Just a four-hour flight from London is one of Europe’s top hidden gems – Madeira. It sits in the North Atlantic Ocean boasting jaw-dropping, volcanic landscapes, stunning subtropical vegetation and enchanting waterfalls.
Think Jurassic Park, but minus the dinosaurs! This sub-tropical climate consists of gorgeously hot summers and mild, sunny winters making it an incredible holiday location, no matter the season. You can enjoy breathtaking hikes in the mountain ranges, natural swimming spots and an open-armed, relaxed culture. With two-thirds of the island classified as a protected area, it is home to rare plants and bursting with wildlife. You can expect incredible and diverse scenery to be the backdrop to your holiday memories – and photos!
Madeira is a natural paradise, but also has activities to suit the whole family. If you’re looking for excitement, you can try the well-known Monte sledges where locals meet you at the staircase of Monte Church for a wild ride! The sledges look like wicker baskets crossed with Santa’s sleigh and are raced down through the town’s beautiful cobbled streets. You’ll pass picturesque cafes, shops and restaurants during the 2km journey with speeds up to 40km/h – hold on tight!
Madeira is also the home town of football celebrity, Cristiano Ronaldo. If you want to find out more about his exceptional career then head to the amazing CR7 museum full of memorabilia, including more than 100
trophies for you to peruse. It sits right on the beautiful coast of Funchal with stunning views for all to enjoy.
The island is also home to many species of wonderful marine life including Bottlenose Dolphins, Sperm Whales and turtles. There are several viewpoints around the island where you can look out for them, including the scenic Ponta de Pargo lighthouse which offers breathtaking, panoramic views of the Atlantic. If you prefer to get up close though, there are several boat trips which will take you to well-known dolphin and whale feeding spots. These unforgettable experiences start at just €30pp and most will take you out for 3 hours to ensure you get plenty of time with these spectacular creatures.
Hiking:
Over the past few years, seeing the sunrise at Pico Ruivo, Madeira’s highest peak, has become one of the most popular pastimes on the island. The hike is not for the faint of heart but the views from above the clouds are truly awesome. The trek takes 1.5 hours to complete and takes you through the dry mountain ranges, along the coast and to what feels like an entirely new world.
There are hiking trails dotted all over the island, many of which are suitable for families with younger children. All of which have breathtaking views. Many tourists choose shorter hikes for their children and even babies and toddlers can enjoy the treks in carriers.
Waterfalls:
There are 12 magnificent waterfalls to discover across Madeira. From the mountaintop waterfall at the end of the 3.6km Levada Alecrim trail, where you can swim in the crystal waters to the Anjos Waterfall, Ponta de Sol which cuts through the coastal road, there really is a waterfall for everyone. You can easily find yourself driving along and suddenly stopping for an unexpected gem so make sure you pack up your swimmers and have them at the ready.
You’ll be in for some fantastic adventures! The tallest Madeiran waterfall is the Véu da Noiva (Bride’s Veil) with a 30-metre drop. The viewpoint on the north of the island allows us to see the water load gushing down the slope, resembling (you guessed it!) a stunning bride’s veil.
In fact, Madeira has become a popular destination for elopement weddings in recent years. The rustic scenery and quaint towns make for unforgettable memories and striking photos. No two weddings would ever look the same here!
So, whether you’re looking for adventure, a moment of stillness or even your wedding location, Madeira is sure to create unforgettable moments that will last you a lifetime.
Written by Marion Zielentino, STONES Editor, Sanders and Jay
