Discover Madeira - all the shades of green in the Atlantic
It has a year-round temperate climate, great food, locally grown wine and breathtaking sceneries with beautiful landscapes with all the shades of green and blue.
A small island with a great history dating back to the 15th century that has been attracting travellers for more than 100 years.
Unique landscapes and nature
When it comes to nature you will find plenty of landscapes on the Island that will take your breath away. From the Levadas, to the Laurissilva Forest - classified as a World Natural Heritage Site by UNESCO due to the biodiversity of endemic Fauna and Flora - going through the Natural Pools of Porto Moniz, the incredible Porto Santo beach or the amazing blue sea for a swim. There is a lot to see and discover!
The Levada Walks are one of the most popular things to do in Madeira and for a good reason. They will take you through the Island's most luxurious vegetation and views. As these walks are so popular an effort has been made to classify the various paths, from accessible to beginners to the most difficult with all the details included (length, transportation to the beginning point, difficulty level, etc.
With more than 2000km of tracks to choose from, there is something for all tastes. Balcões is an easy one, great for all families with striking views of forest-covered hillsides and a breathtaking view point at the end. For a longer-hike the 25 Fontes is perfect for a longer walk through high forests that culminates with a beautiful lagoon surrounded by waterfalls.
One of our go to sites to check which walk to do is this one (walkmeguide.com)
Flower Festival
Funchal Harbour
Barreirinha Pool Complex
Old Town Restaurants
Eat & Drink
Welcome to our charming villas nestled in the picturesque Old Town Area, also known as Zona Velha, where tranquility meets convenience. Tucked away from the bustling noise, yet within a leisurely 3-5 minutes' stroll to an array of restaurants and bars, our villas offer the perfect blend of seclusion and accessibility. Don't forget to explore the mesmerizing painted doors adorning the streets and immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of the locals.
Embark on a culinary journey through the vibrant flavors of Madeira cuisine. Indulge in the freshness of locally caught tuna or savor the unique taste of black scabbard, often paired with regional bananas. Treat your taste buds to the delightful Lapas, reminiscent of the ocean's bounty, or relish the traditional Espetada, grilled to perfection on skewers over hot coals, complemented by the flavorful Milho Frito. And no meal is complete without the iconic Bolo do Caco, a staple of Madeiran bread.
Discover the bounty of fresh fruits that flourish on the island, with Mercado dos Lavradores just a short 7-10 minutes' walk away. Lose yourself in a vibrant tapestry of colors and aromas as local farmers showcase their small-scale productions, particularly on Fridays and Saturdays. From succulent passion fruits to juicy papayas and the renowned bananas de prata, indulge in the island's natural treasures. Don't miss the chance to admire the historic architecture of the market, a testament to the Estado Novo era.
As our guest, your experience is our priority. Upon arrival, we provide you with our curated book of insider tips, featuring our favorite restaurants and must-visit attractions. Let us guide you through an unforgettable journey, where every moment is infused with the essence of Madeira's rich culture and culinary delights.
Fort São Tiago
Fort Sunrise
Municipal Market
Municipal Fish Market
Around the Island:
Sled Ride
Riding a wicker basket set on greased wooden runners t’s a local tradition in Funchal, where the carros de cestotoboggans have been transporting people and goods from Monte to the town below since the mid 19th century.
You have to trust the Carreiros and they will lead the way and be the engine and brakes of the "Carro de Cesto".
Calheta:
Don´t miss a visit to Casa das Mudas which is an art museum that has won several international prizes for it´s architecture project by Paulo David. When you are there try a meal at Socalco Hotel by Chef Ocatvio Freitas.
Ponta do Sol:
Have afternoon tea at the Design Hotel after lunch at the Old Pharmacy.
Câmara de Lobos:
Câmara de Lobos has a beautiful bay worth visiting. You will definitely feel among the locals. Try a Poncha (the traditional beverage). When we are there we enjoy going to the traditional Vila do Peixe, Vila da Carne or Praia do Vigário restaurants. Up the hill you also have the famous espetada restaurants like O Viola, As Vides or O Lagar.
Fajã dos Padres:
Take the cable car down to Fajã dos Padres for a one day experience. Spend the day swimming and have lunch at the restaurant where they served the fish from local fishermen and the products grown at the Fajã. Don´t forget to make a reservation (www.fajadospadres.com)
Jardim do Mar and Paul do Mar
Surfers should head to pretty Jardim do Mar, named among the best big-wave point breaks in the world but these localities are much more than the sea. You can go through Jardim do Mar small streets to see the houses and the flowers and visit the Igreja Paroquial de Nossa Senhora do Rosário and the Capela de Nossa Senhora da Piedade.
At Paul do Mar don´t miss Maktub restaurant for a meal after a swim or for a cocktail while you enjoy the sunset.
Porto Moniz:
Don´t skip a visit to Porto Moniz and a swim at the natural pools. The north side landscape and old roads for itself are worth the visit.
Seixal:
Go for a swim or at least for a photo at the Seixal Beach. Seixal is one of the most beautiful beaches, its fine black sand framed by mountains and jagged cliffs.
Once there you can have lunch at Sol Mar a typical restaurant. Don´t miss the Limpets rice.
São Vicente/Ponta Delgada:
If you are on this side go for lunch at Many. Traditional regional food with a very nice exterior place.
Machico:
The small harbor and downtown Machico is worth the visit followed by lunch/dinner at Maré Alta, one of our favorite fish restaurants on the Island.
Caniçal:
Don´t miss a visit to the extreme point of the island where you can see the north and south sea on the same viewpoint.
You have several small and nice restaurants at the Villa such as O Amarelo, Muralhas or o Pescador all very typical
You can also visit the most East point of the Island and have a snack at Casa .do Sardinha (the surroundings are amazing) but you can only go either by foot or boat www.madeiraseaemotions.com (among others).
Porto Santo
With its golden sandy beaches and gently lapping turquoise sea, it's only 2h30 hours away by ferry or 20 minutes by plane. Porto Santo Line (www.portosantoline.pt) offers one day trips.