Madeira

A popular holiday destination so an overdue visit to check out what the island had in store. Think I was more looking forward to the landing at Funchal Airport that is usually notoriously tricky given the crosswinds that surge over the hills. Disappointingly it wasn't too bad but with pilots having to train specifically for landings here demonstrates the challenges that pilots have approaching the island.

Really enjoyed the trip - it's a beautiful island with great scenery and great food. The apartment was around a 10-15 minute walk downhill to the main strip, but had a balcony that provided great views across the city and out to sea.

Rua de Santa Maria is one of the main attractions, a quaint cobbled street lined by numerous independent restaurants all serving great food. The street art was also really interesting.

 

Palheiro Gardens is definitely worth a visit as firstly it is a fine place to wander round but also a spot where three of the Madeiran endemics were found; Madeira firecrest, Madeira chaffinch and Trocaz pigeon.

Machico is located north of the airport and is another lovely coastal town with sweeping bays and a marina adjacent to a promenade lined with numerous cafes. 

A dolphin and whale watching trip on one of the tourist boats was the only cost effective way of attempting to connect with some of the regions seabirds. Predictably it was all very quiet for both avifauna and Cetacea.

Bulwer's petrel were fairly common regularly seen passing the boat. A couple of unidentified storm petrel species were distant and seen all too briefly.

Back on land and there is so much to like about Funchal, it's hilly but the city has character and charm and is a pleasure to navigate.

The botanical gardens above the city deserve a wander through where the elevation provides lovely views over the city and out to sea.

The only 'longer' excursion we took was to the volcanic pools at Porto Muniz in the north. It is a spectacular town with its rocky laval structures and decent amenities for wandering around enjoying the pleasant scenery.

Back in Funchal for the final couple of days just wandering around without much of a plan which is the way we wanted it, relaxing, drinking coffee and eating at one of the fine city restaurants.

As expected, the cathedral was stunning.

The Funchal to Monte Cable Car was a great experience heading into the city's hillside parish to enjoy the panoramic views and across the city while hanging precariously from a gondola.

One of the restaurants that comes highly recommended is Sabor a Fado. It is a family run restaurant where food and music are served in equal measure and all by the family members. Food is served on long tables that gives it a cosy atmosphere. They pride themselves on sending love through the service they provide to their customers. A really fantastic experience.