Madeira

Also known as the “Island of Eternal Spring” thanks to its mild climate all year round. Madeira is a Portuguese archipelago located in the Atlantic Ocean, known for its dramatic landscapes, lush mountains, volcanic origins, and stunning ocean views, it is one of Portugal’s most unique destinations to live, visit, and invest in.

The archipelago is composed of four islands but its focal points are mainly Madeira Island and Porto Santo, with Funchal as its capital and economic centre. Madeira is also an autonomous region of Portugal, with its own regional government, while still benefiting fully from EU membership.

Funchal is the capital and largest city of the Madeira Islands, located on the southern coast of Madeira Island. The city offers a rich mix of culture, history, and leisure, from beautiful botanical gardens and historic streets to a lively harbour surrounded by renowned restaurants, cafés, and markets.
It’s the perfect base for exploring the island while enjoying urban comforts.

The historic heart of Funchal is filled with cobbled streets, colourful doors, traditional restaurants, and centuries-old buildings. Walking through Zona Velha offers a glimpse into Madeira’s past while enjoying local gastronomy, art galleries, and lively terraces. It’s also one of the best places to experience Madeiran nightlife in a relaxed and authentic setting.

Cabo Girão is one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, standing at around 580 metres above sea level. Its glass-floored skywalk offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the coastline below. For adrenaline seekers, the area is also popular for paragliding and base jumping, making it one of Madeira’s top thrill destinations. This viewpoint is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience Madeira’s dramatic geography.

Located high above Funchal, Monte Palace is one of Madeira’s most iconic attractions. The tropical gardens feature exotic plants from around the world, koi ponds, African sculptures, and stunning views over the island. Nearby, you’ll also find the famous Monte toboggan rides, a unique and fun way to descend the hill in traditional wicker sleds.

For those who enjoy adventure and hiking, Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo offer some of the most spectacular views in Portugal.

With over 2,000 kilometres (1,300 miles) of hiking trails, Madeira is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Starting at the Queimadas Forest Park. This trail is relatively accessible and rewards hikers with lush scenery, tunnels, waterfalls, and stunning viewpoints.

The Laurisilva Forest is one of Madeira’s greatest natural treasures. This ancient subtropical forest dates back millions of years and is recognised by UNESCO for its ecological importance. It’s a paradise for hikers and nature lovers, with numerous walking trails known as levadas that guide you through valleys, waterfalls, and dense greenery.

A short flight or ferry ride from Madeira Island, Porto Santo is known for its 9km-long golden sandy beach and calm waters. Unlike Madeira’s dramatic cliffs, Porto Santo offers a flatter landscape and a slower pace of life, making it ideal for beach lovers and wellness-focused living.

This picturesque fishing village, just west of Funchal, is famous for its colourful boats and traditional atmosphere. It was also a favourite painting spot of Winston Churchill. Câmara de Lobos is also the birthplace of poncha, Madeira’s traditional drink made with sugarcane rum, honey, and citrus.

Madeira is world-famous for its fortified wine, with origins dating back to the late 15th century when the island served as a key stop for transatlantic ships. Madeira wine ranges from dry to sweet, offering something for every palate.

Wine lovers can book guided wine tastings and cellar tours across the island to learn about the production process and sample different varieties. It’s an essential cultural experience when visiting Madeira.

A must-try Madeiran speciality, Espetada is a traditional dish made from chunks of beef seasoned with garlic, salt, and bay leaf, then marinated in Madeira wine, vinegar, and olive oil. The meat is skewered and grilled over an open flame, resulting in a flavourful and authentic local dish.

The Desertas Islands, a small group of uninhabited islands south-east of Madeira, are a protected natural reserve and a haven for wildlife. These islands are home to rare species such as the Mediterranean monk seal and the Madeiran wall lizard, as well as diverse birdlife.

Boat trips to the Desertas offer a unique opportunity to experience Madeira’s untouched nature and biodiversity.

If you're looking to invest in Portuguese property, Madeira presents a compelling opportunity. The region continues to grow in popularity among expats, retirees, and remote workers, while maintaining strong demand for quality real estate.

Portugal Homes is here to help you explore property investment opportunities in Madeira and guide you through every step of the process.