Madeira (Funchal), Portugal
Description
View cruises with Madeira (Funchal), PortugalThe capital of Madeira is named after the fennel (funcha) that once flowered there in profusion. The largest island in the Madeira Archipelago was discovered in 1419 by Portuguese explorers venturing south into the Atlantic. The island is nearly equidistant from Lisbon and the African coast, and its unique geographical position allowed Madeira to play a pivotal role in European discovery. Seamen such as Christopher Columbus gained knowledge and experience plying the routes of the island's sugar trade. When sugar declined, the island's famed wines continued to provide a robust trade. By the late 18th century, Madeira's mild climate, rocky peaks, and lush valleys provided a winter haven to Europe's aristocrats. Visitors still flock to the island today, drawn by its scenery and its weather.
Funchal is noted for its superb hand-embroidery and wicker ware, both Madeira specialties. The island, of course, is also noted for its superb wines: they are perhaps the world's most complex and long lasting wines.
Points of Interest
- Monte
- Wine-tasting
- Cable-car
- Toboggan Rides
- Botanical Garden
- Ribeira Brava
- Cabo Girão
- Island Drive
More about Madeira (Funchal), Portugal Points of Interest
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Monte -
This small village overlooks Funchal and was originally a health resort for Europe's high society. Take the flight of stairs to Nossa Senhora do Monte at the top for an impressive view.
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Wine-tasting -
No trip to Madeira would be complete without a visit to one of Funchal's wine lodges for a wine sampling. Vintages range from a dry Sercial to a rich and fruity Malmsey.
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Cable-car -
The Funchal to Monte cable-car ride takes approximately 15 minutes to ride. It is 12,000 feet long with a vertical rise of 1,837 feet, and provides stunning views in Maderia's most remote areas. As a means of downhill transport, these sledges appeared around 1850. Today, they attract tourists who want to experience sliding at high speed on narrow, winding streets down to Funchal.
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Toboggan Rides -
As a means of downhill transport, these sledges appeared around 1850. Today, they attract tourists who want to experience sliding at high speed on narrow, winding streets down to Funchal.
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Botanical Garden -
At Quinta do Bom Sucesso, the climate conditions are ideal and boast more than 2,000 plant species. It also has a Science and Culture Center and is home to some rare bird species.
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Ribeira Brava -
This small town's name means "wild stream" it was one of the first parishes on the island. Mainly a tourist town now, it features a host of charming street cafés and shops.
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Cabo Girão -
Known to be the highest sea-cliff in Europe and second in the world, with panoramic views of the ocean, the village of Camara de Lobos and Funchal in the distance.
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Island Drive -
Explore the scenic wonders of Madeira with a leisurely journey that showcases the island's dramatic sea cliffs, waterfalls, central plateau, and charming villages. Plenty of photo stops complete this memorable experience.
