Top 4 Things You Have To Do In Madeira

It is so important to take a break and escape the daily stresses of everyday life. It is for this reason that many of us hop on a plane, to enjoy a long weekend or a 2 week stay in a resort somewhere hot. One of the most popular destinations for cheap holidays is Madiera. Not only can you bag yourself amazing deals here but there is so much to do and see. Below we have explored the top 5 things that you have to do before leaving this beautiful island in the Atlantic Ocean!

Funchal

Cheap holidays to Madeira are not complete without a visit to Funchal. Whilst here you can enjoy explore spacious parks, gaze at stunning buildings such as the 15^th Century Se Cathedral and 18^th Century mansions, whilst strolling along the elegant grey basalt and white marble pavements. Funchal also offers great views from the car. Take a drive along the impressive highways and see deep ravines, impressive skirt cliffs and stunning waterfalls. Definitely make sure that passengers have their cameras at the ready, as they will be able to take some great shots, which you can show off to your friends and family back home.

Scarlet Passion Flower

 

Madeira has some very impressive blooms, such as the ‘Scarlet Passion Flower’, which can seduce pretty much anyone. Make your cheap holiday is unforgettable by paying a visit to The Botanical Gardens located at Quinta do Bom Sucesso, which has stunning views of Funchal. These gardens are home to pretty much every type of tree and plant that is found on the island. Love orchids? Then make sure you check out Quinta da Boa Vista gardens, as this is the home to a renowned orchid collection.

Cable Cars

Dotted across the island are cable-car rides that allow you to take in the views of Madeira from an eagle’s-view perspective. We wouldn’t recommend this for those who are afraid of heights! One of the oldest rides on the island is the climb from Almirante Reis in old Funchal to Monte, which will take you 15 minutes. There are two options to travel back down the hill. You can either take the Monte Toboggan or take the cable car from Monte to the Botanical Gardens. The Monte Toboggan is for those thrill seekers out there as the best way to describe this mode of transport is comparing it to a large laundry basket placed on runners made of wood over cobbles. It is steered by experienced attendants, but bear in mind that they can only stop by using their footwear as breaks! 

Wales, Dolphins, Birds etc.

Madeira is home to a wide range of wildlife, which is why cheap holidays to this island should be accompanied by a wildlife spotting tour on the water. See whales, dolphins and a variety of birds, all in their natural habitat. More importantly, you will have the opportunity to see a monk seal, which is significant seeing as there are only around 500 left in the world. The best place to see these animals is the Deseras Islands – a handy little tip for you!

So whether you are looking for cheap holidays for you and partner, a family or group of friends, we highly recommend Madiera!

(Photo courtesy of Travel News)