Capelinha do Calhau The ‘Capelinha do Calhau’ in Sao Vicente marks the entrance of the village of Sao Vicente. The villagers built this remarkable and tiny chapel, dedicated to the holy Vincent, in 1692. The baroque facade is carved in a solitary basalt rock. It stands tall in the river mound of the river …
Booking a holiday to Madeira In January, most of us plan our holidays for the coming year. Holidays are a privileged time with your loved family away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Our day to day balancing act of working, parenting and dealing with other obligations does take a toll on most …
Plantar o Futuro Welcome to the second edition of the “Plant the Future” Project – Plantar o Futuro. The program aims to be an educational and nature recovery project. Furthermore, it intends to raise awareness of the necessity to preserve the current forests and replant trees and shrubs. This initiative started last school year, hence …
Saudade Portugal, Saudade is one of those words for which there is no literal translation. However, it seems that Portuguese are born with an innate understanding of its meaning. Saudade means a mixture of melancholic longing or yearning coupled with a sense of loneliness and incompleteness. That is a mouthful, right? Certainly, it is one …
The seafood cataplana is a traditional Portuguese dish which is served on Madeira. The dish is made in a cataplana, which is a common cooking utensil in Portugal. If you do not have a cataplana, use a pan and saucepan lid instead. Seafood Cataplana Ingredients (4 servings): 8 prawns (or 4 langoustines) 4 slices of …
Casino da Madeira – The Madeira Casino The Casino da Madeira truly is an entertainment hub on the island. It provides for a fun night for those who still have some energy left in them after a long day exploring Madeira. Whether you enjoy gambling or want to go dancing, there is something for everyone. …
Unlike what some would believe, the wintertime remains an ideal moment to visit the archipelago. It is the perfect moment to witness Madeira at Christmas. When it comes to Christmas, Madeira goes all out! During the festive season, Madeira island is completely covered in lights, which conveys for a truly magical atmosphere. Video of Funchal …
Funchal Cathedral The Funchal Cathedral located in Sé, also known as Cathedral of our Lady of the Assumption, is one of Madeira’s main landmarks. It is a must-see during your visit of the capital. Since 1910, it is classified as a National Monument. History Originally, the religious building was the Church of Santa Maria, which …
Funchal Mosaic Pavements There are countless things to see and do in Funchal. In fact, something worth paying attention to might be right under your feet – Calçada Madeirense. Madeira’s mosaic pavements, found all over the city, adds a certain “je ne sais quoi” to the charming city. All the various mosaic pavements create a …
History: a peaceful island born of violence About 20 million years ago, Madeira burst from the Atlantic in giant gushes of volcanic flames. After the lava cooled, erosion shaped the island. The highest point is on the east-west backbone, and is called Pico Ruivo or Purple Peak. Discovery of Madeira Two captains, Joao Gonçalves Zarco …
Funchal Christmas and New Year’s Celebrations December is a very special month on Madeira. It brings along the much sought-after Christmas season, atmosphere and delights. Even if Madeira is never cold and the island does feel festive! The Christmas Preparations The city of Funchal starts hanging the extensive Christmas decorations and lights during the month …
