Visit beautiful Madeira
Known for its famous wine and stunning scenery, this Portuguese island could be your perfect late summer getaway
Have a whale of a time
Get up close to nature with an unforgettable catamaran cruise to spot whales, dolphins and maybe even sea turtles in their natural habitat. This three-hour cruise will also give you a chance to relax and take in the scenery as it sails along the south coast of Madeira. ■ Daily, €35 for adults, €17.50 for children. Call 351 963 796 860
Glorious Gardens
Did you know that Madeira boasts some of the most exotic botanical gardens in Europe? Experience the beauty of these peaceful gardens as you overlook the capital city of Funchal. Make your trip even more dramatic by arriving via cable car! Gardens open daily.
■ Cable-car round trips €12,75 for adults and €8,25 for children. Under-6s travel free. Find out more at www.telefericojardimbotanico.com
■ Entry to the gardens €6 for adults, €2 for children up to 12 years. Under-6s free. Visit www.visitfunchal.pt
Wine away the hours!
A trip to Madeira isn’t complete without a visit to one of its historic wineries. Blandy’s Wine Lodge has been making the world-renowned Madeira wine for 200 years, and visitors can make the most of their trip with a guided tour. Located in the capital of Funchal, learn about the history of the wine including making process, how it’s best stored and of course a full tasting session!
■ The 45-minute Premium Tour, Mon-Sat, costs €5,90. Call (+351) 291 228 978 or visit www. blandyswinelodge.com to book
Taste of the sea
Eating the fresh fish of Madeira is a must for seafood lovers. Lareira Portuguesa in Funchal offers diners a wide range of fish dishes for a fair price as well as some of Madeira’s more traditional dishes.
■ Visit the website at www.marisqueiralareiraportuguesa. pt or call (+351) 291 762 911
Grab a toboggan
It doesn’t often snow in Maderia but surprisingly you can travel the island on a toboggan! Madeirans have been using this method of downhill transportation for more than 100 years, so why not hop on a wicker sledge and let the carreiros (sledge drivers) power you down the hill? Voted one of the worlds ‘coolest commutes’ it’s one not to be missed!
■ Call +351 291 783 919 or visit www.carreirosdomonte.com
Safari tour
If you’re not a big walker but still want to experience the natural beauty of Madeira off the beaten track, why not explore the stunning landscapes on a Jeep Safari tour? Choose from either a half-day or full-day tour of certain areas of the island and let your tour guide do the rest of the work.
■ Tours start from €25 for adults and €12,50 for children (up to aged ten) for a half-day tour. Call +351 291 635 505 or visit www.lido-tours.com
Go to market
Madeira has the ideal climate for growing some of the world’s most delicious fruits. Take a trip to the local market in the village of Santo da Serra. Every weekend, the locals set up their market stalls along the main road, selling a huge range of goods.
■ If you’re a foodie, don’t miss the delicious wares of local farmers. Open every Sunday