August, 2022
Maravilhoso Madeira
To many people, the word “Madeira” evokes a image of sweet, rich wine, however I suspect very few people could point to this tiny speck on a map.
It is an enchanting place; an island in the Atlantic Ocean. Owned by Portugal, yet closer to Casablanca than Lisbon.
We were lucky enough to have spent 6 weeks exploring the beauty of the island in the summer of 2022.
QUICK FACTS
- first settled in 1420 in the age of discovery, by Portuguese sailors driven off course
- 32 N. -16 E., the same parallel as Bermuda
- 742 km sq. in area and just 55 km at its widest point
- a population of 210,000 with the main city of Funchal
- it’s #1 export is bananas
- it’s most famous citizen – soccer legend Cristiano Ronaldo (sharing the same birthday as the author)
- subtropical climate with an annual average temperature of 23 C. , 14 to 20 C. in the winter legend
Dramatic Geography
Rising up 6 Km from the ocean floor, your first impression of Madeira is how rugged it is. It’s a mystical landscape where thousands of ancient black ridges tumble out in every direction. The deep greens of the tropical vegetation accentuate the drama.
Lush Vegetation and Botanical Gardens
Stunning parks and gardens are abundant, where the flora is rich and colourful.
One our favourite outings was a visit to the Monte Palace Botanical Gardens. Cradled in a 70,000 sq. meter natural amphitheater, it is rated as one of the top gardens in the world. So inviting and peaceful.
Levada de Madeira
Madeira is blessed with a resource that many regions of the world are desperate for: WATER and lot’s of it!
The water originates in springs that flow out from the high peaks in the north. From there, it is delivered by gravity to the terraces in the south where the banana plants thrive.
The levadas are a very elaborate system of aqueducts that dates back to the 15th century and are very unique to Madeira. They physically tie communities together and are also a symbol of spirit and expression.
The system is a network of over 3,000 kms. of trenches and tunnels that crisscross the hillsides and tumble down into the steep ravines. The manual labour that was required is hard to comprehend.
As well as providing a life line to the residents, the levadas are a wonderful network of pathways. The gradual sloped, mostly paved sidewalks allow visitors to glimpse deep into the heart and soul of the community. They also provide some very extreme hiking for those so inclined (sic).
Getting Here
There are direct flights to Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport from Lisbon, Paris and the UK.
The island offers accommodation from the modest to the fabulous.
There are excellent restaurants featuring many local dishes. Of course this being Portugal, you will never be more than a few steps away from a cafe!
If you are looking for a one of a kind get away, we can highly recommend a stop on Madeira.
the joyful travellers
Doug and Johanne