Madeira life. Madera nightlife
- a mild climate, picturesque nature, gourmet cuisine and wines, as well as the largest New Year's fireworks in the world. More than 1,000,000 tourists visit the elite resort every year. In this regard, real estate in Madeira is expensive, but the choice of investment opportunities is quite attractive.
Geography and more
The Portuguese island of Madeira is located in the North Atlantic Ocean and was discovered in the 15th century, despite the fact that the island appeared on the maps in the 14th century. Madeira is located just 400 kilometers from the Canary Islands, 500 kilometers from Africa and 1000 kilometers from Portugal. The largest city and administrative center is Funchal. It is also considered the main harbor and a significant transit point. Length coastline islands - 150 kilometers.
Why Madeira?
One of the main features of the island is its mild climate, the average temperature of the hottest and coldest months differs by only 6 degrees. The annual average is 18.5 degrees above zero. Madeira is great for windsurfing, diving and hiking, with over 1,000 kilometers of hiking trails. The cost of living on the island is an order of magnitude lower than in Europe, while the education and healthcare systems are well developed.
As a popular tourist resort, the island became known in the 19th century; such famous personalities as Winston Churchill, Charlie Chaplin and Gregory Peck rested here at one time. The life of the modern island is inextricably linked with tourism. The infrastructure is constantly developing, new transport interchanges and trade networks appear regularly.
Madeira boasts a picturesque landscape, lush vegetation and clear sea. The island has beaches for every taste, both with pure white sand and black volcanic. The main tourist destination is proud Funchal, whose main attractions are gardens, restaurants, a market and a cathedral (16th century).
Madeira gastronomic
As on any other island, Madeira's main dish is fish, with swordfish, blue marlin, tuna and wahoo being popular. One of the most common side dishes for fish are fried bananas. Also, restaurants often serve beef marinated in red wine. Undoubtedly, the presence of different types of fruits and vegetables will please.
Madeira winemaking
Madeira has long been famous for its traditional wines. The island's winemaking process is unique as it involves heating and special oxidation of the wine. This technology is also used to produce wines in the Crimea and California, giving them the name Madeira, despite the fact that such a name can be given to wines produced exclusively on the island. In addition to fine wines, Madeira is famous for its brewing, liquor and brandy production.
How to get there
The international airport is located 16 kilometers from the administrative center of the island. Previously, it was possible to reach the island by ferry from the port of Portimão, but due to the high cost of tickets and unpopularity, the ferry service was closed.
The situation in the real estate market
In recent years, the situation on the real estate market in all regions of Portugal has been quite unstable. Over the past year, prices have increased by an average of 1.81%, but in the city of Funchal they have decreased by 3%. The average cost of a square meter in the capital is €1270, the average cost in the island is €1182. The most expensive housing starts from €1816 and the cheapest one starts from €944.
Madeira Island is a world-famous resort with a developed infrastructure, so the purchase of real estate here is a profitable investment decision. It also has a low crime rate and an affordable standard of living. Moreover, the purchase of real estate implies the right to obtain a multi-visa or residence permit (5 years). Many experts say that Madeira, like its wines, only gets better with age.
Certainly Madeira nightlife must have entertainment for the young and young at heart. One of the oldest and most popular nightclubs in Funchal AT ESPAS. Known for It's a young crowd of fun and all night parties, Vespas is now divided into two parts, offering music for both the young and the not-so-young! Things here don't get flexed til at least 1am and the party lasts til 8am when the sun comes out! The hotel is located in the dock area, Vespas old warehouse converted into amazing
Another popular club Copacabana. Found in a casino, gives one a chance to first go and try your luck on the slots before making your way down to the fun and festivities. Lots of Latino music and Brazilian sounds! Nice cool club!
Element Cafe theater is a must in another Funchal nightclub scene. It is an open space with a very beautiful decoration. During the day this is a very popular cafe. On weekend evenings this place clerverly turns into a chic nightclub where all the yuppies go to show off their latest fashion.
If you're into Latin rhythms, then a great place to go is Gloria Latina. You can dance or sit comfortably on one of the two terraces while listening to music. They also have a resident band that plays during the weekend. This place is very popular with tourists as its really like a bar and club.
