closer in proximity to Morocco, only 320 miles away, than to its country’s mainland, which is 600 miles away.

 

The island is known for its dramatic cliffs, subtropical gardens, scenic hikes, year-round mild weather and, from what I experienced while there, its wind and rainbows. Madeira has been called the “Island of Eternal Spring,” and it is an appropriate moniker.

 

I arrived from Paris, transiting through Lisbon, on a day in December that upon arrival was as perfect as a day could ever be.

 

 

A Luxurious Escape at Saccharum Resort & Spa
I began my first night outside of the main capital of Funchal at the Saccharum Resort & Spa, which was built on what was once a honey-production factory and mill for the manufacture of sugar cane rum. To that end, when you step inside the Saccharum, you will immediately feel homage paid to the land’s roots and former glory.

 

The décor is an easy contemporary design compliments of designer Nini Andrade Silva, who created the concept for this high-end, five-star resort. In fact, Saccharum Resort and Spa has received a number of international accolades including Best European Interior Design and World Luxury Spa Hotel in Portugal.

 

The hotel’s interior focuses on brown brick, stained concrete floors and honey-colored marks complemented with photographs from the days of the property’s production of sugar cane and honey.
While at the Saccharum Resort take the time to enjoy the spa with a variety of treatments and a unique mosaic-tile indoor pool. The property has several restaurants and bars, and after a short jaunt to Calheta for a peek at the Casa das Mudras Arts Center, I spent my time poolside near the outdoor restaurant.

 

 

Discovering Calheta
Located in the municipality of Calheta, this is the largest parish by population in the area with rural settings, strong vegetation and stunning North Atlantic Ocean views. From the Saccharum, which is the Latin name for the sugar cane arriving on the island in 1425, you can walk to Calheta Beach in about 10 minutes.

 

You will also want to explore the Ponta do Pargo Lighthouse or consider a whale and dolphin watching excursion. This can be booked from Calheta with a chance to see common and bottlenose dolphins, along with pilot and sperm whales. In fact, the beaches and hiking usually take center stage while enjoying a few nights in this laid-back town.

 

 

Funchal and the Savoy Palace
After Calheta, make your way to Funchal. Madeira’s Savoy Palace is a well-loved five-star property in Funchal and is situated in the perfect location to walk just about anywhere of importance in the city.

 

The rooms are inspired by Madeira’s nature and cultural heritage, and some suites have plunge pools along with panoramic Atlantic views. There are a number of restaurants to choose from, but at least one night you must enjoy Galáxia Skyfood since it is one of Madeira’s most exclusive rooftops.

 

There are also bars that cater to different moods and meals onsite, as well as a poolside grill and pizza venue, and a cigar bar. The pools include a rooftop infinity pool, huge outdoor pool and solarium, a kids-only pool, and a heated indoor pool adjacent to the spa.

 

The Laurea Spa — one of the largest hotel spas in Portugal and Europe — offers treatment rooms, sauna, Turkish bath, jacuzzi, steam and sensory showers, ice fountain, a halotherapy room, and a champagne and nails bar.

 

 

Exploring Funchal’s Historic Old Town
Just a short walk from the Savoy Palace you will find the brightly colored old town Zona Velha, with lovely painted doors, a short walk to the seafront promenade and marina, and attractions such as Mercado dos Lavradores and the cable car to Monte to add to your bucket list.

 

The “Old Zone” boasts history with a modern plot twist since the old merchants’ houses and 19th-century fishermen’s cottages are now part of Funchal’s nightlife and restaurant area. There are heritage buildings, such as churches, and architectural designs to discover in the old town, distinguishable of the city’s historical periods, with narrow cobbled streets taking you back in time.
On the east end of old town you will find Capela do Corpo Santo, the old fishermen’s chapel called the Chapel of the Holy Body from the 15th century. There is also a hat factory called Fábrica de Hats, which has been in the same location for over 60 years.

 

 

Nature, Wine and Local Flavors
Madeira’s Botanical Garden is worth a stop for exotic plants and a broad view that will introduce you to the island’s flora. Laurisilva Forest, a UNESCO Site, is located on Madeira with an ancient subtropical rainforest and a unique biodiversity.

 

For wine lovers, a Madeira wine tasting experience is worth an afternoon. The wine from this island is unique because of its deliberate heating and oxidation process that is said to duplicate old sea voyages, giving this wine high acidity with nutty and caramel flavors.

 

The food experiences on Madeira Island include Espetada (beef skewers on laurel sticks) and Bolo do caco (garlic flatbread), best enjoyed alongside a glass of Madeira wine.

 

 

Why Madeira Belongs on Your Travel List
Madeira Island’s dramatic scenic views are packed onto an island that is only 35 miles long and 14 miles wide. With fewer tourists, a mild climate year-round, and a chance to mix adventure with relaxation, this island is the perfect paradise any time of year.

 

 

For more information visit: https://visitmadeira.com/en