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Funchal - sky guide
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Funchal, located 600kms off the Moroccan coast, has been under Portuguese rule for almost 350 years. It is the lush island capital of the Madeira archipelago, sometimes referred to by locals as a ‘floating garden’ because of its breathtaking scenery.
Funchal’s town centre is filled with beautiful old architecture and historical buildings. The 15th century Convento de Santa and the 16th century Igreja do Colégio church, located in the main square, are two of the most impressive structures, while the town port is embellished with exquisite decorative paving.
The natural environment, however, is Funchal’s most prominent and spectacular feature. At ocean-level, the flourishing semi-tropical vegetation colours the island with vibrant hues, and its beauty is offset by the contrast of rugged volcanic mountain peaks. There are several parks and gardens which preserve this exotic flora in serene environments. The Botanical Gardens, the Quinta do Palheiro and the Monte Palace Tropical Gardens are all wonderful places to go for a stroll or spend a leisurely few hours.
There are a number of atmospheric markets scattered throughout the centre of the island. The lively City Market, at Plaça do Comércio every Saturday, sells a wide selection of food and crafts, and is a good place to pick up gifts or souvenirs. The Funchal Workers Market sells a wide variety of local goods, including nuts, vegetables, fruit, fish and flowers.
Madeira is famous for its wine, and the Adegas de São Franciso offers tours showing how it is made and stored. There are also several museums in Funchal, focusing on topics from sacred art to local arts and crafts.
The Entertainment Complex at Casino Park is a fun place to go for a night out. Alternatively, there is Copacabana, a nearby dance club. In the centre of town, O Patio is a popular restaurant, as is Casa da Carochinha, opposite Centenary Gardens.
There are many fascinating areas to explore across the island. On the northern coast, Santana is a local village where visitors can see the traditional triangular homes of the local people. Eira do Serrado, 16kms northwest of the town centre, is an excellent vantage point from which to view the Grande Curral, an extinct volcano crater.
Due to Funchal’s island status and the lack of regular ferries to the area, air travel is the only viable option for getting here. Madeira Airport can be reached from most parts of the world by direct or charter flight.
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