Other popular clubs in Funchal are: Marginal, Jam, Cameleon, Farol, Formular 1, CCC, Qashbah and O Mexicano.
|
On the geographical map of the world, Madeira is named not only for the islands in the Atlantic Ocean, but also for the largest right tributary of the Amazon. The Madeira archipelago (port., timber) is an autonomous region of Portugal, located almost 1000 km from the European continent, 550 km from the Canary Islands. There are two inhabited islands in the archipelago - Madeira and Porto Santo. After the Second World War, the population was forced to immigrate in search of work, but in the last decade, new jobs have been created in the archipelago and population growth has been observed. The population of Madeira increased from 270,000 in 1970 to 350,000 in 2010. |
Madeira was known to the Phoenicians, ancient Greeks and Romans, but the official discoverer was the Portuguese navigator João Zarco, whose monument was erected in the capital of the archipelago. On the way to Guinea, during a storm, his ship washed up on one of the islands of the uninhabited archipelago, which was called Porto Santo (Holy Port). A year later, he returned with an expedition organized by Henry the Navigator discovered the largest island of the archipelago - Madeira, where fresh water was in abundance.
The history of Madeira is connected with the stay of Christopher Columbus here. For the first time, the future great navigator visited Madeira to buy a batch of sugar for a Genoese merchant. Later, he returned to the archipelago and settled on the island of Porto Santo, or as it was also called the "Golden Island" with the best in the archipelago sandy beach. Here he married a local girl who bore him a son, Diego. Perhaps in Madeira, Columbus had a dream to see what was in the west, where the sun set below the ocean horizon. After the death of his wife, Columbus went to Lisbon with a project to explore the western sea route to India. At present, the house of Christopher Columbus has been restored on the island of Porto Santo; there is a museum of the great navigator here.
The great geographical discoveries were largely carried out by conquistadors armed with a sword and a cross. And there was a time when Madeira occupied an exceptionally important place in the church hierarchy of the Catholic Vatican. In the 16th century, the residence of the archbishop was founded in the capital of Madeira - Funchal, to whom parishes in the New World, Africa and India - Angra, Sao Tome (Brazil), Cape Verdi (Cape Verde Islands, Africa), Goa (India) were subordinate. And today, Catholicism plays an exceptional role in the life of the islanders, and the church has a great influence on the local government. The main territorial community in Madeira are Catholic parishes. For example, the capital of the archipelago is divided into ten parishes, including the Immaculate Heart of the Virgin Mary and simply the Virgin Mary. I tried to clarify the accuracy of the translation, since the Virgin Mary of the Immaculate Conception is known, but it turned out that the local church, perhaps doubting such an interpretation, prefers the Virgin with the Immaculate Heart. The Virgin Mary is also the patroness of the Canary Islands. By the way, the Virgin Mary is exceptionally popular in the Mediterranean. For example, she is the patroness of Spanish Catalonia.
The first Portuguese colonists began to develop Madeira - they burned forests for fields and buildings, laid levadas - channels for draining fresh water from mountain sources. Levadas have become one of the main attractions of Madeira. A system of irrigation canals was created over several centuries to bring water from the highlands to the arid southern coast of the island.
In 1456, the Portuguese brought sugar cane from Sicily, and later slaves to grow it. Sugar production has become an important branch of the local economy. The sugar boom ended when cheaper sugar from Brazil appeared on the European market. As a result, the local economy declined, Madeira was partially depopulated, and in 1566 was attacked by pirates who killed several hundred locals. From 1580 to 1640 the archipelago came under the rule of Spain, which granted Madeira privileges in trade with the New World. Winemaking is developing.
The archipelago was located on the sea routes from Europe to Latin America and Africa, and the capital of Madeira - Funchal became a place of trade for European merchants. The world trade in local wine (Madeira) was dominated by British merchants. Among the major importers of Madeira were Russia and later Germany.
The British, on their way to overseas colonies, stopped for acclimatization in Madeira, and the island gained fame as a climatological resort. Since the 19th century, Madeira, along with the French Riviera, has become a fashionable European resort with exceptionally favorable temperature conditions (from plus 16°C to 25°C). Madeira was visited by the Austrian Empress Elisabeth (Sissi), the English Queen Adelaide, the Portuguese monarchs. The exiled last emperor of Austria-Hungary Karl Habsburg settled here (buried in the local resort of Monti).
The famous Russian painter Karl Bryullov chose Madeira for rest and treatment, stayed here for several months in 1849/50. and painted "Landscape on the island of Madeira", "Walk" and other watercolors. On the island, he met other eminent Russian vacationers. Madeira was visited on the frigate "Pallada" by the writer Goncharov, who left beautiful sketches of the local landscape and became a fan of Madeira.
