Madeira
The sky is gray, the drizzle is lashing against the windows, and winter at home in Switzerland feels like it will never end. Do you know that feeling when you just need to escape that bitter grey of February for a while? Out into the sun, to the sea, somewhere where the world has color again…..That’s exactly how I felt. So I didn’t hesitate and simply booked a flight to Madeira. Ever heard of it?
Along with the Azores, the Canary Islands, and Cape Verde, Madeira belongs to the Macaronesian Islands. Despite its proximity to the Canary Islands, Madeira is not part of Spain, but of Portugal. The island is located in the Atlantic Ocean – between Portugal and North Africa, more precisely 951 km southwest of Lisbon and 737 km west of the Moroccan coast. Madeira is actually an archipelago consisting of the main island and several smaller islands.
Madeira in February
You might be wondering if February is a good time to travel to Madeira. Let me tell you: Yes, it is! The island offers a mild, subtropical climate year-round, often referred to as the “Island of Eternal Spring”. Temperatures are consistently pleasant, with daytime highs of around 19 to 20°C in winter and 26 to 29°C in summer. While the south is sunny and dry, the north is considered cooler and wetter.
Due to the mild climate, the vegetation blooms all year round, covering the entire island with lush greenery and colorful flowers.
February is a quiet, mild and green time to travel – ideal for active explorers!
How i explored Madeira on foot
The island is a true paradise for hiking!
Madeira’s Highest Mountains: In the Madeira highlands, you’ll find several peaks over 1,000 meters high. At 1,862 meters, Pico Ruivo is the highest (and most popular) of them. You can climb it by driving to its neighboring peak, Pico Arieiro (1,810 meters). Pico do Cedro (1,759 meters) is another beautiful summit to reach. And from Pico Grande (1,654 meters), you can enjoy a magnificent panorama of the high mountains, Paul da Serra, and the Valley of the Nuns. What’s more, you’ll often have this mountain all to yourself.
Levada hiking on Madeira: Levadas are man-made waterways that carry water from the north of Madeira to the arid south. The first settlers began diverting the spring water as early as 1460. The water was needed to irrigate the terraced fields and to power grain and sugarcane mills. Later, it was used to generate electricity. There are 200 levadas on the island! You should definitely check out these three levada hiking trails: 1. Caldeirão Verde: It leads through four tunnels to a 100-meter-high waterfall. 2. The Levada of the 25 Springs: It takes you to a blue lagoon where 25 spring waters cascade down. 3. The end of the Levada dos Balcões is a viewpoint from which you can admire Madeira’s highest peaks.
Cabo Girão Viewpoint: At 589 meters above sea level, Cabo Girão is the highest cliff in Madeira. It drops almost vertically into the ocean, and there are incredible views both from the top of the cliff and from sea level. A glass viewing platform has been built at the top of the cliff, extending over the edge and providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, Funchal (9 km away), and the small cultivated fields along the coast.
How I discoveres Madeira in a relaxed way
Funchal and the Mercado dos Lavradores
A visit to Funchal, Madeira’s vibrant capital, is practically unavoidable. A visit to the Mercado dos Lavradores in the historic old town is particularly worthwhile. The city’s largest market hall offers something for everyone.
Explore the three floors, savor the aromas of fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and flowers, and sample the many exotic delicacies. And if the sight of it all makes your stomach rumble, you can enjoy a delicious lunch afterward in one of the charming cafés surrounding the market.
Porto Santo Beach
Located about 50 kilometers off the coast of Madeira, Porto Santo invites you to relax and unwind. Peace and tranquility are highly valued by the island’s mere 5,000 inhabitants. Leave the stress and hustle and bustle of everyday life behind to enjoy the stunning natural surroundings and take in the breathtaking scenery. Spend unforgettable moments on one of the golden sandy beaches, refresh yourself in the crystal-clear sea, or explore this 11-kilometer-long island paradise with a leisurely stroll along the beach.
Lava Pools of Porto Moniz
Instead of miles of sandy beaches, the beautiful town of Porto Moniz offers numerous small coves and natural pools nestled among the rugged volcanic rock, perfect for swimming and refreshing yourself.
These unique, natural lava pools are ideal for families with young children who want to enjoy the crystal-clear water, the stunning play of colors, and the picturesque surroundings in peace and quiet. While you swim and relax safely in these tranquil pools, you’ll have a fantastic view of the rugged coastline and the vast ocean.
My Conclusion
Madeira was a wonderful experience for me. I was able to escape the grayness of February and enjoy the greenery of this eternally blooming island. A multifaceted place and therefore rightly a true pearl of the Atlantic – even in winter!.