| MADEIRA |
Rising like a green miracle from the Atlantic off the Moroccan
coast, some one thousand kilometres south west of Lisbon, Madeira
has been a holiday destination since the end of the 19th century.
Blessed with a spectacular volcanic landscape and subtropical
climate, the island boasts more repeat visitors than any other
part of Portugal.
But Madeira is mostly synonymous with its rich, fruity wine
of the same name, which has been made on the island for hundreds
of years. Visitors to the Old Blandy Wine Lodge can buy Vintage
Madeira from every decade as far back as the mid 19th century,
while the oldest surviving bottle dates back to 1772.
The capital, Funchal, is an enchanting town set on a glittering
bay against a background of soaring green mountains. Its historic
core overlooks the harbour and features some fine government
buildings and stately 18th century mansions.
Visitors shouldn't miss a tour of the botanical gardens located
on the edge of the city, after which we suggest the famous Monte
toboggan ride back into town.
East of the city and rising to a height of almost 600 metres
is Cabo Girão, the world's second-highest sea cliff.
The rest of the island is easily reachable from Funchal, including
the characteristic triangle-shaped houses at Santana on the
north coast, and the secluded deep-valley location of Curral
das Freiras, where nuns sought refuge from invading pirates
in the mid 16th century.
Tourists travelling to the neighbouring island of Porto Santo
will find a long sandy beach and the house where Christopher
Columbus lived prior to setting sail for America. He married
the governor's daughter in 1479.
Besides being known for their healing qualities, the beach and
surrounding waters of Porto Santo are ideal for all types of
water sports, including windsurfing and deep-sea diving. |
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| © 2007 Maisturismo |
