Machico - Madeira Hotels
Mini guide to Machico - Madeira
Machico is a quaint fishing village on the island of Madeira, favoured by more
mature travellers who come to enjoy the traditional resort atmosphere, excellent
shopping, wonderful dining and, of course, the magnificent plant-life of the
surrounding area.
The charming and typical bay, along with the steep deep valley behind, turns
Machico into an authentic picture postcard of natural beauty. As well as being
an active fishing port, Machico is also an attractive tourist resort. The main
church, built in the 15th century in the Manueline style, is the most impressive
building.
Another major attraction in town is the intriguing Museum of the Whale, featuring
a whaling boat, a cachalot whale (made of glass fibre), windows made from whalebone
and whale jaws, plus photographs and prints. The Machico Tourist Office is housed
in the triangular fort of Santo Amaro. Built in 1706, the fort has withstood
the onslaught of many pirate attacks.
Dishes such as black swordfish, tuna steak, tuna escabèche and the traditional
espetada (meat brochettes), served with fried corn (a regional staple) and the
very tasty bolo do caco (a round, flat loaf - typical of Madeira), are traditional
dishes which are served in Machico's fine restaurants.
One of the greatest tourist attractions of the island of Madeira is its spectacular
landscape, which is best seen by car. A typical drive will reveal a vast array
of exotic plants of every form and colour. North of Machico, follow the road
up to Pico do Facho. This place offers a panoramic view over the Machico valley
and the peaks at the centre of the island, including São Lourenço.
Point of entry is the Aeroporto de Madeira, about five kilometres south of
Machico. Planes arrive from Lisbon and also directly from London, taking 1 hour,
30 minutes and 4 hours, respectively. The quickest and most convenient way to
reach the town is to take a taxi, which can set you back around €5 to €10.
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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