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For an island as relatively small as Madeira there is a wealth of places to see and things to do. Almost everywhere has an interesting history, association or natural sight or is worth visiting because it is so beautiful and picturesque.
Funchal is hugely important on the island, and not only because it is the commercial and governmental hub. It is also stunningly located in an amphitheatre formed by the mountains behind it, one of the few places on this island, which is basically a huge mountain range rising out the ocean, where such a city could have been built. Evidence of its 500 years of history is to be found all over the city and most visitors remark on how clean and neat it is.
The interior has stunning landscapes and settlements and the north of the island, receiving the most rain, is even more verdant than the rest of this “floating garden”. The western area used to be the least visited part but the new infrastructure means that the unspoilt settlements can be reached by a beautiful road along the coast. And towards the east you’ll find some of the most important features of what makes Madeira special: history, dramatic landscapes and unique flora, in the ancient, protected Laurissilva Forests. For a complete change, Porto Santo offers an 8 km long sandy beach, covered with bars and restaurants and an excellent golf course.
Far from being only a city or resort destination, the whole of Madeira rewards the traveller with unique attractions.
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