and cheap if you check Naviera Armas website.
What?
I captured some of the most beautiful moments of my days in Madeira with my Panasonic compact camera!
Funchal Marina
Cathedral Se & Townhall
The statue of Sissi, the empress who had the cult of beauty
Madeira Botanical Garden
Sea Avenue (Avenida do Mar)
Monte Cable Car
The traditional descent from the Mount in carts of baskets next to “Nossa Senhora do Monte” Church
Lido Resort Complex
Miradouro do Cabo Girão & Câmara de Lobos
Serra D´Água & Encumeada
Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools
Cascata do Véu da Noiva (Cascade of the Bride’s Veil)
Discover your own moments in Madeira!
I found this inspiring video:
I was just nineteen, and there I was...swimming in Paradise, laying on the surface of clear waters, acknowledging how lucky we all were.
