Garajau - Madeira Hotels
Mini guide to Garajau - Madeira
Located on the island of Madeira, Garajau is a town that remains little affected
by the outside world. It maintains a relaxing, friendly atmosphere and is nestled
amid some truly wonderful countryside.
The Nature Reserve of Parcial do Garajau was created in 1986 and is the principal
attraction of the area. This is the only purely marine reserve in Portugal.
Extraordinary crystal-clear water assures ideal scuba diving conditions and
is one of the reasons for the marine biodiversity of this habitat.
Garajau's hillside setting offers stunning sea views, and the town's name refers
to the many garajaus (sea birds) that nest here. Garajau is located on the coast
between Funchal and Canico; near the town, the promontory of Ponta do Garajau
contains a large statue of Christ the King.
Visitors who stay in Garajau usually come to appreciate the nature, and scuba
diving is very popular here. The exotic marine life is in abundance due to the
no-fishing rule and visibility is superb. There are some lovely little eateries
in town serving up traditional Portuguese dishes; for lively nightlife, you'll
have to make the short trip to the capital, Funchal.
Travelling by car is the best way to explore the island, as public transport,
although improving, isn't very flexible. The hidden valleys and peaks of the
island all deserve a visit, as do the several botanical gardens, some of which
are part of old private residencies now open to the public. Funchal is easily
explored on foot and is the island's life and soul, boasting a glitzy nightlife
and superb dining.
The Aeroporto de Madeira, northeast of Garajau, is the point of entry to Madeira.
It receives regular TAP flights from Lisbon, as well as from London. The Sociedad
de Automibiles de Madeira bus runs from the airport to Garajau, continuing on
to Funchal. Metered taxis are available at the airport and it will take about
10 to 15 minutes to reach Garajau.
http://www.madeiratourism.org
Selection of hotels in this region:
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full list of hotels and online booking
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