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Madeira

Madeira

Portugal · Europe

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About Madeira

Madeira isn't your typical beach island, and that's exactly what makes it interesting. The coastline is mostly dramatic volcanic cliffs plunging into the Atlantic, which means the beaches are either volcanic black sand or imported golden sand — Porto Santo island, a short ferry ride away, has nine kilometers of natural golden beach. What Madeira does better than almost anywhere is hiking: over 200 kilometers of levada trails follow centuries-old irrigation channels through laurel forests, along cliff edges, and past waterfalls. Funchal, the capital, punches above its weight with Michelin-starred restaurants, a Cristiano Ronaldo museum (he's from here), and poncha bars serving the local rum-and-passionfruit cocktail for three euros. Average temperatures hover between 18-25 degrees Celsius year-round, making Madeira a genuine four-season destination.

Highlights

  • 1Hike the levada trails through ancient laurel forests
  • 2Swim at the volcanic rock pools in Porto Moniz
  • 3Ferry to Porto Santo for nine kilometers of golden sand beach
  • 4Taste poncha cocktails in Funchal's old town bars
  • 5Drive to Pico do Arieiro for sunrise above the clouds

Articles About Madeira