Madeira
Sometimes called the ‘Floating Garden’, Madeira is a lush, sub-tropical island off the northwest coast of Africa. Palms, fig trees, mimosa, eucalyptus and bamboo thrive here, as well as a profusion of exotic flowers.
The climate is extremely pleasant and mild all year round – perfect for relaxing, sightseeing or walking. Madeira is actually an extinct volcano with stunning natural scenery. Deeply eroded gorges make their way down to the steep and rocky coast. Green valleys and hillside terraces produce sugar-cane, bananas and the grapes for those famous Madeira wines. The island has no sandy beaches but you can swim in rocky pools or Funchal’s excellent lido, and of course, many resorts have their own private swimming pools. The clear blue sea is ideal for scuba diving and deep-sea fishing.
Madeira Regency Palace
This luxury resort is beautifully situated, only a few minutes to the west of Funchal with a sea facing cliff top position and backed by the rugged ravines and mountains so famous to Madeira.
