A Portuguese island located off the coast of Africa, Madeira is dramatic, encompassing remote mountain villages, misty forests, seaside resorts and wild, craggy coastlines. Its food is unique and delicious, with subtropical offerings, local delicacies and the famed Madeira wine. It is blessed with a subtropical climate, with an average temperature of 21°C - making it the perfect getaway for a Northern Hemisphere winter.
Portuguese sailors stumbled upon this uncharted territory in 1419, when it was a densely forested, uninhabited volcanic island. They named it for its lush forests - ‘Madeira’ means ‘wood’ in Portuguese - and colonised it over several years, planting sugar cane on its steep slopes and setting the island on its path to being the world’s biggest ‘white gold’ producer by the early 1500s. Its strategic location would later play a crucial role in Portugal’s expanding maritime trade routes. Madeira wine gave another boost to Madeira’s economy in the 17th and 18th centuries.
Today, Madeira’s unique history and setting intertwine in a laidback lifestyle and a rich and diverse culture, evident in every aspect of island life. From its stunning natural beauty to its historical landmarks, vibrant festivals, and delicious cuisine, a visit to Madeira immerses you in a culture that has been shaped by centuries of history, tradition, and a blend of global influences.
Stay at the luxurious Hotel Quinta da Bela Vista, with its superb views over Funchal Bay. Experience Madeira in December, when the island is at its most magical, twinkling with festive lights.
Explore the rich culture, food and history of this beautiful, subtropical island.
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Walk the network of levadas, explore the ancient Laurissilva forests and botanical gardens, and, if you’re brave, descend the steep slope to Funchal in a famous Mont Sledge.
Stay at the luxurious Hotel Quinta da Bela Vista, with its superb views over Funchal Bay. Experience Madeira in December, when the island is at its most magical, twinkling with festive lights.
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Enjoy a private tour, lunch and wine tasting at the historic Blandy’s Wine Lodge and try the famed chestnuts of beautiful Curral das Freitas, one of the most picturesque towns on the island.
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Some walking between destinations, more time spent standing, and increased travel distances. Requires a reasonable level of fitness.
If you have some questions about this particular tour, you can contact the Jon Baines Tours team by phone or email.
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