In the early 50s, Sir Winston Churchill was vacationing in Madeira, local landscapes inspired him to several watercolors. A photograph of the great English Prime Minister with an unchanged cigar can be seen in the town of Camar de Labos in the restaurant that bears his name.
***
Early in the morning, the outlines of the earth appear on the horizon, which, when approaching Madeira ocean liner are filled with life.
Blissful islands of the European Union and NATO
Landscapes of life. Madeira
"Geopolitics of the Superpowers"
“There were vineyards along the slope of the mountain, because of the greenery of which villas peeped out. On half a mountain, on a ledge, a church is visible, dominating the gardens and the city. The city of Funchal ... Is it really a city: these whitening houses below at the very sole, on the shore, like crumbs of sugar or plaster that has fallen off from somewhere? The closer we got to the shore, the warmer it got. You feel someone's close hot breath on your face.
This is how the classic of Russian literature I.A. described the island of Madeira. Goncharov in his book "Pallada Frigate".
Madeira is a large Portuguese island in the Atlantic Ocean. It is located 1200 km from Lisbon and 500 km from Africa. Madeira is called the island of eternal spring due to the fact that many plants bloom here at any time of the year.
From Lisbon to Funchal (the capital of Madeira) can be reached by plane. Regular flights on this route are operated by the Portuguese airline TAP.
Transport
From the airport to the center of Funchal can be reached by bus for 5 euros or by taxi for 30.
City buses are the cheapest mode of transport in Madeira, costing about 3 euros to travel around the city. It will be cheaper if you take a monthly pass. A taxi ride around the city costs an average of about 10 euros. You can rent a car directly at the airport or at the hotel for 27 euros per day. Plus gasoline - about 1.90 euros per liter.
It is worth considering that riding on the island has its own specifics. There are very steep ascents and descents, many narrow streets and long tunnels. It will be very difficult for an inexperienced driver or cyclist here.
Climate
The climate of Madeira is subtropical. Sunny and hot summer lasts from May to October. In October, it starts to rain, it gets cooler, and frequent storms in the ocean do not allow swimming. But even during this period there are warm and sunny days when you can go sunbathing on the beach. In addition, the island has a wide variety of microclimates: in autumn, when in one part of Madeira the sky is overcast and drizzling, it can be sunny and hot on the opposite coast.
Nature
Madeira can be called an ecologically clean island. It is far from the mainland, and there are no industrial enterprises here. Laurel relic forests of Madeira (Laurisilva) are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A huge number of unique species of animals and plants live here. Dolphins, killer whales, sperm whales, fur seals and other animals can be observed in coastal waters.
neighboring islands
In the neighborhood of Madeira, there is a small inhabited island of Porto Santo and two uninhabited ones - Desertas and Selvangens. All of these are part of the same archipelago. Porto Santo is famous for its nine kilometers of beach. Between the islands of Madeira and Porto Santo, the Lobo Marinho ferry runs daily. Tickets can always be bought at the port before departure.
Housing
Many Portuguese leave to work in richer countries, and prefer to rent out their houses, so it is relatively easy to rent an inexpensive private house, apartment or room for a long time in Madeira. As a rule, the farther from the city, the cheaper. You can search for accommodation, for example, using thematic groups on social networks or on the airbnb website. Accommodation can be quite cheap (from 250 euros per month) if you conclude a lease agreement with the property owner for a period of 6 months. Another inexpensive accommodation option is Phil's Haven hostel.
Food
Madeira has low food prices. Especially on fruits, vegetables, seafood and wine. Fresh goods are brought to Funchal's main market, Lavradores, every Friday, so it's best to go there on that day of the week. Here you need to be able to bargain, as sellers often try to capitalize on the inexperience of tourists. Next to the market is the shopping center "Dolce Vita", where you can also buy groceries at a bargain price. It has a fast food cafe where you can get a full meal for 5 euros.
Portuguese-made products are generally natural and of high quality. The local cuisine consists mainly of seafood, meat and vegetables. Many cozy cafes and restaurants are located in the center of Funchal. Here you should try the traditional dishes of Madeira: espetada and espada. At least once you need to go to a local fish restaurant. For example, in Lareira Portuguesa.
