24 Reasons You Should Visit Madeira, Portugal In This Lifetime
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1.Going sledding on concrete is a perfectly normal mode of transportation.
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Imagine going sledding, except A) you’re on concrete, B) your appendages won't freeze, and C) two people are propelling you forward — that’s the traditional sledge toboggan that you can experience *only* in Madeira.
2.Drinks come with this kind of view.
This glass of wine was enjoyed at Quinta do Furão.
Address: Estrada da Quinta do Furão Nº6, 9230-082 Santana, Portugal
3.*This* is the constantly changing atmosphere you'll see after a levada hike to the Balcões viewpoint.
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Levada = a centuries-old aqueduct system you'll see throughout Madeira mountains.
After schlepping up a mountain, I was (mildly) disappointed to find everything was overcast — until my tour guide told me to wait a few seconds. From 9:34 a.m. to 9:35 a.m., the sky changed from a thick, murky soup to completely clear.
If you plan on booking a hike, I highly recommend going through Madeira Adventure Kingdom for friendly guides and fun facts. There are 11 tours available and you can choose one that best suits your difficulty level.
4.There are rainbows everywhere. The proof was in the pudding as soon as I flew in.
I felt like I entered another realm of the galaxy when I saw after coming from the pollution that is flying over JFK.
5.Here's another photo for good measure.
I stayed at the Savoy Palace, was having breakfast on the rooftop, happened to look up from my coffee, and saw this.
6.Passionfruit and black scabbardfish are big menu staples.
Black scabbardfish = a deep sea fish around Madeira that looks creepy but tastes delicious.
7.Doggy paddling in the natural infinity pools of Porto Moniz is a perfectly normal way to spend your afternoon.
In Porto Moniz, salt water flows in from the sea and volcanic rock becomes the camping ground for your towel. Things that will never impress me again: chlorine-filled in-grounds.
8.Madeira honey cake (aka Christmas cake) and butter biscuits with quince jam. Both things of great beauty.
9.These three drinks: a fresh passionfruit mojito, Poncha (a traditional shot concoction of rum, honey, sugar, and orange or lemon juice), and Brisa (a passionfruit soda).
10.Doors are covered in intricate artwork.
You'll definitely want to meander the narrow cobblestone streets of Old Town Funchal. There are delicious eateries, lively watering holes, local shops, and — see above — doors covered in intricate artwork.
11.You can face your fear of heights by hopping on the Madeira Cable Car.
AnaMaria Glavan / BuzzFeed
This preferred mode of transport departs from Old Town Funchal, ends at Monte Palace Tropical Garden, and allows for 15 uninterrupted minutes of clear skies and terracotta roof views. The NYC 7 train suddenly seems so much worse.
worse.Ticket cost: 11€ one way, 16€ roundtrip
12.Driving from place to place = views like this one.
13.And this one.
14.The gelato is delicious *and* cheap.
This rice and cinnamon flavor is so. damn. good. and if the quality of the ‘cream weren’t enough to convince you that it’s a must, then read my lips: two scoops costs 2 euro.
15.Touring traditional straw roof homes and sampling rum-based coffee liqueur = highly encouraged.
These homes are equipped with straw roofs and, while most are replicas due to the costly upkeep, there is still *one* original: the owner allows visitors to walk right in, and he even serves shots of a rum-based coffee liqueur.
It’s free to enter (as is the shot!), but you can leave a tip if you'd like. The home has been in the current owner’s family for generations and he upkeeps the property to its original design.
16.The rum is incredible.
Local rum is fantastic and you can swig a few samples at Porto da Cruz Steam Factory.
17.Big fan of high tea? Same. *This* is where you can enjoy scones and an English breakfast blend.
This is Reid's Palace, one of the most historic properties in Madeira and also my new dream home. Black tea, scones, and mini sandwiches are great… but coupled with this view? Have mercy.
Address: Estrada Monumental 139, 9000-098 Funchal, Portugal
18.There's the multi-level Monte Palace Tropical Garden.
A visit to the Monte Palace Tropical Garden means your future backyard will never compare. This lush multi-level oasis is 70,000 square meters of biodiversity, intricate architecture, and gorgeous artwork you should dedicate an entire afternoon to exploring.
Ticket cost: $10€
Address: Caminho do Monte 174, 9050-288 Funchal, Portugal
19.Meals look something like this.
This is black scabbardfish in filet form accompanied with a banana and passionfruit sauce.
20.And this.
AnaMaria Glavan / BuzzFeed
Behold this passionfruit soufflé.
21.And this.
All hail the above rainbow trout dish.
22.And this.
Madeira has the unique problem of harboring too much good food, which makes signing up for a food and wine tour with Discover Madeira an absolute must. My guide, Raquel, brings folks to seven local-approved spots that are great on your wallet and taste buds — this particular spot (Cristalina Chique Bar) was my favorite.
Address: Largo dos Lavradores 3, 9060-157 Funchal, Portugal
23.One can spend a morning with their head in the clouds. Literally.
This is Pico do Arieiro, the third highest peak in Madeira. The elevation rests at 5,965 feet and, on clear days, you'll feel as if you're floating above fluffy white cotton balls — I went when it was overcast and didn't get that experience, but tbh, I almost preferred it. This was just as ethereal.
24.Every corner feels like a photo opp.
iPhone storage? Full. Instagram followers? Annoyed.
