Madeira Island, Portugal

Madeira is Semi-tropical and located in the Atlantic Ocean. Madeira is an autonomous part of Portugal and is therefore within the Euro-zone. The island has been transformed by European Union funding over the past decade. A new airport with a remarkable runway carried on stilts over sea and cliffs allows easier access from mainland Portugal and other parts of Europe. Access too many coastal and inland villages is being improved with extensive tunnelling through the mountainous terrain.

Whether you are looking for a superb golfing holiday, an unforgettable and indulgent break or a very special place for that once in a lifetime celebration, Madeira will deliver on that entire front. Madeira is a superb place for families, honeymooners, couples, groups and golfers alike.

Location

Madeira is an Island and is situated 600km from the coast of Morocco in Africa. The flight time from the UK and Ireland is between 3-4 hours depending on which airport you depart from.

Madeira has another Island with sandy beaches, ‘Porto Santo’ which can be accessed by ferry or air. The capital of Madeira is Funchal and transfer time from the airport is around 15 minutes.

Accommodation

Madeira has an array of accommodation which will cater for the most discerning traveller. There are luxurious 5 star hotels some of which are built on the cliffs and overlook the sea. There are also wonderful Quintas and Chateaux’s that would make the ideal romantic base for a honeymoon couple.

Golf

Madeira has three courses of note, Santo de Serra, Palheiro and Porto Santo the latter of which is located on the island of Porto Santo. Each course offers a different challenge to the golfer and a stern test to both amateurs and professionals. The climate in Madeira allows the golf courses to be opened and enjoyed all year round.
Golfing in Maderia

Activities & Facilities

Beaches

Being the island paradise that it is, Madeira has an extensive choice of beaches and pools scattered about for your enjoyment. Whether you are hoping to lounge around and soak up the sun or go swimming in the clear waters, there is a perfect beach or pool for everybody's wants and needs.

Madeira's beaches are mostly pebble beaches best known for their crystal clear waters and ideal temperatures. The island of Porto Santo has long sandy beaches if this is what you are looking for.

Boat Tours

The island of Madeira offers many different types of boat tours. Boating companies offer scuba trips, whale and dolphin watching tours, island tours as well as big game fishing tours.

All of these activities are a great way to get off the mainland, enjoy the sea breeze and soak up the sun.

Trekking

Madeira is a mountainous island and is a fantastic place to explore on foot. Trekking Madeira will take nature lovers along tranquil Levadas or up challenging peaks with great viewpoints. The landscape of Madeira holds something for all levels of walkers and hikers to delight in this islands activity. As about two thirds of the island is protected nature reserves, this is a walkers paradise.

Dining & Bars

Visitors can dine well and inexpensively in Madeira, especially on a diet of fish and vinho verde (light, slightly fizzy white wine). Scabbard fish (espada) is a local specialty, as are tuna (atum) and swordfish (espadarte—not to be confused with espetada, or beef kebabs, another local favorite). Vegetarians are lucky to find any main dishes more exciting than an omelet, but exotic fruits abound. NOT exactly a selling point!! There are also boat restaurants by the marina and are definitely worth a visit particularly the vessel once owned by the Beatles!

Madeira's focal point for pubs, bars and clubs is Funchal. Sip cocktails by the pool; enjoy folkloric shows and discos in most large hotels or the slot machines and games rooms at the Pestana Casino Park. Head to the harbour for clubs and bars; seek out Vespas, the island's largest club, for late nights and outdoor summer parties.