4 Days in Madeira, Portugal Island | WOW "The Hawaii of Europe"

Summary

Explore the stunning island of Madeira in this travel vlog by Suitcase Monkey. From the vibrant city of Funchal to its lush landscapes, volcanic peaks, and serene waterfalls, the island offers something for every traveler. Experience scenic hikes along levadas, stunning views from the cable car, and discover historical sites like the 1600s fortress. Whether it's relaxing in tropical gardens or enjoying delicious local food, Madeira provides a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. The video also includes helpful travel tips for navigating the island, including transport options and hiking routes.

Takeaways

• 😀 Madeira, though geographically closer to Africa, is only 2 hours from Lisbon and is often called the 'Hawaii of Europe' due to its stunning landscapes.
• 😀 Funchal, Madeira's capital, is a great base for exploration, with attractions like the Farmers Market, a fortress from the 1600s, and the famous Cable Car.
• 😀 The Cable Car in Funchal takes visitors up 540 meters in 20 minutes, offering fantastic views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
• 😀 Monte Palace, a historical site with beautifully landscaped tropical gardens, is a highlight of Funchal's attractions and a personal favorite of the traveler.
• 😀 Madeira is a hiker's paradise, offering 30 official hiking routes, with the Levada (narrow aqueducts) being a major feature integrated into hiking paths.
• 😀 The PR6 hiking route, though popular and busy, provides a coffee stop and breathtaking scenery along the way to the final waterfall.
• 😀 The island offers stunning sunrises, and the drive through Madeira’s hilly, twisty roads provides plenty of scenic pit stops.
• 😀 Madeira's north coast offers quiet, non-touristy waterfalls, providing a more peaceful experience compared to busier spots on the island.
• 😀 Funchal is filled with historic and modern attractions, such as botanical gardens with nearly 3,000 species of plants, making it an ideal final stop.
• 😀 Travel tips include rental cars for exploring the island, as public transport can be less frequent the farther you are from Funchal, but a day bus pass can be convenient.
• 😀 The traveler suggests downloading useful apps, like All Trails for hikes and The Fork for restaurant deals, and recommends renting a small car for easy navigation through Madeira’s steep roads.

Q & A

What makes Madeira a popular travel destination despite being geographically closer to Africa?

Madeira is a popular destination due to its proximity to Europe, being just a 2-hour flight from Lisbon. Its diverse landscapes, which include volcanic mountain peaks, waterfalls, seaside towns, and tropical gardens, contribute to its appeal, earning it the nickname 'Hawaii of Europe'.

What are some of the historical elements seen in Funchal?

Funchal is rich in history, with settlements dating back to the 1400s. It was an important stop during Portugal's dominance in world trade, especially between Europe and the Americas. The local Farmers Market is one place where traces of this trade history can be observed.

How did the fortress in Funchal contribute to Madeira's history?

The fortress in Funchal, built in the 1600s, was Portugal's response to frequent pirate attacks that had devastated the area, serving as a defensive structure during those turbulent times.

What is the significance of the Cable Car in Funchal?

The Cable Car in Funchal is a prominent attraction that offers stunning views of the town. It takes visitors 540 meters up to Monte, where it serves as transportation to the Monte Palace's tropical gardens.

What is Monte Palace known for?

Monte Palace, originally a stately home and later a hotel, is now a centerpiece surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens. It is one of the highlights of Madeira due to its scenic beauty and tranquil atmosphere.

What unique feature of Madeira is integrated into the hiking trails?

Madeira’s hiking trails are unique because they often follow levadas, which are narrow aqueducts that carry water across the island. Over 3000 km of these waterways have been incorporated into hiking paths, making them a distinctive feature of the island.

How does driving in Madeira compare to other places?

Driving in Madeira can be challenging due to its hilly and winding roads. The roads often feature sharp turns, and GPS can display routes in unusual ways. However, driving is relatively easy for those accustomed to such terrain.

What is the PR6 hike in Madeira, and what makes it popular?

The PR6 hike is one of Madeira’s more popular routes, offering a moderate trek with scenic views. It is famous for its accessibility and the chance to see stunning waterfalls along the way, although it can get crowded due to its popularity.

What should visitors know about hiking the PR1 trail in Madeira?

The PR1 trail is one of the most famous hikes in Madeira, but it is recommended for intermediates and above due to its challenging terrain. Visitors should also be aware that it can take a full day to complete, though shorter portions of the hike are available for those looking for a lighter experience.

How does public transportation in Funchal work, and what are some tips for visitors?

Public transportation in Funchal consists of frequent buses, with day passes available for €5. The buses are convenient for getting around town, but for those wanting to explore more remote areas, renting a car might be a better option. Buses arrive every 5 to 10 minutes, and single rides are around €2.