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E X P E R I E N C E S I N M A D E I R A
WITHIN OUR WALLS
3MADEIRABELMOND REID ’S PALACE
WELCOME TO MADEIRA
Step into a world of timeless elegance at Belmond Reid’s Palace, a breathtaking island retreat overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Stroll in our 10 acres of lush gardens, relax at our Spa and indulge in superb, imaginative cuisine. Choose from a wealth of experiences that bring Madeira’s beauty to life. Head up above the clouds to witness the mountains at sunrise; plunge down beneath the cliffs to discover an organic Eden. Set off on classic car tours and exhilarating SUV drives or trek along the famous levadas. Explore iconic wineries, go whale watching and party like never before at Carnival. Prepare to be captivated by the island of eternal spring.
C O N T E N T S
WITHIN OUR WALLS
EXCLUSIVELY FOR YOU
EXPLORE THE ISLAND
TAKE TO THE WATER
CULTURAL TREASURES OF MADEIRA
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CATEGORIES
AC T I V E
W E L L N E S S
C H I L D F R I E N D LY
C U LT U R E
F O O D A N D W I N E
N AT U R E
S H O P P I N G
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Within our walls
7MADEIRABELMOND REID ’S PALACE
WITHIN OUR WALLS
Available Tuesday and Friday at 9.00.Lessons last 50 mins. Yoga mats and towels are provided. Book with Concierge or Guest Relations team.
PILATES Develop the balance of your muscle structure to obtain body symmetry and harmony, as well as increasing your physical and mental capacities. During this complimentary lesson, an experienced pilates teacher will take you through poses that stretch, flex and strengthen your body.
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WITHIN OUR WALLS
Available from 15:30 every Wednesday at the Main Entrance. This complimentary experience lasts 45 mins. Please book your place with our Concierge or Guest Relations team.
Every Thursday at 18:00 (except on bank holidays). This complimentary experience lasts 40 mins and takes place in Salon 28 on the 5th floor. Max 8 people can participate so advance booking is essential.
GUIDED TOUR OF OUR GARDENS Our horticultural expert will be delighted to guide you through our wonderful gardens, where you can admire tree specimens from all over the world – Brazil, China, North and South America, Australia, Africa, Korea and Japan – as well as flowering shrubs such as hibiscus, bougainvillea, mimosa, wisteria and rhododendron.
INTRODUCTION TO MADEIRA WINE Join us for an evening hosted by the Madeira Wine Company, who will give a fascinating talk on the island’s wine tradition, followed by a tasting of some of their delicious wines accompanied by cheese and cake from the hotel. At the end you’ll also receive a voucher that can be used for purchases at Blandy’s Wine Lodge.
1 1MADEIRABELMOND REID ’S PALACE
WITHIN OUR WALLS
The activity lasts 2 hours 30 mins and starts at a time to suit you. Please book at least 2 days in advance with our Guest Relations team.
BREAKFAST WORK-OUT FOR EARLY BIRDS Work-out as you watch the sunrise in the lush surroundings of our gardens. Our personal trainer will put you through your paces, after which you’re rewarded with a delicious, healthy breakfast in a magical location.
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Exclusively for you
15MADEIRABELMOND REID ’S PALACE
EXCLUSIVELY FOR YOU
VOYAGE TO THE DESERTASSet sail on a thrilling family adventure to the Desertas Islands, three rocky slivers located southeast of Madeira. Sometimes referred to as the Galapagos of Europe, they are home to a colony of monk seals, real-life chums of our hotel mascot, Zarco.
On this excursion you’ll sail through the Atlantic Ocean on a beautiful Princess V50 yacht, enjoying champagne and luscious fruit served by a private butler. On reaching the islands, take a dip in the crystalline water before enjoying lunch on board. Then alight to explore Deserta Grande with an expert guide. If you’re in luck, you’ll see the monk seals – though they can be elusive. After a fascinating hour, set sail homewards, perhaps spotting dolphins or pilot whales along the way.
Full-day excursion departing from Quinta do Lorde (40-min drive from the hotel, 45-min boat ride to Desertas). Min 2 people. Please book at least 2 days in advance with our Guest Relations team.
