For those who are thinking about heading to Madeira Portugal in the near future, it is a good idea to know the different ways to get there. The two most common routes are the ferries and the flights, but you can also travel via car. You should make sure to ask about the costs involved and whether you can make reservations in advance. Also, you should read up on the local laws for the region you are planning to visit. This is especially important when traveling to the islands by car, as it is possible to get into trouble if you are caught driving without a permit.
Funchal
If you are wondering how to get to Madeira from Funchal, there are several ways to get there. You can book a ticket online or go to your local travel agent to book a flight. A rental car is another option. There are several options available to rent a car in Funchal. Some of the best options include Avis, Budget, and Europcar.
You can also get to Madeira from other locations in Portugal, Spain, and other parts of the world. Most of the time, you will need to take a ferry. The cost of a crossing can vary, but if you buy tickets in advance, you can save on the price.
You can also book a private transfer. This is the best way to get from the airport to your hotel or villa. It is convenient and hassle-free.
Another good option is to use the local bus service. Buses are a cheaper way to get around the island. They take more time, but are much cheaper than hiring a taxi.
If you are in a hurry and want to avoid the crowds, you can try renting a car. There are several car hire companies at the airport. The cost is generally between 20 and 220 euros.
One of the most interesting things to do in Madeira is the story center. It is a modern museum with several exhibits relating to the history of the island. While there, you should definitely look into the various caves and lava tubes.
Another cool thing to do in Madeira is the sleigh ride. Those who are up for the challenge should definitely try this.
Pico Ruivo
Pico Ruivo is the highest peak on Madeira. It is located in the Achada do Teixeira region. It is a beautiful spot to see the sunset and sunrise.
There are many hiking routes to reach Pico Ruivo. These vary in difficulty. You can opt for a short hike or a longer one.
A popular hiking route is the one that begins at the top of Pico do Arieiro. This trail is a challenging path that has several ascents and descents. Hiking this section of the island is an adrenaline rush.
The entire route takes about 4-5 hours. The climb is mostly uphill, but there are several descents. If you are planning to do this hike, make sure you have a headlamp. Also, you will need lots of drinking water.
To get to the starting point of the trail, you can either hire a car or take a tour. Most tours will pick you up at Achada do Teixeira.
Hiking to Pico Ruivo will allow you to see the different backdrops of the island. The weather conditions are unpredictable, so it is best to go during the summer months.
Some days in Madeira can be very hot and windy. You can also experience a lot of sudden cloudy weather. Make sure you have plenty of drinking water and a light sweater to wear in these weather conditions.
In addition to hiking, you can also take a canyoning trip. Canyoning involves a series of cliffs and waterfalls. For a more extreme hiking adventure, you can also try rappelling and sliding.
Before you begin your trip, it is a good idea to consult the weather forecast. Bad weather can prevent you from reaching the summit.
Flora and fauna
The flora and fauna of Madeira is unique in its biodiversity. It is a Portuguese island in the Atlantic Ocean. Its native flora is known as Palearctic and is characterized by the fact that it has preserved vegetation similar to the Macaronesia region.
Most species of animals are endemic to the island. The most common are the petrel, FEA’s petrel, trocaz pigeon and lark.
Birds are the main attraction of the island. Some endemic species include the FEA’s petrel, the Trocaz pigeon, the Madeira firecrest and the Madeira chaffinch. Other species are known only from the Canaries and Azores.
Laurel forest is the habitat of the firecrest, which is an endemic bird to Madeira. This bird feeds on insects and likes to rest on beaches. Moreover, it has a white belly.
The forest is home to more than 500 endemic invertebrates. A large proportion of the plants in the forest are also unique to laurel forests.
Madeira’s indigenous vegetation consists of a variety of shrubs. The trees are supported by a large understorey of plants. Many of these species are brought in by the ocean and wind.
These bushes also support an endemic storksbill called Geranium maderense. In the past, terraced fields were planted to grow citrus fruits and bananas. However, overgrazing and road clearing have lowered the natural vegetation cover.
Besides the ferns and bryophytes, there are many species of flowers on the island. Many of these are cultivated for export.
Madeira’s flora and fauna are threatened by invasive species. For example, the blue gum tree has become a major problem on the south side of the island. There is a danger that the blue gum tree will pull water out of the ground. Another invasive species is the tree-climbing black rat Rattus rattus.
Wineries
When you visit Madeira Portugal, you will find that the landscape is breathtaking, with vineyards perched high above the cliff sides. Vineyards vary in size and style.
The most common types of Madeira wines are white, red, and fortified. Wines are aged in oak barrels for a minimum of three years. Some Madeira wines are aged for more than a decade.
Madeira was first discovered by Portuguese mariners in 1419. It was used as a port for ships heading to the East Indies. However, the region didn’t become a major wine region until the mid-17th century. During that time, Madeira wine producers made both fortified and still white and red wines.
Today, there are eight producers that produce Madeira. These producers purchase grapes from at least 100 growers. They age the wine in large barrels on trestles, called canteiros in Portuguese.
There are four main varieties of grapes that are grown on Madeira: Tinta Negra, Malmsey, Verdelho, and Sercial. Each has its own characteristics. For example, the Tinta Negra has a distinct texture and deep dark color. On the other hand, the Verdelho grape has a smoky, sweet flavor.
Most Madeira wines are sold at three, five, or ten years old. But the best are those that are aged for at least 20 years.
Madeira wine is expensive. This is due to its location and aging processes. A new generation of wine makers is working to maintain the long tradition of producing Madeira.
The wines are renowned for their fortification. Fortified wines were added to help the wine survive the voyage. Even a few centuries after the settlers first arrived, Madeira wines haven’t been as well-known as other popular wine regions.
Activities
The island of Madeira in Portugal has a lot to offer. There are plenty of hiking possibilities to choose from. Besides, a wide variety of marine life can be seen in the waters surrounding the island. Moreover, the region has an impressive road system.
One of the most popular activities on the island is scuba diving. This is a great way to view some of the rarest species on Earth, such as dolphins and monk seals.
Another cool thing to do on Madeira is a cable car ride. A cable car ride gives you a fast and convenient way to get around the island and its attractions. It also provides spectacular views of the ocean and traditional houses.
Another must-see attraction on the island is the Valley of the Nuns. This is the place where nuns took refuge from pirates. You can take a half-day tour from Funchal to see it. Alternatively, you can visit it on your own.
Among the things to do on Madeira, a tour of the island’s whaling museum is a must. Here you can learn about the island’s whaling history and its role in the island’s economy. Plus, there is a whole section dedicated to the preservation of cetaceans.
If you have time, you may want to visit Santana Park. It isn’t a theme park, but it’s very fun for kids. With playgrounds, a boating lake, and pretty gardens, it is a great destination.
For some of the best views of the island, head to the top of Pico do Arieiro. This is the third highest peak on the island, offering some of the most breathtaking views.