The Beautiful Island of Madeira

Madeira lies in the Atlantic ocean west of Morocco and north of The Canary Islands. The largest of the Portuguese Islands and is some 600 miles from Lisbon. Madeira is roughly twice the size of The Isle of Wight. The Islands highest point Pico Ruivo (6106ft) is 1700 ft higher than Ben Nevis. Total population 267,000. The Islands capital Funchal has lots to offer including museums and gardens open to the public and tickets for these are available from the tourist information office. Visitors can also see how Madeiran wine is made at the Adegas de Sao Francisco. Next door is the Jardim de Sao Francisco, an area of lovely landscaped gardens. The Cathedral was built between 1485 and 1515. The interior includes carved ceilings with Moorish influences and beautifully carved 16th century choir stalls. Why not take a trip from the seafront to Monte to visit the Monte Palace and the Tropical Gardens or Jardim Botanico. Getting around is quite easy by public transport in Madeira regular services are available from the seafront with inexpensive tickets available from the kiosk. Car hire is available although the mountain roads require a lot of care and an up to date map is essential. Beyond Funchal there are lots of things to do. Although Madeira lacks sandy beaches swimming pools and tennis courts are open to non residents in the major hotels. If golf is your thing there are two challenging courses at Club de Golf Santo da Serra  and Palheiro. Clubs and buggies can be hired at both courses. There are many pleasant walks through the hills following old irrigation channels called levadas. These are graded from 1 the easiest to 4 the hardest for experienced walkers. Boat trips from the marina are also available if you wish to go whale or dolphin watching or even deep sea fishing. Whatever you choose to do in Madeira have fun. To book a holiday to Madeira or anywhere else give Carol a call on 01535 662015 or email carol@designertravel.co.uk