Explore Madeira, an amazing island in the Atlantic Ocean
Staying at Dreams Madeira Resort & Spa not only gives you access to this stunning island, but also the opportunity to enjoy a luxury experience with all the amenities and services that our 5-star resort and its surroundings have to offer.
Madeira is an island formed by volcanoes on an enchanting archipelago of the same name. Along with its neighboring island of Porto Santo and the uninhabited Desertas Islands, Madeira is a paradise of natural wonders waiting to be explored. With a population of around 240,000 inhabitants, Madeira is home to a number of lively urban areas surrounding the city of Funchal, as well as the famous fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, known for its painting of Winston Churchil.
Explore the diverse landscapes across the island, from the unusual coastline that runs along the ocean to the majestic mountains dotted across the main island of Madeira. Pico Ruivo, the highest peak, reaches a dizzying height of 1862 meters and is surrounded by the most rugged and impressive mountain chain on the island. Enjoy the temperate spring climate of Madeira, which offers an ideal environment throughout the year for hiking, making it the perfect place for nature lovers.
Attractions in Madeira
Madeira offers a wealth of natural and cultural attractions that you cannot miss:
Funchal
Make sure you visit the center of this city on the southern coast of the island, and explore its streets and most iconic buildings. Wander the labyrinth of narrow cobbled streets full of bright and vibrant colors. It is the perfect place to take a break and enjoy a drink or some lunch.
Laurisilva Forest
Classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, this forest offers a rich variety of local animal species, gigantic trees and many plants that you won’t find anywhere else on Earth. There are also numerous species of birds living in protected conservation areas in the forest.
Lido seafront promenade
A beautiful seafront promenade with gardens, where you can relax and visit one of the tallest cliffs in Europe.
Curral das Freiras
This parish is located in a valley and offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes on the island, particularly from the Eira Do Serrado viewpoint.
Porto Santo Island
A peaceful island with soft sandy beaches and incredibly clear waters. It is also the perfect destination for lovers of golf, one of the most popular activities on the island. You can visit by using the daily boat or plane services.
Stunning Beaches of Madeira
Discover the magical pristine beaches on the coast of Madeira. Enjoy the natural beauty of the sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and impressive views of the sea. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, thrilling water sports or a peaceful getaway, the coastal treasures of Madeira offer something for every taste.
Praia Formosa
Located in Funchal, Praia Formosa is a popular pebble beach with impressive sea views and calm and crystal clear waters. It is the largest public beach in Madeira and offers many services, such as restaurants, cafes and changing facilities, so you are sure to have a pleasurable experience at the beach.
Praia da Calheta
Located in the picturesque town of Calheta, this man-made beach is a favorite for both residents and tourists. With its golden sands, tranquil marina and varied water sports, Praia da Calheta is a perfect place to relax and go on adventures. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of restaurants, bars and accommodation options nearby.
Prainha de Caniçal
Tucked away in the town of Caniçal, Prainha De Caniçal is a hidden gem where you can enjoy a relaxing getaway. This small pebble beach is surrounded by breathtaking cliffs and lush vegetation, creating a wonderfully serene environment. It is the perfect place to go snorkeling and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature. Prainha de Caniçal is appreciated for its untouched beauty and the feeling of isolation it offers, away from the more popular tourist areas.
Culture
Monte Palace Tropical Garden
This cultural attraction in Monte, Funchal, combines lush botanical gardens with fascinating artwork. Here you can discover exotic plants, peaceful lakes and an extraordinary collection of sculptures from all over the world.
Madeira Story Center
The Madeira Story Center in Funchal offers an immersive experience where you can discover the history and culture of the island. With interactive exhibitions and multimedia presentations, you can learn about the volcanic origins, maritime heritage and traditional crafts of Madeira.
Blandy’s Wine Lodge
A visit to Madeira would not be complete without exploring its famous winemaking heritage. Take a guided tour to learn about its unique winemaking process, discover its historic wineries and taste some of the most iconic wines of Madeira.
Gastronomy in Madeira
The cuisine you will find on the archipelago of Madeira is as delicious as it is unique, with typical regional dishes and many international options. Thanks to its location surrounded by the sea, it has access to some exquisite fish and shellfish. There are many traditional dishes to sample, such as beef cut into cubes and grilled on skewers over bay leaves, then served with fried corn; the famous vinha-d’alhos sandwich, made with marinated pork; and bolo do caco, a local bread made with wheat flour and garlic butter, which should be eaten warm. And if you love fruit, you will be in heaven on the island of Madeira.
Madeira Wine
Madeira wine has a long history dating back over five centuries, and it is known and appreciated all over the world. Key factors are the island’s rich soil and special climate, as well as the production process and the grape varieties grown. The most noble of these are Sercial, Boal, Verdelho and Malvasia.
Outdoor Activities
The island of Madeira offers an exceptional geography and climate for a wide range of outdoor activities. Particularly popular and reinvigorating are the traditional levadas y veredas (a system of paths that covers the entire archipelago). For several centuries, Madeira has been a sought-after destination due to the therapeutic properties of its climate. Immerse yourself in the calm, transparent ocean, benefit from plant and seaweed extracts, enjoy the scents of flowers and the clean air: the perfect recipe for renewed energy.