THERE’s a bit of a magic about Madeira and it’s no wonder why one of Shannon Airport’s newest routes is going down a treat.
Shannon’s first flights to Madeira took off in April of this year, it is already emerging as a favourite route which resulted in Ryanair adding it to its winter schedule making it a year-long destination.
Cristiano Ronaldo is the pride and joy of Madeira with airports and museums named after him, he is of course the island’s most favourite sun and one of the greatest footballers to have played the beautiful game. While statues done in his honour have been questionable with regards to their accuracy, there is no doubt of the impact and legacy he has left on the island with many visitors flocking to the CR7 Museum in Funchal.
With stunning scenery, the landscape of Madeira will stop you in your tracks with its valleys and volcanic peaks.
It was back in April when this writer had the pleasure of undertaking a working holiday in Madeira, it was the first occasion where pages of The Clare Echo were filed from the island.
Flying from Shannon Airport was as always a hassle free experience. The press delegation included Connacht Tribune Editor, Dave O’Connell, Galway Advertiser journalist Úna Sinnott and podcaster Fergal O’Keeffe originally from Ennis but now domiciled in Tipperary, his Banner roots ensured Clare hurling was regularly on the agenda, the picture for the All-Ireland defence seemed much brighter then. Travel agents were also on the trip and they included Siobhán Flynn of Ennis based Gail Travel Agency to help keep the Clare contingent strong.
Prices in Madeira are more than reasonable and the quality of accommodation is second to none. During a week-long stay, Suite Hotel Eden Mar in Funchal and Hotel do Campo in Ribeira Brava left a glowing impression. Funchal is an ideal setting as a base when travelling to Madeira, it is central to everything. Ribeira Brava is a small coastal setting with a nice backdrop and hills to ensure the step count stays high while indulging in the local cuisine.
Over the course of a week, it was a jam-packed schedule and as the only member of the Irish delegation staying for longer than three full-days it proved to be an inspired choice to properly sample what Madeira has to offer.
Sunday flights from Shannon to Madeira tend to result in a midnight arrival meaning the exploring won’t start until the following day.
Beginning with a walking tour of Funchal, the colour of the island began to quickly emerge and the realisation that there is frequently festivals taking place in the town which is named after a sweet-smelling wild herb. Funchal is Madeira’s largest tourist, commercial and cultural centre, it is located on a large slope facing the Atlantic and shaped like a natural amphitheatre with cathedrals and churches to stop you in your tracks. The selection of cafes is equally impressive, it is worth navigating through the well-constructed laneways to find some of the hidden spots such as Uau Cacau which can tend to be cheaper than some counterparts in more prominent locations.
Mercado dos Lavradores, the local farmers market is a hive of activity and gives an indication of the importance placed on food quality. Spread across two floors, the market also underlines that there is a wide variety of choice on food alone.
Catamaran tours are also on the agenda to spot some whales and dolphins if looking to unwind some bit, choppy waters mean it could just be forty winks as opposed to getting some real shut-eye when at sea.
Museums are plentiful in Museum with trips made to the BAM (the Madeira Banana Museum) and Mudas – Contemporary Art Museum. No discrimination to bananas intended but the contemporary art was the more interesting of the two, they also knew their target audience as there was an exhibition running on newspapers which went down a treat.
Also noted for its fortified wine, a trip to Blandy’s Vineyard is an interesting way to gauge more on its importance to the island, there are nearly 500 hectares of vineyards in Madeira and there are 400 growers on the island. The Blandy’s business was founded in 1811 and they are experts when it cames to giving a warm welcome.
Anything beyond forty minutes is considered a long drive in Madeira so connectivity is important. Its why there is an extensive network of tunnels that traverse the mountainous terrain, making travel around the island much easier. These tunnels, along with bridges and viaducts, are a testament to Madeira’s advanced engineering, particularly in navigating the volcanic landscape. There are over 100 tunnels, some dating back to the early 20th century, while others are part of a modern highway system. It also adds for very scenic drives.
If you’re thinking everything is a bit too relaxing there’s also a more adventurous element to Madeira to get the pulses racing. What better to try than a bit of canonying. It is becoming an increasingly popular activity. The descents of the island’s streams get the adrenaline pumping. The challenge consists of crossing mountain streams, abundant along canyoning trails in Madeira, overcoming the various obstacles encountered during the descent. Canyoning is a different way to explore some of Madeira’s hidden and virtually untouched natural nooks, always accompanied by the clear waters that, between successive waterfalls, slide down the mountains.
Hiking is another worthwhile activity whilst in Madeira. Nazaré Viewpoint is located at an altitude of 164 metres, to the west of Funchal, this viewpoint gives visitors the opportunity to enjoy a panoramic view over almost the entire length of the capital of Madeira. From the coastline, mostly marked by the iconic Funchal bay, to the mountain peaks, this is a particularly photogenic scenario. Unfortunately, misty weather prevented yours truly from getting such a sight but it’s reason enough to make a return trip. The hike itself is not too challenging and won’t be a bother to anyone who enjoys the outdoors.
Prices are very modest in Madeira, for example you can purchase the local newspaper Diario de Notícias for €1.30 and you get a free coffee. Local cafes in Co Clare are more than welcome to give out an edition of The Clare Echo with any beverages sold. Full dinners can be got for as low as €10 in certain places but you will rarely more than €20 for the big meal of the day. Coffee prices are also far lower than the Irish equivalent.
On the weather side, Madeira is very much four seasons in the one day so a rain jacket is as essential as bringing the sun cream in the luggage. It’s the type of weather where you will tan easily while waiting to be collected for the Airport. Temperatures average 20C in winter and in the high twenties in summer, making it an ideal year-round holiday destination. The off-season is from October to April which means rain is frequent and Instagram views on hikes may be frustrating.
In summary, a trip to Madeira is certainly recommended, especially with flights from Shannon Airport. You can tell them The Clare Echo sent you!
