Visit madeira - The Bali of Europe
A Bali-like experience in just a few hours from any European city: The Portuguese island Madeira is a gem for both adventurous travelers as sunbathers.
Looking for the best photography spots around Madeira? Check out my top 10 locations here: Top 10 photography spots Madeira.
Madeira
Madeira is a Portuguese island located near Morocco, above the Canary Islands. Due to its location, the island has a subtropical climate and an average temperature of almost 23 degrees. Even in the winter months, the mercury rarely drops below 19 degrees, which is not a bad way to escape the winter blues!
The relatively small island has a great diversity in nature and many microclimates. A few minutes' drive can be the difference between rain and sunshine. The south is characterized by cities and beaches, the north is rougher and more often subject to rain. In the center of the island you have a range of mountains, of which Pico Ruivo is the highest point at 1,862 meters.
Madeira is known as the flower island. More than 750 flower species grow on the island, most of which bloom between March and June. Combined with tall cliffs, blue waters and volcanic areas, the island turns into a real spectacle.
Transportation
Madeira airport is an experience in itself. Half is built on land, the other half on stilts. The landing can be somewhat exciting; Pilots must follow a special course/training to be allowed to land here. Don't forget to enjoy! ;)
The best way to discover the island is by car. From the capital Funchal, every corner of the island can be reached within one hour through a network of roads, tunnels and bridges. There are many rental options at both the airport and in the capital. Some roads around the island do require advanced driving skills, so make sure you feel comfortable driving.
Activities
Hiking enthusiasts take note, this is the place to visit. Madeira has a wide range of hiking trails, the main ones of which are indicated with a “PR”, such as the famous PR1 Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo hike. Keep track of the route and progress via AllTrails on your mobile. Quick tip: start your walk around sunrise or shortly after. The well-known trails can quickly become busy and parking lots overcrowded.
My top 3 hikes:
1. PR1: Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo
The best (and toughest) hike in Madeira. Start with sunrise at the peak of Arieiro and take your time to complete the 13km hike. Both the peaks and the valleys are a feast for the eyes!
2. PR6: Levada das 25 Fontes
As the name suggests, the PR6 hike is characterized by waterfalls. During this hike you will walk past several waterfalls, including the Risco waterfall, and various levadas (irrigation canals). Take your raincoat with you, it can sometimes be wet here.
3. PR8 Ponta de São Lourenço
On the east side of the island, PR8 extends across the peninsula. The 7km long route takes you past several red-colored cliffs and blue waters. It is best to walk this route at sunrise.
More activities:
Besides hikes, the island has much more to offer. Drink a glass of wine from Madeira, sunbathe on a Saharan sandy beach, visit the remote Fajã dos Padres (with cable car), go paragliding, swim in one of the many natural pools, visit the Palheiros houses, walk through a botanical garden or go dolphin spotting . Something for everyone!
Must Visits
Which places can you not miss during your visit to Madeira? These are the must visits.
Fanal Forestry Station
Madeira has the oldest laurel forest in the world (at least 1.8 million years old). The forest is often surrounded by thick fog, creating a mystical atmosphere.
Pico Ruivo
The highest point on the island is THE place to witness the sunset. You can park your car about 2.5 km away at Parking PR1.2 Achada do Teixeira. Don't forget your headlamp for the way back.
St. George Coastal Walk
Off the beaten track and fun for photos, the coastal walk at St. George Ruins takes you to an old wooden bridge along the cliffs. Pass the warning sign and walk about 10-15 minutes to the end point. With a telephoto lens this gives a special result.
Risco Waterfall
The Risco waterfall consists of several layers and can be viewed up close from a platform. If you're lucky, the gates will be open and you can even walk behind the waterfall.
Stairway to Heaven
During the PR1 hike from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo you pass a special staircase with deep valleys on both sides. Even if you don't walk the entire route, I would recommend this location!
Natural pools
You can find several natural pools around the island. The most famous is in Porto Moniz on the west side of the island, but also very touristy. A more quiet natural pool can be found in Seixal called Poça do Mata Sete.
Miradouro da Ponta do Rosto
Near the PR8 hike is the Maradouro de Ponta do Rosto viewpoint. From this location you have a view of high red-colored cliffs that light up beautifully at sunrise.
Enjoy your stay in Madeira!
Cheers, Mike
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My name is Mike Tesselaar, in short MiTe. I’m a photographer from The Netherlands with a heart for traveling and adventuring.
I write blogs about photo- and videography, travel, freelancing and personal related stories. Hope you’ll find inspiration and feel welcome to stick around a little longer!
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What locations did I take my photos? Check it on my Google Maps; Local Guide feed!
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