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EXCLUSIVELY FOR YOU
WILD PENINSULAStride out along the breathtaking São Lourenço Peninsula, a rugged basalt landscape off Madeira’s south-eastern coast. You’ll begin the adventure in Caniçal, walking along the undulating trail through scenery devoid of vegetation, a stark contrast to the island’s Laurisilva forest and lush levadas. As you pass slivers of black-sand beaches and curious rock formations, discern other islands in the archipelago and note how huge waves batter the west flank of the peninsula while calmer waters lap the other side. By the path’s end, head down to the beach and take a dip in the clear sea.
Afterwards, we’ll drive you to the nearby Ponta do Rosto viewpoint to enjoy an energy-replenishing spread of detox juices, granola bars, healthy wraps and fruits as you soak up the invigorating vistas.
The experience lasts around 5-6 hours and includes 3.5 hours of hiking. The drive from the hotel takes around 40 mins. Min 2 people. Please book at least 2 days in advance with our Guest Relations team.
19MADEIRABELMOND REID ’S PALACE
EXCLUSIVELY FOR YOU
THE MIRACLE OF FAJÃ DOS PADRESNamed after the Jesuit priests who first cultivated the spit of land, Fajã dos Padres is a lush paradise nestled on Madeira’s south coast. Accessible only by cable car or sea, it’s now owned by the Vilhena de Mendonça family, proud producers of plump organic vegetables, juicy fruits and restored Malvasia vines.
The land is so fertile that tomatoes grow like weeds, and figs, avocados, mangoes and passionfruit can be seen in abundance. The vineyards produce famous malmsey wine; locals claim the saltiness of the air actually makes the grapes sweeter.
Enjoy an exclusive guided tour of the organic farm, a luscious wine tasting in the cellar and lunch in the restaurant, where you can savour Madeiran dishes featuring vegetables from the farm and fish from the ocean right before you.
Half-day excursion for min 2 people. Please book at least 2 days in advance with our Guest Relations team.
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EXCLUSIVELY FOR YOU
SUNRISE ABOVE THE CLOUDSStep aboard a 4x4 jeep and let our driver take you to Pico do Arieiro. Up there, 1818m above sea level, nature’s most breathtaking spectacle awaits: the sunrise. Above the clouds, watch rapt as shades of vermilion, gold and purple appear, revealing the stunning mountainscape in all its glory as the sun comes up.
After this magical experience, travel back down the mountain where, now it’s daylight, you’ll notice the landscape clad in verdant vegetation, dewy moss and beautiful flowers. Stop in a picturesque setting, surrounded by birdsong, to enjoy a lavish breakfast served by a private butler. Take your glass of champagne and raise a toast to life. The exhilarating adventure continues off-road into Madeira’s hidden Royal Roads (Caminhos Reais), showing you more of the island’s secret natural wonders.
Half-day excursion for min 2 people. Please book at least 2 days in advance with our Guest Relations team.
23MADEIRABELMOND REID ’S PALACE
EXCLUSIVELY FOR YOU
A CLASSIC SUNSET AT PONTA DO SOLEmbark on a charming, chauffeur-driven journey in a 1970s classic car along the mountain roads to Ponta do Sol. Named after the sun, this picturesque village is one of the best places on the island to watch the mesmerising sunset. Enhance this perfect moment by sipping a cocktail and savouring exquisite canapés as the sun goes down.
UNIQUE NATURE EXPERIENCESet off on an exhilarating adventure with an amazing Jeep tour. Go off-road on an excursion that includes a visit to Ribeira Primeira Park, trout fishing, a levada walk, lunch and touring the central and eastern parts of the island.
You begin by setting off into the highlands, pausing at the Largo Miranda viewpoint in Choupana. Continue up the Poiso trail, then down to Santo da Serra. In Ribeira Primeira Park, stop for a welcome drink and an eco-tour giving insight into this sustainable project in the heart of the forest. Fish for trout, if you wish, and learn about the crucial differences between freshly-caught and supermarket-bought fish. After lunch, follow the Ribeira de Machico and continue to the breathtaking Ponta de São Lourenço, before returning to Funchal.
Please book at least 2 days in advance and ask our Guest Relations team for further details.
Your excursion is led by a driver. Depart at 09:30, return at 16:30. Please book at least 2 days in advance with our Guest Relations team. Not available Monday and Tuesday.
