Discover enchanting Madeira: Your unforgettable island escape

Embark on a gastronomic adventure as you savour the island's delicious cuisine. Madeira's unique blend of subtropical climate and volcanic soil offers an array of fresh, locally sourced ingredients that form the foundation of its traditional dishes. Enjoy "tuna steak with fried corn," mouthwatering "swordfish steak," and tasty "skewers" (espetada). End your feast on a sweet note with the exotic "passion fruit pudding"  - no visit is complete without indulging in the tropical fruits that can be found across the island.

But the culinary journey doesn't stop there – some world-renowned wines await your exploration. Madeira's vineyards produce wines that have earned international acclaim. Discover Sercial, Boal, Verdelho, and Malvasia grape varieties, each yielding wines of distinct sweetness levels. Visit some charming wineries and restaurants for local tastings, where you'll find yourself sipping these lovely wines alongside some delectable Madeira honey cake.

As you travel around Madeira, you’d see some incredible landscapes and find yourself immersed in a world of natural wonder. The island's gardens, lovingly cared for by both locals and visitors, stand as a testament to how beautiful nature really can be.  Its subtropical climate allows for a stunning array of flowers, plants, and trees from across the globe; strelicias, magnolias, anthuriums, and orchids all adorn the island with a pretty kaleidoscope of hues at any time of year.

Prepare to be thrilled by a unique adventure that embodies the spirit of Madeira – the wicker sledges. Crafted with care from wicker and wood, these fabulous vehicles hold the promise of an exciting escapade. Led and controlled by two expert drivers (dressed in white with jaunty straw hats), you'll be in for a ride of pure exhilaration. The drivers' skilful use of thick rubber soles on their boots as brakes adds daring to your journey as you race downhill. Pure adrenaline and pure fun!

Madeira's breathtaking landscapes become even more beautiful at the start and the end of the day.  To experience an awe-inspiring sunrise, go to the summit of Pico do Areeiro, where you'll stand amongst the clouds at 5965 feet. As dawn breaks and the sky transforms into a canvas of delicate hues, make sure to take your camera to capture this perfect moment. More of a night owl? Find your seat by the sea at Praia Formosa, Madalena do Mar, or Paul do Mar. With the gentle lull of ocean waves as your backdrop, watch as the sun sets, painting the sky with hues of gold and amber.

Discover Fajã dos Padres, a tranquil haven that embodies the essence of Madeira's uniqueness. Accessible via a cable car that descends from the mountain's peak (you can leave your hire car at the top of the slope) or by a leisurely boat journey, this secluded paradise helps you unwind as you immerse yourself in its crystal-clear waters. Take a refreshing plunge from the small pier into waters that can reach a balmy 24.5 °C during the summer months – with water that warm, you won’t ever want to get out…

Madeira beckons with its captivating landscapes, tantalizing flavours, and a warm embrace that welcomes you to its shores, so embrace the magic of Madeira, and let the beauty of this Portuguese paradise capture your heart.

Travel Department offer holidays to Madeira including return flights, the expertise of a local tour guide, accommodation, all transfers and specially selected excursions and tours. So why not discover Madeira’s captivating history and incomparable scenery? Enjoy a city tour of Funchal, experience a typical Madeiran evening of food and entertainment, plus explore the east of the island and more. There’s also plenty of free time to explore this wonderful destination at your own pace.

Travel Department is delighted to partner with Reader’s Digest and offer readers exclusive discounts across any new 2024 holidays. Click here to reveal the current money-off offers, or simply call 0203 966 0527 and mention Reader’s Digest to learn more about the savings available. 

Offers are non-transferable, subject to availability, cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer and have no cash value. All deposits are non-refundable.

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