Discover the "Flower Island"
Madeira is part of Portugal, an autonomous region roughly 600 miles off the mainland. This region is made up of the main island as well as Ilhas Desertas, Ilhas Selvanges, and Porto Santo, all of which are considerably less visited than Madeira, but can be all easily discovered in your car hire.
You will most likely arrive in Funchal, the island’s capital and – with a population of 105,000 – the biggest city. The main landmark is Sé Cathedral, dating from the 15th century. Countless little squares and parks contribute to the high relaxation factor of this city, and local markets and national museums give you a very good idea of what Madeira is about.
Should you be interested in European history also visit Monte a few miles north of Funchal where King Charles I of Austria-Hungary was laid to rest in a church.
Though Funchal has a great buzz it does not take much to escape the streets of the city as it is encircled by rugged, green mountains. Numerous tourist agencies in town sell detailed hiking maps or rent out mountain bikes, you can even discover the area in your hired car.
Impressive Landscapes
Madeira gets its nickname “Flower Island” from the astonishing vegetation fostered by the volcanic lands. Many famous and ordinary guests have come to this place which pairs breathtaking beauty with healthy, clean salty air to heal various ailments among them Winston Churchill and Empress Elizabeth “Sissi” of Austria.
To best experience the beauty of Madeira book a rental car for around the island. Though most of the sights are entirely natural there are a few pit stops you can take along the way. The Ponta do Pargo lighthouse, situated on the island’s western tip, is one of the more important man-made landmarks, and if you are close to São Vicente stop by the volcanology centre explaining the origins of Madeira and its overflowing vegetation.
A World Under Water!!
The island’s volcanic origin is also the reason why there are no natural sandy beaches on Madeira, though hotels and the national tourism agency have created a few artificial bathing beaches. If possible you should still take a dip in the water, equipped with an oxygen tank and an underwater camera. The marine world around the island is just as diverse as the one on land, and scuba diving licenses as well as equipment can be obtained from various schools around the island.
Take a Hike that is Best Suited to You
If you prefer steady ground on your feet but still do not want to miss out on the spectacular diversity of species take a hike around Pico Ruivo, the 6000 ft (1830 m). Trails have various fitness requirements, if you are entirely inexperienced or simply wish for some company you can join a guided tour. An easy alternative is a walk along the old irrigation plants Levadas, created to supply the drier southern part of the island with rain water from the north.
Tantalise Your Taste Buds!
Hiking, cycling, scuba diving and travelling in your rental car will surely stir up your appetite for some of the local fare. Madeira’s delicacies draw upon the natural assets of the island, therefore dishes often include seafood like Espada, though it isn’t all fish. Should you enjoy the your red meat you will love Espetada, a meat skewer up to 3 ft (90 cm) long. Whatever you order, wash it down with some Poncha, a delicious traditional lemonade made from lemon, orange, honey, and sugar cane.
