5 interesting facts about Madeira Island

5 INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT MADEIRA ISLAND

 

Madeira is a real treasure chest of surprises.
Find out about the fascinating features of this archipelago that are guaranteed to surprise you !!

1. PICO RUIVO IS THE HIGHEST MOUNTAIN ON THE ISLAND

Madeira’s Pico Ruivo is notable not only for its breathtaking panoramic views, but also for standing at an impressive 1,862 metres above sea level. Not only is it this region’s highest peak, it is also the third highest point in Portugal, making it a must-see attraction on this Atlantic island.

The climb to the top of Pico Ruivo is a challenging one that offers visitors a memorable experience. The exhilarating trails and stunning landscapes along the way make this adventure a popular choice for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. It is a unique opportunity to connect with the natural grandeur of Madeira and appreciate the unspoilt beauty all around.

We highly recommend a visit to Pico Ruivo for anyone who wishes to explore the natural wonders of the island. Once you reach the top, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views, where Madeira's verdant landscapes blend with the ocean horizon, creating a truly awe-inspiring scene. Prepare yourself for an exciting experience and a unique perspective on the beauty and grandeur of Madeira from the top of Pico Ruivo. ...

2. MADEIRA WINE IS ONE OF THE BEST KNOWN IN THE WORLD

Madeira wine is renowned for its rich history, range of styles and its remarkable ability to age over decades, developing extraordinary flavours over time.

Interestingly, Madeira wine was used to toast the Declaration of Independence of the United States of America in 1776, an important milestone in the history of wine-growing on the island.

Over the years, Madeira wine has continued to delight wine lovers around the world and plays a significant role in Portugal's cuisine. If you haven't had the chance to try this oenological wonder, you are missing out on a unique and memorable experience.

Discover the complex aromas, balanced sweetness and length that make Madeira wine a true jewel of world viticulture !!

3. THE ORIGIN OF THE NAME CÂMARA DE LOBOS

On the south coast of Madeira, visitors are immediately taken by the breathtaking beauty of the town of Câmara de Lobos, also known as the Land of Fishermen. Câmara de Lobos [Chamber of Wolves] was given its unusual name due to the large influx of monk seals, known on the island as sea lions [literally ‘sea wolves’ in Portuguese], which used to inhabit the cove and the local caves, known as ‘câmaras’ [chambers].

Although the seals are now concentrated in the Desertas Islands Nature Reserve, Câmara de Lobos retains its reputation as a popular place for the catching of black scabbardfish and for its seafront setting.

For maritime and culinary enthusiasts, a visit to Câmara de Lobos is a must !!

4. THE HIGHEST PROMONTORY IN EUROPE

Cabo Girão is located in the parish of Câmara de Lobos, with scenery not found anywhere else in the world.

Cabo Girão is the highest promontory in Europe, at an impressive 580 metres above sea level. Its suspended glass platform, or skywalk, is currently one of the most popular and commonly photographed destinations on Madeira.

Allow plenty of time to look round and take in the spectacular landscape on offer. Enjoy breathtaking views of the sea and admire the harmonious setting of the green mountains and farmland around you. Cabo Girão is a real delight in every sense . ..

5. THE ‘LEVADAS’ ARE OVER 400 YEARS OLD

Levadas are gently sloping water channels designed to transport water from the north of Madeira, where the climate is wetter and rainier, to the south, where it is drier and densely populated with extensive plantations.

Levadas date back to the early colonisation of the island in the 15th century, when they were built to supply water to sugar cane plantations and make sugar production possible. As well as being essential for sugar cane, the levadas also played a crucial role in irrigating the vineyards, which gave rise to the iconic Madeira Wine.
Today, the levadas stretch for around 1400 kilometres and are found all over the island, from the Laurissilva forest to its rocky cliffs.

For lovers of hiking who are looking to explore the mountains, forests, waterfalls and viewpoints, travelling along a levada allows you to enjoy the natural richness of the archipelago, an experience that is not only unique but also invigorating !!