Madeira - A Complete Holiday Guide
Madeira is a wonderful holiday destination. The weather is sub-tropical and is neither too hot, nor too cool.
The island is a botanical paradise. The volcanic scenery is stunning. The coastline dramatic.
The madeira hotels are numerous and range from the economical to the simply luxurious. Choose to stay in the capital Funchal, or venture further afield.
The fights to Madeira are short-haul from the European mainland. Flights from over 30 airports are currently scheduled into Funchal airport.
Perhaps, most importantly, the locals are friendly and welcoming.
Latest Updates
Funchal's Old City Gate - 30th Jan 2010
The Old City Gate was originally constructed in 1689 as part of Funchal's fortifications.
That Funchal needed protection from pirates and foreign aggression was in little doubt.
The city was often attacked by marauding forces from passing ships.
Finally, the fortification became largely redundant in the late nineteenth century and the gate Varadouro was eventually dismantled in 1911.
Fortunately, key aspects of the gate and its design were preserved.
Then, in 2004, to contribute to the city's 500th anniversary celebrations, the gate was rebuilt in its original location.
Today, many tourist pass by without realising the significance of the structure and the part it played in Funchal's development more. . .
Monte Toboggan Ride - 23rd Jan 2010
The Monte Toboggan Sled Ride
The Monte toboggan ride in wicker basket sleds down toward Funchal city centre is surely one of the most famous of Madeira's tourist attractions.
The well-known American author, Ernest Hemingway, described his journey in the wicker basket toboggan sled as the "most exhilarating experience" of his life.
Indeed. from the 1850s onward, this unique means of transport has been thrilling visitors to Madeira island.
Today, the ride is purely a tourist novelty. As such, when commercial interests interfere with tradition, there are pitfalls awaiting the unwary traveller.
So, with the aid of our tourist guide, go pre-warned and enjoy the experience of a lost era without having to pay out unnecessary cash more. . .
Cabo Miradouro - 13th Jan 2010
The Cabo Miradouro Tourist Guide
The viewpoint, or as the locals call it the Miradouro, close to the Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Boa Morte in Cabo is one of the least known viewing platforms in Madeira.
Rising from the rugged western coastline, the stark headland which gives the miradouro some unique views is exposed to the elements. So expect a bracing experience.
The panoramic views across the Atlantic and along the coast can be breathtaking.
Since few tourist venture this far westward, and since this miradouro is largely unknown to most, you are almost guaranteed a quiet welcome.
So, if you want to sample the raw beauty of Madeira, and want to escape from the usual tourist attractions, make your way to Cabo more. . .
Funchal Flower Festival - 8th Jan 2010
The Funchal Flower Festival Tourist Guide
The Funchal Flower Festival epitomises the essence of Madeira; friendly people, surrounded by flowers, enjoying themselves in the warm sunshine whilst welcoming the island's visitors.
Certainly, the Madeirans like their festivals - so much so, that barely a month passes without some celebration happening somewhere on the island.
However, the Funchal Flower Festival is something apart. It has a history spanning more than fifty years and each year that passes seems to bring yet another aspect or event to the itinerary.
From inauspicious beginnings, which comprised of little more than a flower exhibition, today, the festival spans 3 days and an every increasing number of activities.
If you want to visit Madeira, and you have the chance to schedule your visit for the second weekend after Easter, then don't miss out on the chance to experience the carnival atmosphere that awaits you more. . .
Funchal to Monte Cable Car - 17th Dec 2009
The Funchal to Monte Cable Car Tourist Guide
Since November 2000, the cable car ride up to Monte has been one of the premier tourist attractions in Funchal.
Not only are you transported to Monte church, but in doing so you are treated to some wonderful, panoramic views of Madeira's capital city and it's harbour.
The journey will take you around 15 minutes. But, have your camera ready as you board; there are some marvellous photo opportunities and the time will simply fly by!
Once at Monte, when you have finished looking around the church, there are other tourist attractions that have sprung up alongside that are well worth a visit. Monte Palace Tropical Gardens being one of the more impressive.
Then, when you have finished your visit, you can return to the city centre via the famous Monte toboggans more. . .
Ribeiro Frio Tourist Guide - 14th Dec 2009
Ribeiro Frio is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Madeira and this small village has plenty to offer young and old alike.
The trout fish farm is bound to delight children and adults will surely appreciate the rainbow trout dishes at the nearby restaurant.
Two popular levada walks also start from here.
There is the relaxing stroll to the Balcões - a rocky outcrop that offers wonderful views over the valley to the Pico Ruivo, the highest peak on the island.
Meanwhile, there is the more demanding levada trek that makes its way to Portela some 11km away.
There is also a little known walk that few people realise exists, even though most visitors pass right by it. This delightful walk leads you along a forest path, down steps by a fast flowing water channel, to a lovely picnic spot. Just perfect for a hot, sunny afternoon more. . .
Balcões Levada Walk - 10th Dec 2009
The Balcões Levada Walk
from Ribeiro Frio
The walk from Ribeiro Frio to the Balcões and back again is one of the most popular levada routes in Madeira - and for good reason.
The Balcões (Balcony) is aptly named because, when you reach the end of the route, you are treated to some spectacular, panoramic views from the belvedere that is situated on a rocky outcrop far above the Metade Valley.
In the distance you can see the north coast at Eagle Rock and the Atlantic Ocean beyond. Whilst, looking inland, clouds permitting, you'll be able to make out the Pico Ruivo, the highest point on Madeira Island.
Having sampled the fantastic views, it will be time to retrace your steps and perhaps enjoy a stop at the Bar Flor da Selva before you return to Ribeiro Frio.
Whilst you are in Ribeiro Frio, there are plenty of other interesting things to do and see more. . .
Madeira Weather Forecast & Information
Get the Madeira weather forecast and related weather information
Get the weather forecast for Funchal, Porto Santo and other locations in Madeira.
Other weather information is provided as well. Including: average daily temperatures; average maximum and minimum daily temperatures; average number of hours sunshine and average monthly rainfall.
The information given is collated from data collected over many years and shows useful weather trends for those planning to book a holiday.
Do not book your holiday without this vital information more. . .
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