We've just returned from two unforgettable weeks on Madeira, a petite Atlantic island gem. Its subtropical climate delivers stable weather and mild temperatures year-round, nurturing lush, diverse vegetation. Ideal for a refreshing getaway—just 3.5 hours from Paris by flight.
1. Hike Through Breathtaking Landscapes
Madeira is world-famous for its exceptional hiking trails, detailed in the authoritative Rother guide. With options for every skill level amid subtropical forests, cascading waterfalls, and rugged peaks, it's hiking paradise. Even with our non-hiking kids (ages 8 and 5), we conquered 25 Fontes, Pico Ruivo, and Caldeirão Verde—check our dedicated article for details.
2. Swim in Stunning Natural Pools and Beaches
We swam daily during our stay—in the ocean or pools. This volcanic island offers pebble beaches like Madalena do Mar and Ponta do Sol (pack beach shoes or flip-flops; try Baloo's ice cream!), plus rare sands: artificial white at Calheta and striking black volcanic at surfer-favorite Seixal.
Seawater pools abound: Câmara de Lobos (sea access), Ponta Delgada (kids' play areas), Santa Cruz (plane-spotting views), and iconic Porto Moniz (ocean-fed basins, €1-2 entry). For family fun, Gaula Aquapark's slides cost €20 for two adults and two kids.
Salinas Pools, Câmara de Lobos, Madeira
Seixal Beach, Madeira
Ponta do Sol Beach, Madeira
Porto Moniz Pools, Madeira
3. Savor Local Culinary Delights
Food is a travel highlight for us. Madeira shines with three essentials:
– Bolo do caco: Sweet potato bread rolls, everywhere from streets to restaurants.
– Filete de espada com banana: Deep-sea black scabbardfish with bananas; our favorite at Mare Alta in Ponta do Sol with passion fruit sauce.
– Lapas: Grilled limpets, perfect as starters or aperitifs.
4. Ride the Iconic Wicker Sleds Down Funchal's Hills
Since 1850, carrinhos de Monte have whisked locals from Monte to Funchal in wicker sleds, guided by carreiros using rubber-soled shoes. Now a thrilling tourist ride (10 minutes, 2km).
Save money: Park at Funchal's historic center cable car base (cheap daily), ride up (add botanical garden if desired), sled from Nossa Senhora do Monte church. €30 for two; €45 with kids. Walk or taxi back (30 mins on foot).
5. Soar Above Cabo Girão, One of the World's Highest Sea Cliffs
Near charming Câmara de Lobos, this 580m cliff boasts a glass skywalk with vertigo-inducing views of terraced farmlands below.
6. Drive Under (or Swim Beneath) a Roadside Waterfall
On ER101 between Madalena do Mar and Ponta do Sol, tunnels lead to a waterfall cascading onto the road—prime for a refreshing drench!
7. Explore Exotic Fruits at Funchal's Vibrant Mercado dos Lavradores
This colorful market brims with tropical produce. Tourist prices, but browsing the stalls is free and eye-opening.
8. Marvel at Madeira's Floral Extravaganza
Bird-of-paradise, agapanthus, ferns, arums, amaryllis, nasturtium-covered banks, frangipani—and endless unknowns blooming daily.
9. Pick Up Basic Portuguese Phrases
Not Spanish—Portuguese differs. Funchal accommodates English/French, but remoter spots need "Olá," "Bom dia," "Obrigado/a." Google Translate saves the day (even for "anti-piolhos" lice treatment!).
10. Wander Madeira's Charming Villages
Just 55km east-west and 24km north-south, yet steep terrain means scenic drives (e.g., hour from São Vicente north to Funchal south). Favorites: São Vicente and vertigo-road to Santana via northeast coast.