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Explore the Island
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EXPLORE THE ISLAND
DISCOVER THE ISLAND
Venture EastChoose to explore the east of the island, on a magnificent guided excursion. Highlights could include Saint Lawrence Point, at the easternmost tip, where cliffs rise 180 metres above the Atlantic; Ribeiro Frio, where you can see the rare, endemic Laurissilva forest and walk along one of the island’s oldest levadas, and Santana, a village known for its triangular shaped thatched houses.
Venture WestIf you decide to head west, follow the sunny southern coast to reach Cabo Girão, the highest cliff in Europe and Paúl da Serra, a soaring plateau with a landscape similar to Scotland. Continue northwards to spot the natural saltwater swimming pools at Porto Moniz.
FUNCHAL BY TUKXI Discover a fun, innovative and eco-friendly way to explore Madeira’s capital city. Buzz through the narrow, maze-like cobbled streets of Funchal’s old town in an iconic, three-wheeled Ape Calessino - commonly referred to as a Tukxi on the island. Choose from the following experiences: Tour of Funchal, Romantic Monte or Churchill’s Itinerary.
Half- or full-day tours available. Ask our Concierge or Guest Relations team for details. Please book at least 2 days in advance.
Ask our concierge or Guest Relations team for details. Please book one day in advance.
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CABLE CAR UP TO MONTE Take a cable car up to Monte from Funchal to experience a magical part of the island. Plunge into Monte Palace Tropical Garden, famed for its collection of cycads among 100,000 plant species, visit the 18th-century Monte Church, a pilgrimage site, or enjoy a thrilling toboggan ride. Hovering over the city in the cable car, you have a bird’s-eye view of Funchal’s amphitheatre and bay, a vision of blues, greens and oranges.
The steep, 3,200-metre-long journey climbs to a height of 560 metres and takes 15 to 25 minutes.
TOBOGGAN RIDES Don’t miss this Madeira highlight, a traditional wicker-sled ride down the narrow streets to Funchal. Originally a speedy means of transport to the centre for people living in Monte, the toboggan sledges were introduced in the mid-19th century and are still in use today. The two-seater sleds glide on wooden runners, expertly pushed and steered by two men in traditional white cotton dress and straw hats, who use their rubber-soled boots as brakes.
The 2km downhill run to Funchal takes about 10 minutes and can reach speeds of 48km per hour, so it’s not for the faint-hearted.
Open daily, from 09:00 to 17:45.
Available Monday to Saturday, 09:00 to 17:45; Sundays 09:00-13:00.
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CLASSIC CAR DRIVE If you’re looking for a driving experience with heritage appeal, look no further than this classic car ride through awe-inspiring scenery. A driver will take you to the charming fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, which so inspired Sir Winston Churchill, or head east to the Neves Viewpoint and continue to Caniço for enchanting views of the ocean.
JEEP TOURS Jump aboard a 4x4 vehicle and explore the picturesque trails through Madeira’s stunning mountains. The tours range from mild to wild, but all are scenic and exciting. Choose between two different private journeys, one heading eastwards, the other into the west.
SUV TOURS Plunge into the island’s amazing landscapes on a private SUV tour, enjoying stops where you’ll learn about aspects of Madeira’s nature and culture, all from the comfort of the passenger seat. This is a relaxed and comfortable experience that provides you with the ideal way to explore the great outdoors.
Max 4 people. Guests will meet their driver at Reception before departure. Guests can book a private excursion. Please ask our Concierge or Guest Relations team for details and book at least one day in advance.
Half-day tour. Guests can book a private excursion. Please ask our Concierge or Guest Relations team for details and book at least one day in advance.
Max 4 people. Half- or full-day tours available. Guests can book a private excursion. Ask our Concierge or Guest Relations team for details and book at least one day in advance.
33MADEIRABELMOND REID ’S PALACE
EXPLORE THE ISLAND
PALHEIRO GARDEN AND THE BOTANICAL GARDEN Let us arrange a private tour of the Quinta do Palheiro estate, where the Count of Carvalhal began planting shrubs and trees in the early 19th century. Then head to the Madeira Botanical Garden, a beautiful park built by the Reid family as part of their summer home. Boasting a wondrous collection of plants from all over the world, it’s paradise for nature lovers.
MONTE PALACE GARDENS Occupying over 70,000 square metres, these tropical gardens are home to a huge exotic plant collection. Admire a wealth of azaleas, heathers, exceptional trees and ferns. Spot swans and ducks in the central lake, as well as peacocks and chickens walking freely among visitors.
