It is cold, gross, and raining in London… ick. Every year February is the shortest month but of course this year it has an extra day just to add insult to injury. I can not wait for longer days and warmer weather and for the moment, can not stop day dreaming of tropical destinations. One place I have been that I would love to go back to is Madeira. It may not be as famous as the other nearby Spanish isles, the Canary Islands, but this Portuguese archipelago should be on everyone’s list. Here are 12 suggestions of what to do in Madeira.
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(3) Take a dolphin & whale tour – Dolphins have been my favorite animal since I was a child and this was definitely the highlight of my trip. I wrote a full post on this, check out Distinctive Dolphins in Madeira recap.
(4) Enjoy a glass of port | Yes, Porto is the key place to drink port but Maderia is still Portugal. You can find it at nearly every restaurant on the isalnd and if you want to take some home Blandy’s Wine Lodge, the second photo below. The shop was recommended by quite a few people and I love that on Google it is just called “ A Loja do Vinho ” which literally just translates to “the wine Ssore”.
(8) Visit the Madeira Botanical Garden – There are flowers and then there are flowers and the ones at the Jardim Botânico da Madeira, the Madeira Botanical Garden, are the later. This gorgeous spot can get quite busy but there is no need to buy tickets (7 euro a piece) ahead of time, you can get them at at the gate and enjoy both the gorgeous views of Funchal and the see as well as the blooms at the same time.
(9) Enjoy a scenic sailboat ride – I had not planned to take a sailboat ride while I was in Madeira but after having such a magical time on the dolphin tour I knew I wanted to spend even more time on the water. In a very un-Kelly like move I booked a same day sail from a local vendor in the marina and had a great few hours on a giant catamaran. I am waring the Solid Halter Tie Side Bikini Swimsuit in white.
(10) Scuba Dive – Explore the island from underwater
(11) Enjoy the fresh, local Seafood – I will eat seafood any day of the week but fresh seafood is definitely my first choice. I had quite a few amazing dishes in Madeira but the scallops with seasonal risotto at Avista Restaurant was definitely the best. The food was incredible and having a table overlooking the Atlantic Ocean as the sun set could not be beat. Even for a table of one you need a reservation and you can read the MICHELIN Guide’s thoughts on Avista here.
Of these dozen things to do in Madeira which would be your top pick?
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Stephen says
I never really thought about where port comes from. I don’t really drink it but I am always up for a tasting anytime anywhere.
Looks like such a pretty spot and will have to add it to my list of spots to visit which keeps on growing as an avid reader of your blog.
Tabitha says
Quite honestly, I’ve never even heard of this town before and/or city however, I sure would like to go there.
I always love reading about your travel adventures and have gone to so many places that you have recommended. You really should work for one of the top travel Magazines as your insights are always so helpful.
Keep up the good work.