Hotels Madeira
What to see by car: Madeira
 
The island of Madeira is only 56 kms long and about 21 kms across at its widest point and is ideal to explore by car. The island boasts close to 200 kms of coastline, but no beaches. In fact, the only beaches on the island archipelago are on Porto Santo.
Outside of Funchal is where the Madeira adventure really begins. It is easy to navigate the island by rental car; however, drivers should be wary of the narrow roads and hairpin turns. The circular N101 route goes once around the entire island. Less than 10 kms outside of Funchal lies the coastal village of Câmara de Lobos. This fishing village is filled with quaint white-washed and red-roofed cottages in a sheltered harbour. In the early morning, you can watch the fishermen unloading their overnight catch.
Nearby, you will find the village of Camancha, famous for its wicker baskets. Further north lies the Estreito de Câmara de Lobos, the heart of Madeira’s wine-growing region, a perfect place to taste a range of Madeira wines. Further from here, you will see the Cabo Girâo, one of the highest ocean-side cliffs in the world. The views of the waves breaking below and across the Bay of Funchal are just breathtaking.
Just east of Funchal, don’t miss the Quinta do Palheiro Ferreiro, a mansion owned by the Blandy wine family. The mansion boasts a 30-acre estate, with over 3,000 plant species, including exotic trees and many rare flowers. The gardens are a popular picnic spot with locals.
Driving through some of the most dramatic roads and tunnels, you will reach Curral das Freiras, located almost in the exact geographic centre of Madeira. The area lies in a valley of extinct volcanoes, which make the terrain look like a moonscape and are believed to be responsible for pushing the island out of the ocean. The village is surrounded by white-washed cottages with a quaint main square in the centre.
São Vicente is the best known town on the north coast, boasting some of the most dramatic coastlines on the island. The drive to São Vicente is for dare devils; the road is a feat of engineering and was literally carved out of the cliff face. However, the risk is worth it for the spectacular views of the coast and ocean.
Selection of hotels in this region:
Pestana Bay and Gardens Aparthotel | | Pestana Carlton Madeira Hotel | | Crowne Plaza Resort Madeira | | Tivoli Ocean Park | |
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full list of hotels and online booking
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