In this category we will show all of our blog posts having specific landmarks as the objective. These landmark all have a specific location. We’ll do our best to give you a link to a google map also. A landmark could be a monument, a historic building, or a natural landmark. For example one of the picos of Madeira, or the lavapools of Porto Moniz. You can just pick one of these and drive or walk there. If the landmark is a museum or a cultural heritage site, we’ll tell you what it costs and when are the opening hours. You’ll find a lot of landmarks along the North Coast. That’s because…well…we have a preference.
What is the Principality of Pontinha? The Principality of Pontinha is a self-proclaimed micronation off Funchal, Madeira.It occupies a tiny rocky islet known as Ilhéu da Pontinha. A small fortress, Forte de São José, crowns the rock. You can listen to the Principality’s National Anthem here below: A short history Local art teacher Renato (Dom …
The Forgotten Monte Railway of Madeira: Funchal to Monte A Historic Journey That No Longer Exists The Monte Railway, officially known as Caminho de Ferro do Monte, linked Funchal’s Pombal district to Terreiro da Luta in Monte. This rack railway ran 3.9 km uphill and was built in stages between 1893 and 1912. It reached Terreiro …
What is Cabo Girao? Cabo Girao Viewpoint is impressive. It is located about 2 km west of Camara de Lobos. Cabo Giroa Viewpoint sits on the highest sea cliff (580m) in Europe (second highest in the world). Since its renovation in 2012, a suspended glass platform, or skywalk, adds to the thrill. The platform is …
Who should see this? The flora lovers won’t be disappointed when visiting Madeira island. You’ll have plenty to do with no less than 37 gardens and parks to explore and wander through. One of them, the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, displays a rich and outstanding collection of plants from all over the world. Interestingly, it …
Ponta de São Lourenço is the easternmost point of Madeira island. It is located in Caniçal, in the municipality of Machico. Visiting Ponta de São Lourenço is an absolute must for all tourists coming to the island. Indeed, Ponta de São Lourenço is truly considered to be one of Mother Nature’s gem. The breathtaking landscape …
Guindaste Viewpoint The Guindaste Viewpoint offers a wonderful view of the Atlantic outlining the northern eastern coast of the island, extending from Faial to Ponta de São Lourenço. It lays in the Ribeira do Faial delta in Faial which belongs to the municipality of Santana. This miradouro is sometimes called Crane Viewpoint. On days with …
Fábrica Santo António in Funchal, Madeira Fábrica Santo António is the oldest confectionery factory in Madeira, dating back to 1893. Here you’ll find a variety of traditional treats. Take a peek inside, and maybe buy a packet or two of Madeiran biscuits or sweets. Enjoy them while you discover Funchal or take them home as …
What are the grottos? The Grutas de São Vicente are caves of vulcanic origin, located in the parish of São Vicente, Madeira. The grottos formed 890 thousand years ago from a volcanic eruption that occurred in Paul da Serra. Lava streams then descended to the sea. First, the outer part, exposed to …
What is the Pico Ruivo? Pico Ruivo is the highest peak on Madeira. Pico Ruivo is 1,861 metres (6,106 ft) high and provides some of the most incredible views of the island from coast to coast, but unpredictable weather conditions can make it quite dangerous. It can be reached only by foot, usually either from Pico …
Village of Ponta Delgada Ponta Delgada belongs to the municipality of São Vicente. It’s location is about right in the middle of the north coast, 2 km west of Boa Ventura and 6 km east of São Vicente. History of the village The founder of the village, Manoel Afonso Sanha, died on April 1, 1507, …
The Pico de Ariero With its altitude of 1818 meters the Pico de Arieiro is the third highest peak on the island. But fortunately this one can be reached by car. There are no lush forests here, just a tall mountain towering the clouds, which are playing catch and seek with the mountain peaks. …
