Holidays in Madeira 
Madeira holidays self catering and more..
Madeira Holidays from CheapHolidays.comOverview
Madeira is a singularly beautiful island. The scenery is memorable and remarkably diverse, especially bearing in mind the island’s modest size. Madeira has been described as a ‘floating garden’, reflecting centuries of cultivation. The rich volcanic soil, mild climate and abundant rainfall (especially in the north) have been responsible for contrasting landscapes: lush river valleys, terraced hillsides planted with vines and bananas and dense primeval forest.
The most enjoyable way to explore the island is to follow the course of the levadas (irrigation channels) which crisscross the countryside. The island’s burgeoning coastal resorts are geared to the demands of modern tourism and the expansion of Santa Catarina Airport is expected to lead to a marked increase in the number of foreign visitors over the next decade.
Overview
Madeira is a singularly beautiful island. The scenery is memorable and remarkably diverse, especially bearing in mind the island’s modest size. Madeira has been described as a ‘floating garden’, reflecting centuries of cultivation. The rich volcanic soil, mild climate and abundant rainfall (especially in the north) have been responsible for contrasting landscapes: lush river valleys, terraced hillsides planted with vines and bananas and dense primeval forest.
The most enjoyable way to explore the island is to follow the course of the levadas (irrigation channels) which crisscross the countryside. The island’s burgeoning coastal resorts are geared to the demands of modern tourism and the expansion of Santa Catarina Airport is expected to lead to a marked increase in the number of foreign visitors over the next decade.
Holidays in Madeira have become increasingly popular and offer excellent value for money. Cheap holidays to Madeira are excellent value for money and ideal for families and couples.
Top Things To Do
Hike along the coastal path and savour the dramatic cliff top views. Walk through tranquil terraced valleys further inland. The levadas, a network of ancient irrigation channels stretching some 2,130km (1,333 miles) across the island’s slopes, are popular.
Try a traditional toboggan run. Today, the toboggans carry tourists with two men using ropes to control the wide carro, a large wicker basket mounted on wooden runners. Runs to Funchal are located in Monte and Terreiro da Luta.
Sample some of the distinctive and world-famous Madeira wine. The grapes are pressed where they are grown and carried down the hills in goatskin bags by porters. The famous Madeira Wine Festival takes place annually in September.
Unwind over a round of golf. The Campo de Golfe do Santo da Serra (27-hole) (website: www.santodaserragolf.com) and Palheiro (18-hole) (website: www.palheirogolf.com) are the two courses on the island, the former offering spectacular panoramic ocean views from its 500m- (1,640ft-) high location.
Have a go at deep-sea fishing, for which Madeira is well-known, particularly blue marlin. A number of companies offer fishing tours to suit all budgets and tastes. Special charters can be arranged for groups.
See Contact Addresses for further tourist information.
Madeira Weather and Climate
Climate
Mild climate with warm summers and extremely mild winters.
Required Clothing
Mid-seasonal wear.
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