Rally

HIKE IN THE EMERALD GREEN LEVADAS THROUGH THE LAURISILVA

Madeira is a delight for walkers and hikers.  A network of hiking trails follow more than 1,300 miles (2,092 kilometers) of narrow stone irrigation channels known as levadas criss-crossing Madeira's mountainous countryside. Many lead into the Laurisilva forest, a remnant of the semi-tropical vegetation that covered the island before Portuguese explorers arrived in 1419.

TASTE THE ELIXIR OF THE AGES

Early settlers from Portugal established vineyards, and their global discoveries and exploration set up the wine trade. Knowing that the best way to preserve wine for shipping was by fortification with brandy, they also discovered that heating the oak barrels improved both the depth and flavour of the precious liquid. Thus was born the island’s most famous export which soon became the wines de riguer at the best tables in Europe and America.  Taste it and salute like the founding fathers of the U.S. Constitution toasted, with Madeira Wine.

PLUNGE INTO BLACK LAVA POOLS

Swim in the calm crystal clear waters of Madeira.  An unforgettable vacation experience is to dive or snorkel in the beautiful underwater nature reserves in the world. There are fantastic attractions for divers of all levels of experience.  If surf is your thrill, the volcanic origin of the island makes for an unforgettable challenge for all levels of expertise in riding the waves  

Roast espetada over hot coals

Despite being surrounded by seafood-rich waters, the islanders' favorite dish is by far and unashamedly carnivorous.  Espetada, its famous dish, on its own or accompanied with small cubes of corn meal and salad,  involves spearing small chunks of garlic-and-salt-rubbed beef with a stick cut from laurel trees, then roasting it over hot coals.  The mouth-watering experience will challenge anyone to savour it.

Enjoy the flowers

The island is a garden, and the Jardim Botanico da Madeira, which overflows with over 3,000 plant types, is not to be missed. The gardens spread around a quinta (estate) built by a British family in the 1880s that enjoys sweeping views over Funchal.

Drink poncha

Madeira is well known for its wines; however locals celebrate many occasions with a potent brew called poncha.  It's traditionally made from aguardente de cana (sugar cane island rum) freshly squeezed lemon juice and honey, although passionfruit, tangerine or other fruits add variety to the choices. 

Eat lapas

For seafood lovers, there are few experiences better than dining beneath a starlit-sky with the sea at their feet. As an appetizer at dinner or with a local Coral beer near the beach,  lapas  –  chewy limpets broiled in butter and garlic sprinkled with fresh squeezed lemon juice – make the moment extraordinary.

Walk among the clouds.

Madeira is has two stunning mountains to climb the top, Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo.  The hike between the two peeks are a “must do”.  Even if it is overcast in Funchal, the steep climb means cars struggle to get out of third gear, but the climb is worth it when the road emerges onto a sunlit plateau broken by bare peaks that poke through fluffy white cloud.

Challenge your thrills

For those not competing in Rali Vinho da Madeira, the wicker basket cars are undoubtedly the most typical means of transport in Madeira, being nowadays made available to visitors in a 2 km descent full of emotion!

BASK IN THE GOLDEN SAND OF PORTO SANTO

Some say Madeira lack the traditionally envisioned sandy beaches however it has plenty of golden sand a few hours away by ferry or literally 15 minutes by plane.  Despite the summer being the high season for sun worshipers, the sand and its water are sought my many for its therapeutic properties.