In addition, in Madeira, next to a private house, there is usually a small garden plot where you can grow vegetables, fruits and herbs on your own. This can significantly reduce food costs. Locals grow potatoes, zucchini, passion fruit, mangoes, and bananas in their gardens.
Wine
The variety of Portuguese wines that you can taste in Madeira is amazing. The price for a bottle starts from 2 euros. The famous Madeira fortified wine is produced here.
“The guides suddenly stopped at some house, shouted something, and they brought us mugs of three wines. They serve me too - how not to try: after all, this is Madeira, also straight from the source!” (I.A. Goncharov "Frigate" Pallada ").
Madeira can be purchased at almost any outlet, but it is most pleasant to buy it at the local wine museum, which is located in the center of Funchal. This is a very "atmospheric" place. Here, the wine is stored in giant wooden barrels, and visitors are given the opportunity to taste the drink before buying. The price and taste qualities depend primarily on the exposure, which is indicated on the bottle label.
In Madeira, you can try Portuguese green (young) wine. It contains less alcohol than white or red. Here it is often drunk during dinner. It is also worth trying the local zhijinha - a Portuguese cherry tincture.
Sugar cane is also grown on the island and rum is made from it, which, in turn, is used to make ponchi. Poncha is the most popular local alcoholic drink. It is a mixture of rum, cane molasses and orange juice. All establishments in Madeira strive to acquire a reputation for making the best poncho. A glass of this drink usually costs about 3 euros.
The ratio of rum and juice in the drink may vary. Sometimes passionfruit, mango or kiwi juice is used instead of orange. A good and inexpensive place where you can try this drink, sitting on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, is a cafe " Barreirinha". When ordering an alcoholic drink in any establishment, they always bring a light snack (most often - peanuts or olives).
People
The Portuguese are very cheerful and friendly people. They treat foreigners well. Tourists are their main source of income. Most Portuguese speak English very well, thanks in large part to the fact that local television broadcasts foreign films in their original language with subtitles.
In addition to the Portuguese, downshifters from different countries EU. Especially from Germany and Scandinavia. Russian-speaking emigrants also live here, mainly from Moldova and Ukraine. You can contact them and find a guide before arriving on the island. For example, using groups on social networks dedicated to Madeira. Here you can find a lot of useful information, including those related to finding accommodation on the island, music festivals, exhibitions and other events.
Volunteering
Madeira is the right place for volunteers who are willing to work a few hours a day in exchange for accommodation and food. Phil's Haven Hostel also provides occasional volunteer opportunities. Information about this can be found in the Russian-language
Since childhood, the word Madeira evoked something fabulous, warm, winey and foreign-inaccessible to me. Since I won’t be able to visit it in real life in the near future (maybe someone else?), I decided to take a preparatory virtual tour. Who cares - come with me, make a company!
Clickable
A tropical archipelago with a subtropical climate and stunning landscape, Madeira is rightly called the "Floating Garden" or the "Pearl of the Atlantic". It is located in the North Atlantic Ocean, about 560 miles (900 kilometers) from mainland Portugal and 370 miles (600 kilometers) from the Moroccan coast; European outpost in the Atlantic Ocean. Part of the archipelago are the inhabited islands of Madeira and Porto Santo, as well as small groups of uninhabited islands, Desertas and Selvagens. Madeira Island is the largest of all islands.
Madeira presents a variety of rare charms, along with luxurious clear blue skies and seas, its magnificent valleys and mountains, where the flora is distinguished by its abundance and diversity. The island is famous for its Madeira Wine, hand embroidery, "Bolo de mel" honey cake, exotic flowers, tropical fruits, amazing scenery and its spectacular fireworks New Year, which got into the Guinness Book as the largest salute in the world. Add to all this a healing climate - and it will immediately become clear why the "Paradise Island" has become a desired vacation spot for the entire Eastern Hemisphere.
Clickable
The Portuguese Captain Joao Gonçalves Zarco and Tristao Vaz Teixeira discovered the island of Porto Santo in 1418. The following year, while settling in Porto Santo, they noticed a large dark cloud on the southwestern horizon; they went there by boat and found that it was a beautiful island, which was called Madeira - the Island of the Forests.
In the 19th century, aristocratic Europe rested only in two beach resorts known at that time: on the Cote d'Azur and in Portuguese Madeira. Moreover, if the French high society preferred their Riviera, then the English aristocracy adored Madeira.
