Activities And Attractions Around Hotels In Madeira

By Author: Bonny Kominek
Total Articles: 230
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Madeira is the name of both an archipelago and the principal island in this Atlantic cluster. This Portuguese territory is located well into the Atlantic Ocean, making it the furthest flung portion of the European Union. Famous for the eponymous wine, Madeira is a popular tourist destination that offers plenty to see and do.

Also known as "Ilha Jardim" (Garden Island), Madeira enjoys mild temperatures all year round thanks to a sub tropical climate. Madeira is 620 miles from the coast of Europe, and 310 miles from the coast of Africa. Funchal is the capital of Madeira.

Funchal is the birthplace of the now famous Portuguese footballer Christiano Ronaldo. Nestled in a bay that is perhaps best described as a natural amphitheatre, surrounded by a dramatic backdrop of mountains, the approach by sea to Funchal is regarded as one of the most picturesque in the world. Unsurprisingly, Funchal is a popular cruise ship destination.

Elsewhere on the island, those dramatic mountains offer ample opportunity for hiking. There are several different operators offering eco tourism style walks and tours of the island, ...
... and this is one of the most popular tourist activities on Madeira.

The Ponta de Sao Lourenco nature reserve on the east of the island is of particular note for those keen on such trekking. There are volcanic rock formations to be discovered along with the native flora and fauna, and in addition some great views of the Atlantic coastline.

Football and sport in general is popular on Madeira. Many tourists are attracted by the top class golf courses on offer. For those that prefer a little more adrenalin in a sporting pastime, Kart racing is also on offer in Madeira.

The surfing opportunities provided by the Atlantic swell are world class, as evidenced by the fact that the World Surfing Championships were held in Madeira in 2001. There are several popular breaks, and for those that wish to conduct further research these include Ponta Pequena, Paul do Mar and Jardim do Mar.

The Atlantic also offers some excellent sea fishing for those staying in hotels in Madeira. Those that prefer to enjoy sea life without catching and eating it can take indulge in the popular pastime of Dolphin and Whale spotting, with boats departing from across the island. Bonny Kominek is a keen amateur travel writer and Madeira enthusiast. Bonny Kominek recommends looking at what Octopus Travel has to offer when researching the options for Madeira hotels.