Madeira

Besides the main island which is the larger and more populated, the Madeira archipelago includes the island of Porto Santo in the northwest, two groups of uninhabited islets, the Desert Islands and the Savage Islands. Madeira is a subtropical volcanic paradise, with soils formed by lava and ash, completely different from the soils of the Portuguese mainland. With a nice steady temperature, the island is a real attraction throughout the year.

Nowadays the locals take advantage of all available land growing bananas, flowers and grapes, although tourism is the main activity. Hiking enthusiasts, plant fans and sun lovers choose Madeira, whereas an immense gold sanded beach with more than 7 km and mild climate, drier than in Madeira, attract tourists to Porto Santo.

The Madeira Archipelago includes the following counties: Calheta, Câmara de Lobos, Funchal, Machico, Ponta do Sol, Porto Moniz, Porto Santo, Ribeira Brava, Santa Cruz, Santana, São Vicente.

Crafts

The highlight in Madeira’s handicrafts, quite rich in its diversity, goes to the famous embroidery, some musical instruments like the “brinquinho”, baskets, straw hats or “palmitos” and typical boots. Embroidery is one of the key features of the island. Wicker items are also in high demand and have long tradition. They have multiple uses, such as the typical basket carts pulled by locals wearing straw hats.
The crafts are also reflected in “bailinho da Madeira”, a local dance, which is accompanied by “brinquinho” and the traditional costume which includes the typical boots that make the dance even more special.

To visit

Areeiro peak

Farmer’s market – Funchal

Botanical Garden – Funchal

Curral das Freiras (Nun’s Valley)

Rabaçal trails

Santana and Porto da Cruz typical houses

Porto Santo Beach