The powerful influence of English culture and the famous mentality was most clearly manifested in the 21st century. Modern Madeira resembles a blessed oasis in the desert of general restlessness, often called dynamism.
On this island, life still flows very measuredly, respectably and comfortably. From the first steps you want to get a golf club.
Clickable 1920 px
, to whom on the wallpaper ...
Neither the vagaries of the weather, nor fashion trends, nor even fire have power over Madeira! In 1420, having moored to the local rocks, the Portuguese navigator João Gonçalves Zarco was delighted with the abundance of lush vegetation.
The island was called "Madeira" - "forest", "wooded". But, having made an attempt to get through the lush thickets, the discoverers failed and in retaliation set fire to the paradise island.
The fire engulfed Madeira for more than seven years, destroying the entire island to the last bush. And suddenly, having changed his mind about returning to Portugal, Zarka returned to the ruined land, deciding to settle here. And this time forever. Since then, the island of Madeira has retained the status of "autonomy" and its own governor.
Clickable
Ashes, preserved after the fire, with a unique interaction with the volcanic rocks of the soil, turned out to be an extremely favorable condition for restoring the former splendor of the island.
The scorched areas were gradually planted with all sorts of plants and crops, even the most exotic, brought or ordered from the most unexpected corners of the planet.
And to everyone's surprise, everything worked out! And Madeira gradually turned into a real botanical garden "under the open sky". The special pride of the modern island is the flowers, all year round pleasing the eye with a riot of colors and incredible shapes and sizes. Kala and bougainvillea, hydrangeas and magnolias, azaleas and strelitzia - what is not here!
Clickable
But most of all in Madeira orchids. They grow here literally on every windowsill (like our geranium). These lovers of low temperatures in the cities bloom in winter, and in the mountains - in summer. But what a low temperature! The average annual air temperature in Madeira is + 28C, sea water- about 22-24C.
There are absolutely no predators, no poisonous snakes, or even banal mosquitoes on the island. The scariest animal in the picturesque forests of Madeira is the hare. Therefore, birds of prey are groomed and cherished here (you understand: give free rein to the hares - they will clear the island of vegetation better than the first governor). Therefore, fans of hunting can be sure that they are provided with fresh hare for dinner.
The peaks of famous and fantastic mountains are sometimes shrouded in mist, as if they have their own micro-climate; it is hard to believe that they are only a few miles from the warm sunny coast. There are so many attractions in Madeira, so why not let the driver drive and take a pleasant taxi tour of the most interesting and picturesque places on the island.
With so many new and exciting things to offer, it's no wonder that Madeira is such a magnet for discerning travelers who are looking for something more than the bustling Middle-earth tours offered by most travel agencies.
Clickable
The coast and the interior of the island offer a diversity of landscape that is rarely found anywhere else in such a comparatively small area. Volcanic in nature, with marvelous sheer cliffs, blue oceans and skies, verdant mountains and the most amazing flora, Madeira is truly one of a kind. Sheltered from the prevailing offshore winds, the popular south coast is the calmest of all, while the rugged north coast is a vibrant spectacle of blues, greens and whites, and tireless waters outline every rock, cove or ledge.
Three endemic bird species live in Madeira: the Madeira typhoon, the Madeira pigeon and the Madeira kinglet.
The island is also very important for the breeding of other seabirds, including the Madeiran storm petrel and the Atlantic storm petrel.
Macaronesia is a place of important natural diversity. The forests in the archipelago are very similar to the forests of the Tertiary period that covered southern Europe and northern Africa millions of years ago.
The vast biodiversity of Madeira is phytogeographically linked to the Mediterranean, Africa, America and Australia. Interest in plant geography has grown in recent times due to the discovery of new species of epiphytes with very different development.
Madeira has many endemic species, mostly invertebrates, including the extremely rare Madeiran Cabbage, but also some vertebrates, such as some of the bird lizards mentioned above. The largest tarantula in Europe lives in the deserts of the Desertas Islands and reaches the size of a human hand. More than 250 species of land mollusks (snails and slugs) live on the same islands, some with very unusual shell patterns and colors. Most of them are endemic and endangered (such as the snail Amphorella iridescens).
