Madeira, the floating garden, serenely beautiful...

A deliciously warm, early summer climate, timeless civility and high standards, all set on a stage of amazing beauty, help make Madeira an attractive resort for all generations. 
Set in the Atlantic three hours from the UK its waters are nicely warmed by the Gulf Stream current and the air temperature varies from 18oC to 24oC.
In the fertile and volcanic interior, ridges of jagged peaks rise to 2,000m, while deep ravines plunge down to unspoilt fishing villages fringed by awesome coastal precipices. Cabo Girao, near Funchal, is home to the second highest cliffs in the world. Magnificent churches and breathtaking waterfalls vie for pride of place in picture postcard settings. Richly coloured flowers are everywhere - jacaranda, bougainvillea, hibiscus and orchids all proliferate in the perennially warm climate, alongside sugar and banana plantations and terraced rows of sun-ripened vines which produce the famous rich Madeira wine. Two thirds of the island is designated as a National Park and there are three botanical gardens in Funchal alone. There is forest and vegetation which dates back millions of years. No wonder the island is called the “Floating Garden”.
Visit the inland villages and you will encounter charming and hospitable people. At Camacha locals are usually busy on embroidery and wickerwork outside their cottages; at Monte they will help you on exhilarating toboggan rides down flower-lined country roads.
A drive around the island is both challenging and rewarding with spectacular winding coast roads typified by the north coast road to Porto Miniz, with the area around Santana especially stunning.
The neighbouring island of Porto Santo offers a relaxing alternative with a magnificent 8km sandy beach.