Madeira Islands
Outdoor activities in Madeira
Hiking
You can hike through the beautiful Laurisilva forest, or climb to the top of Pico Ruivo, the highest peak in Madeira.
Levada walks
Levadas are irrigation channels built to bring water from the mountains to farms and villages. There are many Levada walks to choose from, each with its unique scenery and difficulty level.
Scuba diving
You can hike through the beautiful Laurisilva forest, or climb to the top of Pico Ruivo, the highest peak in Madeira.
Beaches
The island has several natural beaches, but the most famous one is Praia Formosa, a beautiful golden sand beach located on the island's south coast.
Rent a yacht
You can hike through the beautiful Laurisilva forest, or climb to the top of Pico Ruivo, the highest peak in Madeira.
Dolphin watching
Incredible dolphin and whale watching spots exist, with many boat tours available. You can see a variety of species, including bottlenose dolphins, spotted dolphins, and pilot whales.
Articles
Madeira's history
The history of Madeira is rich and fascinating, with influences from various cultures and civilizations.
The first known inhabitants of Madeira were the Guanche people, who arrived on the islands around 1000 AD. The Guanche people were skilled farmers and navigators who left their mark on the islands through their agricultural practices and rock carvings. However, they were eventually overrun by the Portuguese, who discovered Madeira in 1418.
The Portuguese quickly realized the potential of Madeira as a strategic location for trade and colonization. They began to settle the islands and establish sugarcane plantations, which quickly became the primary source of income for the colony. The sugarcane industry brought prosperity to the islands and attracted a diverse population of immigrants from Europe, Africa, and Asia.
In the 16th century, Madeira became a popular destination for wealthy Europeans who came to the islands to escape the harsh winters of their home countries. The mild climate and beautiful scenery made Madeira a popular destination for tourism, and it remains a popular tourist destination to this day.
Several natural disasters, including devastating wildfires and landslides, also mark Madeira's history. The most famous of these disasters was the Great Fire of Funchal, which broke out in 1803 and destroyed large parts of the city. Despite these setbacks, the people of Madeira have always been resilient and have managed to rebuild and recover.
In the 19th century, the sugarcane industry began to decline, and Madeira had to find new ways to sustain its economy. The islanders turned to other sectors, such as wine, embroidery and tourism. Madeira is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful landscapes, delicious cuisine, and unique culture. The island also continues to produce world-renowned wines and traditional crafts.