MADEIRA BOTANICAL GARDEN Surrounded by stunning mountains in the north and the ocean in the south, this enchanting site opened as a botanical garden in 1960. One of its main purposes was the conservation of indigenous Madeiran plants, some of which are very rare and extinct in the wild. It boasts harmonious forms, contrasting colours and more than 200 exotic plants. Throughout the garden, all plants are identified with their scientific names, common names and origins.
Guide included. The tour starts at 10:00 and ends at 13:00. Please book with our Concierge or Guest Relations team at least 2 days in advance.
Open daily, 09:30-18:00.
Open daily, 09.00-18:00.
MADEIRA GARDENS Immerse yourself in the island’s flourishing green spaces, located in the hillsides and offering stunning views over Funchal Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.
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HIKING IN MADEIRA With dramatic cliffs, coastal trails and mountain paths, Madeira is known as a hiker’s paradise. More than 3,000km of irrigation channels guide you through the most beautiful and unspoilt landscapes of the Island. Wind alongside these narrow levadas to find hidden lookout points, inaccessible by car.
Choose your favourite route with the expert advice of our Guest Relations team or Concierge, taking into account your fitness, ability and safety.
Serra D’Água ValleyHalf-day excursion, easy walk, 2.5 hours, 5km
One of the most beautiful places on the island, where you can see the south coast, Encumeada, Ribeira Brava and Campanário.
Rabaçal, Risco, 25 FontesFull-day excursion, moderate walk, 4 hours, 11km
Descending from the plateau of Paúl da Serra, arrive at the Rabaçal and walk to the Risco waterfall. Descend to the levada of 25 Fontes and walk to the bottom of a towering cliff where two dozen natural springs cascade into a lake.
Paradise ValleyHalf-day excursion, easy walk, 2.5 hours, 5.5km
A magnificent walk along the 100-year-old levada of Serra do Faial, starting in Vale do Paraíso and finishing in Rochão. Admire cultivated terraces, spectacular gardens and beautiful views over the village of Camacha.
Pico do Areiro, Pico Ruivo, Achada do TeixeiraFull-day excursion, difficult walk, 5 hours, 13km
See the island’s beauty in all its glory – stunning rock formations, luxuriant vegetation, myriad colours, breathtaking views. Near Pico Ruivo, Madeira’s highest point, walk through the oldest heather forest in existence.
Ribeiro Frio, PortelaFull-day excursion, moderate walk, 4.5 hours, 10km
Marvel at the display of light and shade filtering through laurel trees and heather on one of the most beautiful levadas in Madeira. Note the trout darting for cover as you approach.
Maroços, Mimosa ValleyHalf-day excursion, easy walk, 2.5 hours, 6km
Deep down in Machico’s Valley, known as the Mimosa Valley, walk along the scenic maintenance path of Levada dos Maroços.
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Referta, CastelejoHalf-day excursion, easy walk, 2 hours, 5.5km
Enjoy an easy walk along ancient footpaths, passing charming villages on the north coast.
Queimadas, Caldeirão Verde, SantanaFull-day excursion, moderate walk, 4.5 hours, 13km
Absorb spectacular views of the villages far below before passing through some short tunnels and arriving at Caldeirão Verde, a majestic waterfall.
Fanal, AssobiadoresFull-day excursion, moderate walk, 4.5 hours, 11.5km
Starting at Paúl da Serra and finishing in Fanal, this breathtaking walk is one of the few places where you can see Laurissilva vegetation at its finest.
Experienced guide available.Guests can book a private excursion. Please book at least 1 day in advance. Ask our Concierge or Guest Relations team for full details.
HIKING IN MADEIRA
39MADEIRABELMOND REID ’S PALACE
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ONE-DAY MADEIRA WINE TOUR Explore the lush and exotic winegrowing regions of Madeira. Discover the legendary sweet, fortified wine as well as a variety of new styles produced in small terraced plots and aged in timeless cellars.
Tour the vineyards and cellars where famous Madeira Wine is produced, and visit wineries to taste some of the younger whites, rosés and reds. Learn about Madeira’s unique terroir and extraordinary production techniques, honed over 500 years as you travel the island, from south coast to north, visiting places such as Câmara de Lobos, São Vicente, Seixal and Porto Moniz.
