Funchal is the capital of Madeira and lies at the South coast of the island. The port stretches from a relatively flat area of the coast to high up in the adjacent mountain chain. Funchal is perfect not only for relaxing in one of the floating cafés by the harbour, but also for shopping for delicacies in the market hall, which has a huge assortment of fish, flowers and vegetables. The city centre is also worth seeing: in the old town area is the famous fort. The upper town is dominated by the "Castelo de São de Pico", also known as "Pico Fort". At the foot of the fort lies the English cemetery. Further attractions: the cathedral, the old customs house, the fort "São Tiago", the city park, "Quinta das Cruzes" gardens with an archaeological park.

Tips for excursions

Cabo Girao and Camera de Lobos

The excursion begins with a visit to Cabo Girao, located on a high plateau. A break for photos at Camera de Lobos with panoramic views of the terraced vineyards. The trip continues to Pico dos Barcelos, a lookout point on the southern coast of Madeira with a view of the town of Funchal.

Faial

A trip from Funchal through picturesque villages and vineyards to the small town of Faial. Lunch in a restaurant. The trip continues to the lookout point Terreiro da Luta with sweeping views over Funchal. Return trip in the traditional basket sleigh "Cestinho".

Sào Vicente

Round trip of the island. From the second largest town in Madeira - Câmara de Lobos - to Porta do Sol and Ribeira Brava, a small fishing port. Tour of the town. The spit of land known as Encumada de Sào Vicente offers views of two oceans and volcanoes. Return trip in the "Cestinho", one of the island's typical basket sleighs.

Pico dos Barcelos, Eira do Serrado and Monte

Mountain tour by coach, with a further walk up to the 1060 m high mountain Eira do Serrad. Break for photographs. The trip continues to Monte, a little town situated above Funchal. Visit to a church and tropical gardens. Return trip by basket sleigh to the valley to taste the celebrated local wine of Madeira.

Monte, Pico de Areeiro and Camacha

The excursion begins with a visit to the wonderful park complex and church in the little town of Monte, before continuing to the lookout point Pico de Areeiro at an altitude of 1810 m. Subsequent trip to the parish of Camacha, famous for its wicker basket industry.

Customers port tips

e-hoi cruise fan

Cancelled due to weather. We visited la Palma instead. Did an e-bike tour there. It was okay, though the bikes could be better maintained. On broke a fork and the other had a loose steering bearing.