Travel
Madeira: the pearl of the Atlantic
By Solange Hando Blessed with year-round sunshine, lush botanical gardens and world-famous levadas, Madeira is so much more than a sun, sea and sand destination – although it certainly has its fair share of beaches too. Geologically dramatic and bursting with colour, this tiny subtropical archipelago is a hit with holidaymakers from all over. Set off the west coast of Africa, Madeira is made up of four Portuguese islands, but the largest – Madeira Island – is the one the world knows and loves. This is a place where you can hike amidst lush greenery and rugged mountains in the morning, and sunbathe on black-sand beaches in the afternoon. Diverse, safe and packed with culture and history, Madeira truly has something for everyone. In case you needed any more persuasion, here are just some of the reasons to put Madeira on your travel wish list, and what not to miss while you’re there.
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It’s a hiker’s paradise Hiking Madeira’s levadas is one of the island’s top activities, with thousands of people lacing up their hiking boots to discover Madeira’s secret interior each year. These irrigation canals were built to bring water from the north slopes to the south side of the island. Although still in use, they now have another purpose, providing a route for hikers to explore the island’s most dramatic landscapes. With more than 2,000km to explore at heights reaching 1,861m, there are walking trails to suit every experience level. Some of the easier routes can be found in the south of the island, while the trails that require a higher skill level are in the north. Whichever you choose, you can expect spectacular scenery and a truly immersive experience. If you’re up for a challenge, why not take on Madeira’s highest peak, Pico Ruivo?
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