Funchal - The Capital of Madeira

Funchal, the capital of Madeira, was named after the Portuguese word "funcho" which, in English, is the name of the herb fennel. It is home to some 130,000 inhabitants. The city's origins date back to the 15th century and Madeira's discoverer, Zarco. Today, those origins are not lost and the city's architecture and layout owes a debt to it's history. However, time flows relentlessly, and Funchal is not immune to it's passing. Constant development and new projects ensure that the capital is truely a 21st century destination.

Funchal at Christmas

The Christmas lights in Funchal are usually switched on towards the end of November. However, the celebrations begin in earnest during the second week of December and stretch through to Twelfth Night. Free street events involve local school children, college students, traditional street traders and a collection of more seasoned performers. There is also a variety of professional concerts and exhibitions. And, at the stroke of midnight on New Year's Eve, perhaps the best fireworks display in Europe erupts over the crowded streets of the capital.

Madeira Coastline

Madeira's coastline is often rugged and steep. The south tends to have lighter sea breezes and is generally more accessible. The north coastline is less developed and tends towards more dramatic scenery. The eastern spur comprises of untamed cliffs and rocky islets. The west coastline has some picturesque fishing villages. The best location for bird watching is Porto Moniz, followed by Ponta da Cruz. Those interested in diving should head for Funchal or Caniço de Baixo where many diving schools reside. Whale and dolphin spotting along with deep sea fishing expeditions are also offered by a number of operators.

Madeira Flowers

Madeira is renown for the uniqueness of its flora and fauna. Many indigenous plants exist. For example, the Wild Rose (Rosa mandonii) is a rare endemic species and is found high up amid the humid areas of the Island. The world's largest Laurissilva forest can be found in the Natural Park of Madeira. Funchal, referred to as the Concrete Garden by the locals, is awash with flowers for most of the year and many private residences take pride in providing a floral display. Animal life is similarly unique, Madeira boasting many endemic bird species. However the only places the tourist will see a snake on Madeira is in a zoo.

Scenic Madeira

Madeira is an island of contrasts. The rugged coastline boasts the second highest sea cliff in Europe at Cabo Girao, towering 580 metres above the Atlantic. Inland, Curral das Freiras, or Nun's Valley, hides amid the mountainous volcanic peaks. This historical refuge was largely cut off from the remainder of Madeira until 1959. Inland lies Paul da Serra, a treeless plateau some 20 sq km in area. Whilst along the northern coast, a narrow roadway runs between Porto do Moniz and Sao Vicente. Here you can enjoy spectacular sea views and stop en route at several waterfalls that come cascading down by the roadside.