Known as the Pearl of the Atlantic, there’s a lot to explore on the island of Madeira. Here’s a list of 10 must-visit attractions that combine both iconic places and new spots.
Discovering Madeira doesn’t have to necessarily involve caravels or a crew, like it did in the 15th century. Nowadays, all you need is a good itinerary, enough time and the right hotel in Madeira.
Madeira Botanical Garden, Funchal
Covering an area of around eight hectares, this botanical garden boasts lush combinations of colours and flowers, as well as a breathtaking vista of the Atlantic and coastline.
Farmers’ Market, Funchal
The first thing that strikes visitors to this market is the wide variety of smells and colours. Located in the heart of Funchal, the island’s capital, the place sells a wide range of things, including exotic fruits and flowers, nuts, dehydrated and caramelised fruits, juices, vegetables and handicrafts. Anyone entering the Mercado dos Lavradores feels all their senses stand to attention, ready to discover more.
The Natural Pools of Porto Moniz
Porto Moniz is undoubtedly one of the main attractions on Madeira’s north coast, and it’s easy to see why. For those lucky to visit, the view from the top is stunning and more beautiful the closer you get.
Traditional Houses in Santana
These constructions boast unmistakable triangular façades, roofs that stretch from top to bottom and a palette of distinctive colours. They usually combine white walls with red stripes and blue borders, making these particular Santana houses one of the island’s ex-libris.
Levada Hikes
Madeira is ideal for those who love nature, and the levadas (the island’s unique irrigation channels) are perfect for those who enjoy hiking, adventure and tranquillity. These walks are a vital part of the Madeiran landscape, blending sea, mountain, waterfalls and forest.
Quinta do Barbusano, São Vicente
To the surprise of some, Madeira wines aren’t limited to the famous and fabulous fortified wines that bear the archipelago’s name. A fine example is Quinta do Barbusano, which produces table wines that deserve to be discovered and enjoyed. The guided tours also include a gastronomic experience, which includes the typical laurel stick with boiled potatoes.
Anjos Waterfall, Ponta do Sol
If you take the Estrada Regional 101 road near Ponta do Sol, you’ll come across the impressive Anjos Waterfall. Standing over 30 metres tall, the water spills onto the road or directly over the hillside and into the sea, depending on the intensity and volume of the flow. It’s an ephemeral place to visit and should be seen at least once when visiting Madeira.
Calhau da Lapa, Ribeira Brava
Located at the mouth of the Campanário stream, this special place has been closed to bathers in recent months. That said, this ‘pebble’ beach is well worth seeing for its beauty, not to mention enjoying the peace and quiet that envelops it – even if it’s from a safe distance. The walk along the path that traverses the cliffs and takes you close by is worth the effort alone.
Cabo Girão, Câmara de Lobos
Not recommended for people with vertigo, this is a must for others, who can enjoy looking at the horizon from one of the most stunning panoramic viewpoints on the island. In addition to the view, the structure is unusual because it’s transparent at the edge, not to mention that it’s located 580 metres up, requiring nerves of steel and a dose of adventurous spirit.
Pico Ruivo, Santana
The highest point in Madeira and the third highest in the whole of Portugal is located at an altitude of 1,862 metres and great for contemplation. It’s not for the faint hearted but the reward is more than generous, with its overwhelming view.