Explore Portugal through the eyes of our team member Faz.
Madeira, the Pearl of the Atlantic or the island of flowers, has long captured the heart of the travellers around the world with its outstanding natural landscape and unique charm.
This volcanic island in the Atlantic Ocean enjoys a subtropical climate, with a diverse landscape, abundance of flowers, lush vegetation and unimaginable hiking trails.
As I sit here to write of a long desire of experiencing the wonders of Madeira and yearn to immerse in the beauty of its peaks and valleys, my mind becomes filled with dreams of distant adventures.
I remember stumbling across a video of Madeira a few years ago, prompting my curiosity to research aspects of the destination extensively with the hope in my heart that my path will take me there one day.
As I come to realise that the allure of this destination lies not only in its lush greenery and dramatic cliffs, as I expected initially, but also in its unique history and vibrant culture.
From the rugged mountains that offer breathtaking views to the vibrant markets brimming with local delights, there is so much to explore and discover in this picturesque land.
The capital city of the island, Funchal, promises a unique experience for its visitors all year round.
With its amphitheatre layout around the bay and well-preserved Portuguese colonial architecture, the city displays unmatched characteristics, such as narrow cobbled streets, little squares with traditional restaurants, communal parks, and gardens.
The top of the city is reachable by cable car, implying that returning to the bottom involves an arduous trip on foot or an adventure in a wicker basket.
The souls seeking adventure would not miss on the opportunity to experience this traditional means of transport, popular amongst the local inhabitants to help navigate through the steepness of the hills.
Though my love for Madeira has not yet materialised, I dream of the ability to hike on its best trails, on the ridges and summits of Pico Ariero and Pico Ruivo, the highest of the region.
The though of hiking from east to west, between the summit of Pico Ruivo to Encumeada, renowned for its panoramic views of the island and the ocean and gazing out at the endless expanse of the water fills me with a sense of wanderlust unlike any other.
The waters surrounding this imposing island are teeming with marine life, whilst the sheer variety of species that can be spotted here makes Madeira a prime whale watching spot for enthusiasts from around the world.
The destination offers accessible tours led by knowledgeable guides who are passionate about marine biology and the conservation of this habitat.
During such tour, one can encounter amongst the expected: bottlenose dolphins, humpback whales and orcas. Equally mesmerising is the Lawisilva forest, a truly natural wonder and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stands as a testament to the island’s unique and diverse ecosystem.
This ancient laurel forest is the largest surviving primary laurel forest in the world and is home to a remarkable array of flora and fauna, including species of endemic plants found nowhere else on Earth.
The forest displays a captivating abundance of waterfalls that cascade through the landscape, adding to its mystical allure.
As my heart yearns for the beauty of the sight and sound of the water crashing amidst the lush greenery tugging at my soul, I hope to set foot in this enchanting forest, to breath in the fresh, earthy sent of its trees, connect to the nature and profoundly appreciate the biodiversity that thrives within its ancient borders.
Lastly, experiencing the island entails encounters with the exceptionally welcoming locals, very enthusiastic in offering their well curated accommodations, culinary delights and tour advice of their charming island. Savouring the gastronomy aspects of Madeira, from fresh seafood to delectable pastries, is another adventure for my taste buds that l eagerly anticipate.
