Last month I hopped on a flight to Madeira, Portugal’s distant island hovering off the coast of Africa. I met up with some of my favorite American grammers — Augusta Leigh Photo, Blonde Atlas and Passport to Friday— for a few days of fun in the sun, blogger style! You know, snapping a million photos along the way to well, everywhere.
After a frightful landing in Funchal (note to self : do not google airports before takeoff — Funchal is known as one of the world’s most dangerous runways!), we met up at the gorgeous Belmond Reid’s Palace and a little sangria by the pool took the edge off a bit!
Settled in Funchal, the hotel is one of the oldest on the island with its’ address on the cliffs overlooking the Atlantic for over 100 years. The luxe island hideaway is a peaceful retreat with gorgeous, panoramic views. If you’re up for more adventures and exploring, there’s a long list of activities at the resort and around the island for you!
TOP TEN IN MADEIRA
- Island boat rides with On Tales…sunset, snorkeling, swimming, they do it all! We rode alongside a school of dolphins for a seriously once in a lifetime experience! This also offered incredible views of the island.
- Pico do Arieiro : After a quick drive through the clouds, YES, that’s right, you’ll drive through an absolute white out of clouds. But after they part, it is jaw dropping scenic valley views. You can relax and watch the billowing clouds roll through or head for a hike around the peak.
- Breakfast in bed at Reid’s Palace : if you’re staying here (and you must!), definitely visit the amazing breakfast buffet — there is anything and everything! But save one morning to have a relaxing breakfast in bed with your balcony open to soak up the views.
- Visit the Historical Fortress of São Tiago and dine at Restaurante do Forte : This area is so beautiful and charming! The restaurant is first off, delicious, but also located in this 17th century fort. They offer a classic car pickup — which even if you don’t opt for this, they make great photos. There is also frequently live music offered for guests!
- Santana : This tiny village is known for its’ thatched roof houses! Talk about colorful charm. We slammed on the brakes to snap this gem…
- Wine tasting at Paixão do Vinho. This wine shop in Funchal offers a full tasting on Madeira wines with entertaining stories to boot! The owner is so friendly and welcoming and will make this experience for you!
- Road Trip the Island : we partnered with Visit Madeira to take a road trip around the island and catch all the incredible sights and scenery. The island has such a variety of terrains — from high mountainous peaks to sandy beaches to tropical forests — make sure you save time for a trip around the island!
- Sun bathing at Reid’s Palace : I mentioned the incredible cliffside views of the Atlantic but Reid’s Palace also has two gorgeous pools with these breathtaking views as well as an ocean pool. It is exactly what I needed after a lack of vitamin D in the good ol UK.
- Drink Poncha in the old town of Funchal : Poncha is the traditional alcoholic drink of the island. It is made with aguardente de cana (distilled alcohol made from sugar cane juice), honey, sugar, lemon rind and usually a fruit juice — we tried passionfruit poncha, and it was heavenly! We sat outside in the Old Town sipping Poncha listening to live music!
- Hiking : Madeira is full of dramatic cliffs, coastal trails and mountain paths…and these make the most beautiful hiking trails! Madeira is also known for its complex irrigation system which has paths following the channels which flow around the hills of the island. These take you right to the most hidden and magnificent spots on the island.
If you’re looking for a photographer while traveling (or even if your own city) to get some gorgeous styled shots like these, try Snap Squad.
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