Guests can book a private excursion. Please book at least 2 days in advance. Ask our Concierge or Guest Relations team for details.
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EXPLORE THE ISLAND
GOLF COURSES IN MADEIRA Madeira is a year-round golf destination par excellence. Tee off on Palheiro Golf’s 18-hole, par 72 Championship course, which meanders through maritime pine and botanical woodland, offering dramatic mountain and ocean vistas all the way. Or enjoy a game on Santo da Serra Golf Club’s 27-hole Championship course overlooking the bay of Machico, where the Portuguese explorers first landed. Dating from 1937, the course was redesigned in 1991 by famous golf architect Robert Trent Jones Sr. The 3rd and 4th signature holes are unforgettable to any golfer who plays them.
Palheiro Golf can be reached in 20 minutes by car, and is open Wednesday to Sunday from 9.00 to 13.00.Santo da Serra Golf Club can be reached in 30 minutes by car, and is open daily from 9.00 to 17.00.
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Take to the water
45MADEIRABELMOND REID ’S PALACE
TAKE TO THE WATER
WHALE AND DOLPHIN WATCHING Board an island boat to enjoy a relaxed ocean adventure seeking dolphins, turtles and, if you’re lucky, whales.
EVENING SAILING Watch the magical sunset from the sea on a romantic sailing trip to the beautiful bay of Câmara de Lobos.
BEAUTIFUL BAYS Embark on a nature lover’s cruise to beautiful Machico Bay, before heading to Baía d’Abra, a wonderful wild and unspoilt cove where you can swim, dive and relax. A delicious hot meal will be served on board.
PRIVATE SAILING BOATS Hire a private boat for a half- or full-day excursion and cruise the waters in blissful seclusion. Choose your own route to explore the island’s hidden treasures.
Trips last 2.5 hours and depart from Funchal Marina. Please book at least 2 days in advance.
Available Wednesdays and Fridays, 18:30-20:00 or from 16:45 during winter time. Depart from Funchal Marina. Please book at least 1 day in advance.
Available Fridays, 10:00-14:00. Depart from Funchal Marina. Hot meal included. Please book at least 2 days in advance.
3 boat types available –please ask our Concierge or Guest Relations team for details.
47MADEIRABELMOND REID ’S PALACE
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DEEP SEA FISHING Madeira is reputed for the huge blue marlin abounding in its waters and attracts celebrated skippers and fishermen worldwide looking to hook a prize specimen. Join the fun and experience the dramatic thrill of the hunt on an exhilarating deep-sea game fishing experience.
PORTO SANTO This Atlantic paradise lies 79km away from Madeira. Travel aboard the Lobo Marinho ferry or by plane to discover the island’s 9km-long golden sandy beach lapped by turquoise water. Explore the Quinta das Palmeiras garden, soak up the sweeping views from Miradouro da Portela, marvel at the volcano-shaped Pico Castelo and learn about local culture.
A skipper and sailor will be on hand to assist guests. Boats depart from Funchal Marina. Private transfers can be arranged. Max 8 people (only one person per couple may fish). Please book at least 2 days in advance.
The ferry trip to the island takes 2 hours and 25 minutes. Depart at 08:00, return at 20:30 or 22:00 from October to June, except on Fridays. Timetable may vary in the summer.
Morning and evening trips by plane are also available. Each flight takes around 15-20 minutes. Please contact our Concierge or Guest Relations team for details.
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SURF, WINDSURF AND STAND-UP PADDLEBOARD There’s a reason why Madeira is often called the Hawaii of Europe. As well as the rugged volcanic mountains, the island offers excellent conditions for surfers and water sports enthusiasts of all ages and experience levels. Enjoy point breaks to reef breaks for surfing, calmer waters with a constant wind force for windsurfing or SUP. Head to Seixal or Porto da Cruz and plunge in. Stand-up paddleboard and windsurfing are available at the hotel.
Instructor available. Please book at least 2 days in advance. Contact our Guest Relations team for details.
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Cultural treasures of Madeira
53MADEIRABELMOND REID ’S PALACE
CULTURAL TREASURES OF MADEIRA
BLANDY’S MADEIRA WINE LODGE Delve back through 200 years of Madeira winemaking on a fascinating guided tour of this atmospheric Lodge in Funchal. Each room has its own character, with differing temperatures and humidity meaning the wines all have varying ageing profiles. Enjoy a visit to the cooperage, where barrels used to be made, as well as a canteiro, where the wine is laid to rest and age. At the end of the tour enjoy a delicious tasting.
