What shouldn't you miss on Madeira Island?
On Madeira, don't miss sunrise above the clouds at Pico do Arieiro, a hike along a levada through the UNESCO-listed Laurisilva forest, the Mercado dos Lavradores and the Monte toboggan in Funchal, a swim in the Porto Moniz rock pools, and a glass of poncha with espetada and bolo do caco.
Experiences, not just places
- Sunrise at Pico do Arieiro: drive up in the dark and watch the sun rise over a sea of clouds.
- A levada trail: the old irrigation channels give flat paths through the laurel forest. 25 Fontes and Caldeirão Verde are the classics; both need a permit.
- The Laurisilva: Madeira's ancient laurel forest is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999; Fanal Forest is the easiest place to see its ancient trees.
- Funchal's market and the Monte toboggan: exotic fruit at the Mercado dos Lavradores, then a ride down from Monte in a wicker sled.
- The sea pools: swim in the volcanic pools at Porto Moniz, or in Funchal's lidos.
- Local food: espetada (beef on a bay-wood skewer), bolo do caco bread with garlic butter, fresh fish, and poncha, the island's rum, honey and lemon drink.
If you are there at the right time
The New Year fireworks over Funchal bay are among the largest in the world. In spring the Flower Festival fills Funchal's streets; in late summer the Wine Festival celebrates the harvest.
Plan around the permits
The trails at Pico do Arieiro, 25 Fontes, Caldeirão Verde and Ponta de São Lourenço all need a dated permit. Popular time slots sell out in busy months, so book them first.
FAQ
- What shouldn't you miss on Madeira?
- Sunrise at Pico do Arieiro, a levada trail through the Laurisilva, Funchal's market and toboggan, the Porto Moniz pools, and poncha with espetada.
- What food is Madeira known for?
- Espetada, bolo do caco, black scabbard fish (espada), tropical fruit and poncha.
- What is a levada?
- An irrigation channel cut along the mountainsides. The paths beside them are now some of the island's best-known hiking trails.