Madeira island is the result of volcanic eruptions that took place 35 millions years ago, offshore Morocco. It is today a paradise of greeny mountains, steep coasts, and a multitude of flowers and plants : undeniably a place for nature and hiking lovers.

History
The Portuguese navigators Tristão Vaz Teixeira, Bartolomeu Perestrelo and João Gonçalves Zarco officially discovered the islands of Madeira and Porto Santo in 1419. In reality, these navigators first discovered the island of Porto Santo (1418) following a storm at sea during which the vessel was deviated from its route along the coast of Africa due to bad weather; after many days adrift at sea, they sighted a small island which they called “Porto Seguro” (safe port), i.e. Porto Santo, as it saved Zarco’s crew from a fateful destiny. One year after the discovery of Porto Santo, they arrived at the island of Madeira, in 1419.
The latter navigator is thought to have named it when nicknaming it the island of “Madeira” (wood) due to its abundance of this raw material. Find out more …

Location and Climate
Madeira island is 310 miles from the African coast and 620 miles from the European continent, which is the equivalent of a 1 hour 30 minutes flight from Lisbon. The island of Madeira has a surface area of 459 square miles (741 km2), (35 miles long and 13 miles wide).
These islands, because of their privileged geographical position and mountainous relief, have a surprisingly mild climate.
Very mild average temperatures, 25ºC in the summer and 17ºC in the winter, and a moderate level of humidity, confer upon these islands exceptional subtropical features. Find out more …

Gardens
Explore the wide variety of lovingly tended gardens and parks that fill the air with unimaginable shades and perfumes. Find out more …






Museums
Besides the many attractions, Madeira Island also has a great number of remarkable cultural and historical museums. Interactive exhibits for both kids and adults and great collections of ancient and modern art can be enjoyed here. Find out more …




Things to do in Madeira - Activities
For your enjoyment and a memorable stay, Madeira Island offers a variety of great activities throughout the year, such as Island tours, levada walks, bird watching, fishing, boat trips, paragliding, surfing etc… a great way to start an exciting vacation while you enjoy nature, exercise or just relax.
Land Activities -- Activities on air -- Activities on the Sea



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