Join a group of visitors or let us organise your own private tour. Please book 2 days in advance.
MADEIRAN HERITAGE It may be a small archipelago, but Madeira boasts a long and rich history. Many of its historic buildings have been transformed into museums or monuments that give today’s visitors a deeper understanding of the island’s heritage.
Visit Funchal in the company of student volunteers and learn about the history and culture of Madeira. Among the best-known sites are:
JESUITS’ COLLEGE Part of Madeira University, this college was founded in 1569 by decree of King Dom Sebastião. Constructed from island stone, the iconic Funchal building has been home not only to Jesuits, but English invaders, the military and educational institutions. Admire impressive furniture and Baroque and Mannerist art.
CITY HALL The handsome municipal building, once the palace of the Count of Carvalhal, is an excellent example of late 18th-century architecture, with an interior tiled courtyard and a statue of Leda and the Swan. Visit the Noble Hall to admire portraits of the last kings of Portugal and work by Madeiran artist Alfredo Miguéis.
Visits available Monday-Friday, 10:00-17:00 (without a guide). Private tours available Saturday, 11:00 and 12:30. Please book at least 1 day in advance.
Visits available Monday-Friday, 11:00 or 15:00. Please book at least 1 day in advance.
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CULTURAL TREASURES OF MADEIRA
MUSEUMS AND OTHER PLACES OF INTEREST
SACRED ART MUSEUM Located in the former Bishop’s Palace, in Funchal, this beautifully preserved building houses collections of Flemish and Portuguese art, sculpture, jewellery and vestments spanning the 15th to 19th centuries.
Open Tuesday-Saturday, 10:00-12:30 and 14:30-18:00, Sunday 10:00-13:00.
Open Tuesday-Sunday, 10:00-12:30 and 14:00-17:30.
Open Tuesday-Saturday, 10:00-17:30.
QUINTA DAS CRUZES MUSEUM This imposing manor was formerly the home of João Gonçalves Zarco, one of the discoverers of Madeira and the first Captain of Funchal. Now a museum, it houses a vast collection of artworks, Portuguese furniture, precious gold and silver, jewellery, ceramics and sculptures dating from the Middle Ages onwards.
CASA MUSEU FREDERICO DE FREITAS Dr Frederico de Freitas was a prominent Madeiran lawyer and collector. Inside his striking red home you’ll find a wealth of decorative art, including glazed tiles from around the world and a collection of mugs through the ages, as well as religious sculpture, geographical prints and ceramics.
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY Visit the Legislative Assembly of Madeira, housed in a building commissioned in the early 16th century by King Manuel I for the Funchal Customs Office. Admire gothic features with “alfarje” knotwork ceilings in a Moorish-influenced Mudéjar style. The building was modified several times during the 17th and 18th centuries, with a final flourish in 1982 to accommodate the current complex.
Visits available Monday-Friday, 11:00 or 15:00. Please book at least 1 day in advance.
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CULTURAL TREASURES OF MADEIRA
MUSEUMS AND OTHER PLACES OF INTEREST
Open daily, 10:00-19:00. Suitable for all ages, from children to seniors. Sturdy shoes are advised.
Open Tuesday-Sunday, 10:30-18:00.
Open Monday-Friday, 08:00-19:00. Weekends, 10:00-19:00.
WHALE MUSEUMDiscover the history of whaling at this innovative museum in Caniçal. Three exhibition levels and an audio guide take you through the life of the whalers before you encounter life-size models of whales and dolphins, 3D videos and information about current research and conservation projects in the seas around Madeira.
VOLCANIC CAVES OF SÃO VICENTEFormed nearly 900,000 years ago by a volcanic eruption, these underground caves extend for over 700 metres. Walk through to see stalactites, lava stacks and other volcanological phenomena before reaching the Volcanism Centre, where the birth of Madeira is recreated through audiovisual displays.
ENGENHO DA CALHETA Visit one of the oldest sugarcane mills on the island to learn about sugar production in the past and today’s distillation of high-quality rum. Browse the ground-floor museum and watch an informative film before going to the tasting area, where you can sample bolo de mel (honey cake), rum and potent poncha.