Madeira (Portugal)

"Hmm, delicious!", is the reaction of many imagining a glass of sweet wine on the mentioning of Madeira. But the island has much more to offer, however, than just the like-named wine.

"Hmm, delicious!", is the reaction of many imagining a glass of sweet wine on the mentioning of Madeira. But the island has much more to offer, however, than just the like-named wine.
Belonging to Portugal, the island lies in the Atlantic Ocean, off the Moroccan coast. Exotic plants originating from Africa, Asia and South America truly thrive in this splendid, mild subtropical climate. Everywhere visitors are able to enjoy the beguiling scents of orchids and freesia and feast their eyes on the colourful splendour of amaryllis, strelitzia and pointsettia. It would take several days to explore the countless parks and gardens that are filled with flowers, let alone the deep gorges, green mountains and the unique coastline of the volcanic island.
Situated on the south coast, Funchal is the island's capital. Around the sheltered natural harbour, holidaymakers are able to discover the old town that is at its most enchanting during the evenings. At this time the day's residual heat subsides and the streets and alleyways really come to life. The tables are carefully laid at the small restaurants and invite guests to indulge in fried mussels, espada, espetada and, of course, Madeira wine. A fado folk group provides the backdrop with their soulful singing. Loving couples sit on the quay wall listening to the muted lapping of the waves. The events of the day run through the mind: the colourful fishing boats of Caniçal on the south coast, the breathtaking view of Pico do Ariero and the spectacular journey on the steep coastal road from Porto Moniz to São Vicente, passing the raging sea off the north coast.