Your flight to Funchal introduces you to the Portuguese island of Madeira and its capital city, founded in the 15th century. Breathe in the exotic scents of Madeira Botanical Gardens in Funchal and ride a toboggan downhill from Monte.
Step back in time at the Madeira Story Centre, in old Funchal, to discover the island’s volcanic origins, Portuguese discoveries and trade links. Explore the heart of Funchal at the Farmers’ Market, bursting with tropical flowers and proudly displaying its Estado Novo architecture.
Escape the crowds of Funchal on Porto Santo’s deserted beaches (40km from Madeira) or hike along the levada (water channel) trails that criss-cross Madeira. Or practise your swing at Pinheiro Golf Course, just east of Funchal.
The people of Funchal love their tuna steaks and espetadas (grilled meat on skewers). Try the filetes panados com bananas (swordfish fried with bananas), milho frito (fried corn bread) and bol de mel (Madeira cake). Madeira wine is the local speciality drink but sample some of the potent poncha de Madeira (lemon firewater) after dining in Funchal. |