Fly from Nice to Funchal

Warmed all year round by the trade winds and the Gulf Stream, Madeira enjoys a privileged climate. If the mercury isn’t flirting with 20°C, chances are it’s well above that! The conditions are always perfect for exploring what’s known as “the Garden of the Atlantic” or the “Island of Flowers”. But whether you’re visiting as a couple or with friends, be prepared to walk a lot in Madeira. Stroll through Funchal’s gardens, wander the streets of coastal villages, trek along trails in the 20-million-year-old laurel forest, or follow the levadas – irrigation channels that crisscross Madeira’s mountains, leading you to stunning viewpoints and spectacular waterfalls.

And when you’re not walking, what’s left to do? Swim, of course! Whether on Madeira itself or the nearby island of Porto Santo, you’ll find plenty of stunning pebble and black- or golden-sand beaches. All are perfect places to spread your towel, take a dip in the cool waters, and soak up the sun. If you’re visiting with family, head for the coves, which are sheltered from the Atlantic rollers; or wade in any of the famous natural pools carved into the volcanic rock by the sea. Access is often free, but many are nicely equipped. Adults may head into the ocean to try paddleboarding, sea kayaking, and – the local favourite, of course – surfing!

• Explore Funchal, the island’s largest city. Wander the charming alleys of the Zona Velha, the historic centre, where some buildings are five centuries old. Soak up the sights, scents, and colours of the Lavradores market stalls. Stroll through the capital’s vast, lush gardens, starting with the most exotic of them all: Monte Palace Tropical Garden.
• Take to the skies on the Funchal cable car, one of the city’s top attractions, to enjoy sweeping views of the capital and its coastline.
• Step aboard a famous vessel, the Santa Maria: the caravel made famous by Christopher Columbus (not the original, but a faithful replica!). Hoist the sails and discover another world off Madeira’s coast where you might spot whales and dolphins.
• Scale the Pico Ruivo, the island’s highest peak at over 1,800 metres. On clear days, the views are simply breathtaking. But plan your climb carefully: if you’re not an experienced hiker, go with a guide. The ascent is straightforward, but the weather can change fast.
• Hike along the levadas, the island’s iconic irrigation channels that form a network stretching over 2,000 kilometres. Picnic by the waterfalls at Levada das 25 Fontes; or follow the PR9 trail along Levada do Caldeirão Verde, passing through rock tunnels on your way to the spectacular Caldeirão Verde (“Green Cauldron”) waterfall.
• Relax by the water on the pebbles of Praia Formosa, Madeira’s largest beach, or on the black sands of Praia do Porto do Seixal. Seek out the island’s sunniest cove at Ponta do Sol, or discover the stunning natural pools of Porto Moniz, unrivalled in their beauty.
• Hop on a boat for a day trip to Porto Santo, famed for its golden sands. This tiny island features one of the most fantastic beaches in Europe, Praia do Porto Santo. Nine kilometres of soft sand framed by volcanic cliffs and crystal-clear waters.
• Pay tribute to Madeira’s pride and joy, Cristiano Ronaldo. For over a decade, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has had a museum in his honour in Funchal, the CR7 Museum, showcasing some hundred trophies he has won over his stellar career.
• Sample Madeira’s wines at the island’s most renowned cellars and estates: Blandy's, H.M. Borges, Henriques & Henriques, Barbeitos… Some vintages are incredibly old!
• Settle on a sun-drenched terrace and sip a poncha, the island’s signature cocktail (consume in moderation). It is zesty mix of honey, lemon, and local aguardente de cana, a rum-like spirit made from the island’s sugarcane.