The 'paradise island' of Madeira lies some 360 miles from the North African coast, an outpost of Europe in the Atlantic Ocean. Madeira with its balmy climate and stunning scenery has understandably become the aspirational holiday destination of the 'old world'.
With so much to offer, it's no wonder that Madeira Island appeals to the discerning tourist looking for something beyond the hustle of many a Mediterranean package holiday.
With its relaxed atmosphere and sophisticated life-style, Madeira's cosmopolitan capital Funchal is virtually crime free. With superb 4 and 5 star hotels, excellent and affordable gastronomy plus efficient, clean public transport getting about is never a problem. And if the bus doesn't appeal, taxis are well regulated and offer good value while car hire is also an option many choose. |
Away from Funchal, the coasts and interior offer a diversity of landscapes rarely found in such a comparatively small area. Volcanic in nature and blessed with sheer cliffs, blue seas and skies, verdant mountains and the most wonderful flora, Madeira Island is truly diverse. The south coast, sheltered from the prevailing trade breezes is the calmest, whilst the rugged north coast is a spectacle of blue, green and white as the relentless Atlantic surf outlines each cliff, bay and cove.
The mountains are sheer and spectacular, their tops sometimes shrouded in mist, a micro-climate all of their own; its hard to believe that they are just a few miles from the warm sunny coast. With so many attractions to visit, why not let someone else do the driving and take a luxury coach tour of the most interesting and picturesque parts of the island.
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