Regional Information
MADEIRA
AT A GLANCE
Currency: Euro (€)
Population: 250,000
Capital: Funchal
Language: Portuguese, with English widely spoken
Local Time: Same as Irish and UK time
Voltage: 220V – continental adaptors purchased in Ireland or UK can be used
Flight Duration: Approx. 3 hours and 15 minutes
Airport: Madeira Airport, Funchal (FNC)
Climate: Subtropical climate with warm summers and extremely mild winters
OVERVIEW
Most people have heard of the Portuguese island of Madeira, but not many know exactly where it is. Located more than 966km (600 miles) southwest of Lisbon, and off the west coast of Morocco, it is a mere speck in the vast Atlantic Ocean. Madeira, along with its sister island of Porto Santo, is actually the summit of an undersea mountain, rearing up with craggy cliffs from the warm Gulf Stream waters in one of the deepest parts of the Atlantic. It features one of the world's highest ocean cliffs, soaring 589m (1,933ft) above the sea.
Madeira has an Eden-like beauty, with its rich volcanic soil having turned it into a botanical wonderland. The fragrant island blooms with colourful masses of orchids, bougainvillea, frangipani, wisteria and geraniums. Fruit and herbs grow in profusion on the hillsides and in ravines, and the mountain slopes are terraced with orchards and vineyards. The tiny island has even been termed a 'floating garden'.
HIGHLIGHTS
Volcanism Centre – Located in Sao Vicente, this centre provides audiovisual demonstrations of volcanic eruptions and the birth of the island. Here you can also visit Sao Vicente’s famous volcanic caves and stroll through the beautiful gardens that feature Madeira’s widespread flora.
Madeira Botanical Gardens – Located in Funchal, the Botanical Gardens provides spectacular panoramic views over the mountainous backdrop, the city below and its bay with the deep blue waters of the Atlantic. Within the 80,000 square metres of gardens, visitors will encounter a truly fascinating collection of more than 2,500 plant species. The Botanical Gardens also offers a cable car ride that crosses the breathtaking Joao Gomes Stream Valley and travels high above the city of Funchal to the historical village of Monte.
Markets – Regional markets sell all kinds of agricultural products and local food specialties (such as ‘bolo de caco’ bread, grilled chicken and wheat soup) to be consumed there or to take away. Usually taking place during the weekends, you will find these typical markets throughout the island. The 'Mercado dos Lavradores' market in Funchal’s Old Town is a favourite among visiting tourists.
GETTING AROUND
The cheapest, albeit slowest, way to get around Madeira is by bus. A typical bus fare in Funchal is €1.15 to €2.10. Most buses depart from the large park at the eastern part of the Funchal waterfront bordering Avenida do Mar. The going taxi rate is about €90 per day, but three or four passengers can divide the cost. In Funchal, you'll usually find a line of taxis across from the tourist office along Avenida Arriaga.
HEALTH/SECURITY
Generally, tourists should take the precautions they would in any major city. Avoid carrying large sums of cash or leaving belongings unattended. Tap water is safe to drink and is of good quality.
PASSPORT/VISA
Portugal is a member of the EU; therefore no visa is required for Irish or UK citizens.
USEFUL CONTACTS
Irish Embassy:
Rua da Imprensa a Estrela 1-4
1200-684 Lisbon, Portugal
Tel: 351 21 392 9440, Fax: 351 21 397 7363
Email: Lisbonembassy@dfa.ie
www.embassyofireland.pt
British Consulate:
Rua da Alfândega 10, 3C
9000-059 Funchal,
Madeira
Tel: 351 29 121 2860, Fax: 351 29 121 2869
Email: BritCon.Funchal@NetMadeira.com
www.ukinportugal.fco.gov.uk
Local Emergency Services: General emergency 112
Calling Madeira from Ireland/UK: 00 + 351 + area code (Funchal 29) + the number
Calling Ireland from Madeira: 00 + 353 + area code + the number
Calling the UK from Madeira: 00 + 44 + area code + the number
Local Tourist Office:
Tourist Office of Funchal
Avenida Arriaga nº16
9004-519 Funchal
Tel: 351 29 121 1902
USEFUL WEBSITES
www.madeira-web.com
www.visitportugal.com