Pliny mentions the Purple Isles, whose location corresponds to the Fortunate Isles, or the Canaries, which may refer to the islands of Madeira. Plutarch, speaking of the general Quintus Sertorius, reports that after his return to Cadiz, “he met a sailor recently arrived from the Atlantic islands, two in number, separated only by a small strait, at a distance of 10,000 furlongs from the coast of Africa. They are called the Islands of the Blessed. The estimated distance to Africa (2,000 km/1,250 miles) and the proximity of the two islands allow this reference to be compared with Madeira and Porto Santo.
There is a romantic legend about two lovers Robert Mashim and Anne d'Arfet during the reign of Edward III, who, fleeing England for France in 1346, were blown off course by a violent storm. Their ship crashed off the coast of an island, possibly Madeira; later, the name of the young man was used in the name of the place Machico, in memory of the lovers. According to a 1351 portolan, presented in Florence, Italy, Madeira was discovered long before the Portuguese ships reached it. It is certain that Madeira was discovered before the founding of the Portuguese settlement, as it has been on maps since 1339.
Clickable 1800 px
With a relaxed atmosphere and sophisticated lifestyle, Madeira's cosmopolitan capital, Funchal, is virtually crime-free.
Funchal was declared a city on August 21, 1508, the largest city on the island, and now it is the main center of trade. It is located on the south coast of Madeira and is one of the most popular ports of call in the Atlantic Ocean. Funchal has a rich historical heritage; bustling and colorful city with stunning mountain views and an abundance of sights and entertainment. An excellent starting point for exploring the city is the bustling and vibrant Mercado dos Lavradores Market, where you can buy various varieties of exotic flowers and local artisans, tropical fruits, vegetables and fresh fish.
Then visit some of our great museums, monuments, art galleries and gardens. Se Cathedral, a landmark in the center of the old city, was built between 1485 and 1514; it is one of the few surviving buildings of the Portuguese architectural style from the time of King Manuel the Fortunate. Walk along the seaside promenade to the port of Funchal, enjoy the magnificent coastal views with a cup of "chinez", a traditional coffee in one of the cafes near the harbour. A longer walk along the breakwater will reward you with an amazing view of Funchal's "amphitheater" with stunning mountain scenery.
Madeira Island is popular both among extreme sportsmen and among ordinary residents of large cities who dream of moments of silence, peace and a breath of fresh air. But Madeira is able to turn even the most notorious lazy person burdened with chronic fatigue syndrome into a fidget.
No other resort in the world will offer you such a wide range of exotic entertainment created by nature itself.
For example, on the island you can swim with dolphins or watch whales that are busy mating. In addition, Madeira is famous for its fabulously beautiful rocky reefs, rare black coral colonies, underwater grottoes and caves.
Fishing enthusiasts will also find a huge field for activity here - just giant specimens of tuna are found here.
If you don't like to catch - then look. The reserve on the southern coast of the island of Madeira is famous for the fact that it is here that giant stingrays are found in record numbers - manta rays - giant fish, similar to fantastic birds, can develop a speed that allows them to jump out of the water to a height of one and a half (!) Meters.
Honestly, Madeira is worth coming at least for this. Although no, not only.
An unforgettable experience will also be an excursion to the picturesque lakes formed in numerous craters of extinct volcanoes. This fantastic beauty cannot be described in words, you need to see it, or even better, swim in one of the lakes or explore the underground caves.
Clickable
The only thing that may be lacking in Madeira is the gently sloping sandy shores. The local beaches are quite specific - small in area, rocky and leaving immediately to a decent depth.
Therefore, most of the hotels here are equipped with special stairs to enter the ocean or long piers. However, if it's stormy, it's still uncomfortable.
But it's time to enjoy the exclusive: one of the "delicious" highlights of the local holiday - natural lava baths. Deep black pools are surrounded by stalagmites that look like sand castles - only granite. The water that comes here during high tides heats up to almost + 30C during the day, and is replaced by fresh water in the morning.
Among other things, Madeira is idolized by climbers and climbers. And for those who are not fans of extreme sports, we recommend a tireless hike ... above the clouds. From Aireiro Peak to Ruivo Peak it is only a few hours' walk, and the clouds will hover at your feet.
The Botanical Garden is one of the most famous sights of Madeira, spread out on a mountainside over an area of 8 hectares. Symbol of MadeiraThe garden dates back to 1881, when the Reids family built a house and began to create a garden on their land. Today, the Botanical Gardens of Madeira belong to the state and are open to visitors. Amazing collections of plants and exotic flowers are collected here, tropical birds live in them, and there is a museum of the history of nature. The gardens offer beautiful views of Funchal; on cable car you can get to Monte.
