Situated at the heart of the Atlantic Ocean, Madeira Islands offer a world of possibilities for exploration
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Anonym |
This article was first published in the Itinerary Planning Special Report 2016. All information was correct at the time of printing, but may since have changed.
Madeira, which gives its name to a group of islands, holds an incomparable beauty along with history and traditions that have contributed to its recognition worldwide as ‘the floating garden’. Just a step away from Europe, this exuberant and subtropical archipelago is surrounded by natural scenery including miles of quiet beaches, verdant peaks and a deep blue sea with tranquil and warm currents.
Madeira Islands invite visitors to relax and enjoy an untouched nature filled with pure and balmy scents. Visitors can get to know Madeira by climbing to the top of a mountain to enjoy breathtaking views, or following the trails and paths in the Laurissilva Forest – a UNESCO World Heritage site – along its enchanting levadas (irrigation channels) in a unique encounter with the island’s soul.
For more energetic visitors there is scuba-diving, surfing, windsurfing, trekking or canyoning. A tour around the island provides many places to stop off and admire the landscape or enjoy a traditional gastronomic delicacy.
Madeira’s capital, Funchal, offers a cosy and cosmopolitan ambiance. Those who stroll its picturesque, flower-filled streets will discover ancient cobblestone plazas and architectural treasures which date back to the time of its discovery.
Madeira Islands also offer a unique, internationally recognised tourism entertainment calendar which includes events such as the carnival, flower festival, Atlantic festival, wine festival, Columbus festival and the Madeira Nature Festival. Stunning Christmas and New Year celebrations culminate in an impressive fireworks display on the night of the 31 December which was recognised by Guinness World Records in 2006 as the best fireworks display in the world.
The island of Porto Santo is just 40km from Madeira, only 15 minutes by plane or 2.5 hours by ferry. Known as the Golden Island, Porto Santo is blessed with 9km of fine, unpolluted sandy beach washed by a clear, calm sea.
Madeira is a multifaceted and unique destination characterised by the art of hospitality, a cosmopolitan lifestyle and tradition, in a setting that combines tranquility with vitality all year round.