Travel Guides: All Countries / Europe / Portugal / Madeira
 |  | Destination Guide : Madeira |
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| | | Island of flowers |  | Why go on holiday to Madeira?
The magical Atlantic island of Madeira boasts rugged natural beauty with a flower-strewn countryside basking in a sub-tropical climate. It's famous for its beautiful gardens, unusual tropical plants, wines, churches and museums.
Thanks to its towering green hills and mountains, it's also a popular destination for those in search of a walking holiday.
How much does it cost?
A seven-day self catering package starts at around £500 in July, hotels from £600 in the same period. Flights cost from £150. Prices do vary so be prepared to keep your eye out for bargains.
When should I go?
Madeira is warm throughout the year with averages of 18C (65F) in January rising to 27C (80F) in August. The busy season lasts from April to October, although June tends to be overcast.
Events to watch out for are the annual wine festival, in early September; the carnival in the first week of March; and the delightful flower festival in early May.
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| | | Thrilling toboggan rides |  | What should I do while I'm there?
Visit Funchal, the capital of Madeira. It has a magical backdrop of imposing mountains and deep valleys.
The city itself is picturesque, with an impressive cathedral and a maze of pretty cobbled streets lined with wine shops and traditional flower sellers.
The gardens at Monte and the Monte Palace Tropical Gardens are also worth a visit.
What if I'm feeling a bit more active?
Enjoy a ride on a Madeiran toboggan - carros de cestos - originally used at the beginning of the 19th century by British merchants.These days, the wicker toboggans are steered by two men, whisking tourists down the steep, cobbled streets of the capital.
The coastline, with its deep warm waters, is ideal for watersports such as sailing and deep sea fishing. There are also two excellent golf courses.
Didn't Winston Churchill hang out here?
Yes - he and his wife often used to stay in the spectacular Reids Palace Hotel in Funchal, which overlooks the sea. He relaxed while painting Camara da Lobos and the seacliffs of Cabo Girao, both just west of the capital.
Anything else I should know about?
There are no beaches on the island, but if you fancy a bit of sea and sand you can take a day-trip to the neighbouring "desert" island of Porto Santo (two hours by ferry).
At the far eastern end of Madeira is Ponta de Sao Lourenco, worth a visit for its dramatic views over the Atlantic. It rarely rains here and the landscape is quite different from the rest of the island.
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| | | Let them eat cake | | Where's good for nightlife?
Most of the nightlife on the island is found in Funchal. Pub Number Two, the Alfa Club and Salsa Latina are upmarket bars which all provide a good start to an evening out.
Clubs with a younger crowd are Do Fa Sol and Cafe do Teatro, both located in the downtown area, while The Fugitivo is the most popular nightclub on the island.
Night birds will want to head for the Copacabana at the casino, which stays open until 4am, and Vespas, which won't throw you out until 6 or 7am.
What's the food like?
Exquisite fresh fish from the Atlantic forms the basis of the tasty, local cuisine. The fortified wine that took the island's name, Madeira, particularly loved by the English aristocracy, is an unmissable treat.
Traditional English afternoon tea is served in the upmarket hotels, and fresh fruit and veg such as avocados, mangoes and passion fruit is plentiful.
What should I buy?
Freshly cut flowers on your way to the airport, locally-produced Madeira wine, wickerwork, embroidery and tapestry. Don't forget to pick up a fresh Madeira cake or two!
What is there for children to do?
Kids will enjoy the colourful carnival which takes place in the first week of March. Most hotels organise activities for children and have special separate swimming pools and menus.
Tourist office
Portuguese National Tourist Office, Portuguese Embassy, 11 Belgrave Square, London, SW1X 8PP. Tel: 0845 3551212.
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| | Available rental properties in Madeira |
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| |  | | "Villa Ricardo" with private pool and sea view.
A two-story house with private pool, located in a beautiful slope above the entrance of the village of Porto da Cruz, enjoying uninterrupted panoramic sea view.
|  | | Casa da Madeira, Sao Goncalo Villa. Quincy
Set in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean you will find a tranquil 2 bed. With stunning views to rent long or short term. Very spacious, clean, brand new
|  | | Casa da Madeira Funchal, Sao Goncalo Villa, Sydney
Madeira 2 bedroom house with stunning views of Funchal harbor spacious clean rooms. Ideal for family or 3 to 4 people sharing with modern living,very quite.
|  | | Villa Santos, Madeira Island
Modern villa, sunny & private south-facing has a large terraced area and private garden area with wonderful views over the atlantic ocean, and the "Desertas" Islands.
|  | | A Casa do Lagar
Situated in a peaceful and solitary area with a pleasant climate all year round, it has a spectacularly panoramic view of the sea and mountains.
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