Madeira - My Favourite Island
Discovering the Magic of Madeira in October
October in Madeira is unlike anywhere else in the world. Imagine waking up to clear skies with the sun gently warming the day up to a perfect 28 degrees Celsius. This is the essence of Madeira in October, a time when the island reveals its most enchanting side, making it my top recommendation for anyone seeking an unforgettable travel experience.
The Culinary Delights of Madeira
One cannot simply talk about Madeira without mentioning its culinary wonders. The classic Madeiran Bolo do Caco, a bread like no other, served warm with garlic butter and steak, is a flavor that stays with you. But that's just the beginning. The Pastel de Natas, creamy and rich, alongside exotic fruits that are rare gems outside this island, make the food scene here simply incredible.
Fresh Fruits and Vegetables on offer at Mercado dos Lavradores.
The Serene Stay at Hotel Next
Our stay at the newly renovated Hotel Next was nothing short of serene. Nestled amidst the exotic flora and fauna that Madeira is famed for, the hotel offers an escape into a lush paradise. Its pool area, coupled with a rooftop bar featuring live music, provided the perfect relaxation spot, embracing the year-round tropical climate that Madeira boasts. The seafront access is a dream for anyone who loves a dip in the ocean, even in late October.
Adventures in Madeira
The adventures Madeira offers are as varied as they are thrilling. Our 4x4 trip to Pico Arieiro, the island's second-highest peak, was a highlight. The journey included a stop at the breathtaking Nun's Valley, a spectacle nestled among the clouds.
The Stunning Nun’s Valley
As a seasoned visitor, I urge you to base yourself in Funchal, the island's capital. It's a city that pulsates with life, from the grandeur of the Savoy Palace and its rooftop Galaxia Sky Bar offering panoramic views, to the quaint charm of the old town with its hand-painted doors and cobbled streets.
The Unique Monte Palace Gardens
A visit to Madeira would be incomplete without exploring the Monte Palace Tropical Garden. Hop on the cable car and enjoy the views of Funchal as you are carried up to Monte. This lush oasis hosts a variety of exotic plants, thematic gardens, and artworks that blend harmoniously with nature, offering a tranquil escape and stunning vistas at every turn.
Cable cars coming up the mountain from Funchal to Monte.
The Black Sand Beaches and Natural Pools of Porto Moniz
A journey to Madeira would be incomplete without experiencing the unique charm of Porto Moniz. Renowned for its breathtaking black sand beaches and spectacular natural swimming pools, this locale offers a natural retreat that feels otherworldly. Carved out by volcanic lava, the pools provide a safe haven for swimming, surrounded by the Atlantic's crystal-clear waters. The contrast of the black volcanic rock against the azure sea creates a stunning visual spectacle, making it a must-visit for photographers and nature lovers alike.
The beaches, with their distinctive black sand, offer a serene and intimate setting for sunbathing or a quiet stroll. Porto Moniz simply embodies the essence of Madeira's natural beauty.
Natural Pools at Porto Moniz
A Madeiran Tradition: The Toboggan Ride
Perhaps the most unique experience in Madeira is the toboggan ride from Monte. This exhilarating descent in a wooden basket dates back to the 19th century and is a must-do for any visitor. The ride involves sliding down steep, winding streets on a sledge made of wicker and wood, steered by two skilled men dressed in traditional white cotton clothes and straw hats, known as "Carreiros".
You'll be treated to breath-taking views of Funchal over the 2-kilometer journey, starting from Monte and ending in the Livramento area, offering a unique and memorable way to see the city.
The Monte Toboggan Ride is a testament to Madeira's spirit of innovation and its deep-rooted traditions, providing visitors with an experience that is as unique as it is exhilarating.
The Monte Toboggan Ride
Exploring Funchal's Market Life
Mercado dos Lavradores, in the heart of Funchal, is a testament to Madeira's rich agricultural heritage. This vibrant market is where you'll find an array of local produce, from dried chilies to exotic fresh fruit and vegetables. The back of the market even allows you to see fisherman haul in their catches of black scabbard fish, a local delicacy.
The Verdict
Madeira in October is a revelation. Its blend of pleasant weather, culinary delights, serene settings, breathtaking adventures, and unique traditions make it a destination like no other. Whether you're navigating the winding roads to Porto Moniz, exploring the historic streets of Funchal, or gliding down from Monte in a traditional toboggan, Madeira offers an experience that is both enriching and exhilarating.
So, pack your bags, Madeira awaits to offer you a journey that will linger in your memories long after you've returned home.