Dragon Tree Park
This is one of the most famous sights of Madeira, spread out on a mountainside in an area of 8 hectares. Symbol of MadeiraThe garden dates back to 1881, when the Reids family built a house and began to create a garden on their land. Today, the Botanical Gardens of Madeira belong to the state and are open to visitors. Amazing collections of plants and exotic flowers are collected here, tropical birds live in them, and there is a museum of the history of nature. The gardens offer beautiful views of Funchal; by cable car you can reach Monte.
Clickable
Dragon Tree Park
This is an amazing park that is home to critically endangered Macronesian dragon trees. Dragon trees grow very slowly, many of them several hundred years old. The park is located in Sao Gonzalo, east of Funchal and is a must visit.
Orchid Gardens Quinta da Boa Vista
This is a private garden famous for its collection of orchids. Visitors can enjoy beautiful flowers and rare, exotic plants from around the world, some of which are on the verge of extinction. orchid season and best time to visit the gardens of Quinta da Boa Vista - from May to December.
In February 2010, heavy rains and strong gale-force winds (sometimes up to 100 km/h) caused severe flooding and landslides.
They also say that such a phenomenon often occurs in the vicinity of the island! cheat?
Sky window! Someone is watching us...
Madeira International Airport, also known as Funchal Airport and Santa Catarina Airport. It operates national and international air services on the island of Madeira. Madeira Airport is considered one of the most dangerous due to the short runway surrounded high mountains and the ocean. This arrangement and the length of the runway makes landing very difficult for even the most experienced pilots.
Madeira International Airport was until 2000 a completely ordinary airport, until the authorities decided
to spend 530 million euros on the construction of a new runway number 23, located on 180 columns, 120 meters high (half their length below sea level) and 3 meters in diameter each.
Previously, the runway was only 1,400 m long, but after a plane crash in 1977, it was decided to increase the length of the runway by 400 m. reinforced concrete pillars about 70m high
The length of the strip is 2781 meters and it is able to withstand the weight of the Boeing-747-400 ...
But look, there is a parking lot under the strip :-)
And of course, the symbol of Madeira is wine.
Madeira is a strong wine originally made on the wooded island of Madeira. Madera differs in that it successfully combines a fairly high alcohol content (about
19-20% vol.) and a low concentration of sugar (only 3-7%). The history of the emergence of Madeira is as follows: in the holds of a Portuguese ship bound for India, there were barrels of wine that experienced both the pitching and the heat of the tropics.
At the end of the journey, a sharp unpleasant smell began to emanate from this wine, and it was left in the cellars. After some time, the drink was accidentally tasted and noticed that its aroma had changed, and it began to taste like a roasted nut. Three years after this discovery, in 1421, a vine was planted for the first time on Maidera Island.
Soon, at the direction of Prince Henry the Navigator, the Malvasia vine was brought from Crete for wine production, and the city of Funchal became the center of winemaking and viticulture. Portuguese wine was obtained as follows: the grapes were placed in wooden barrels, crushed with their feet and the resulting pulp was fermented, after which the wine was separated from the pomace and poured into barrels.
As a result of heating, Madera was obtained, and subsequently the heat treatment technology was called maderaization. The exposure of Portuguese wine lasted up to 5-6 years, then it was poured into bottles, in which it was up to 25 years. Russia was engaged in the production of Madeira by the end of the 19th century, however, the experiments were not crowned with success. One of the first winemakers in Russia to make Madeira was A.P. Serbulenko, and his wine was called “Strong from Madeira vines”, however, no details about this wine have been preserved in historical sources.
Maider grows several varieties of white and red grapes, and, accordingly, several varieties of wines are obtained from them, among which the most popular are Malvasia (Malvoisie, Malmsey), Verdelho (Verdelho), Boal (Bagoual, Bual) and Sercial (Sercial). Malvasia, or sweet Madeira, is made from selected berries - this is a liqueur wine that has a very sweet taste and a wonderful bouquet. The highest grade of Malvasia is called "pigno", and it is obtained by lightly pressing the grapes. Sweet Madeira acquires its valuable qualities after 5-6 years of aging, and after storage for 30-40 years, Madeira acquires a delicate, delicate and pleasantly intoxicating taste. The wine obtained from Sercial and Vidon grapes has an amber color and is called "dry Madeira".