Wine, seafood and a sub-tropical climate, why Madeira is the perfect year-round destination

James Thompson of foodie Instagram account @food_feels explores the fish markets and vineyards of Madeira 
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James Thompson30 July 2018

Apart from wine and Cristiano Ronaldo, I didn't know a whole lot about Madeira.

But I recently spent a few days there and it’s clear why locals are proud of this little island south-west of Portugal.

From the food to the wine, hotels to the beaches and, not forgetting the sub-tropical weather, Madeira is well worth a visit.

Here are five things I loved about it...

Dolphin and Whale Watching

Madeira's location in the Atlantic invites some of the ocean’s best to its shores, including various whales and dolphins, such as the beaked and humpback whale, as well as the bottle nose and striped dolphin.

Belmond Reid’s Palace

The Belmond Reid’s Palace cannot be missed. The hotel sits above the ocean at the end of the capital city, Funchal. The hotel embodies old school charm at its finest, and is now a 125 year-old icon in Madeira.

While we were there, the hotel was hosting ‘Art of Flavours’, a gastronomic festival gathering eight Michelin chefs from across various Michelin-starred Belmond Hotels for three days of dining, masterclasses and live shows.

We attended the lawn party on the Saturday evening where each chef was serving their signature dishes and desserts, all served alongside local wines. The exciting evening was capped off with fireworks, something Madeira is also known for, as it holds the Guinness world record for the biggest fireworks show in the world – it takes place on New Year’s Eve every year.

Belmond Reid's Palace is full of charm
James Thompson

Local food and fish markets

The ‘Mercado dos Lavradores’, which means Farmer’s Market, has been situated in the old part of Funchal since the 1940s to provide the island a central location to buy and sell products.

Go upstairs for fruit and vegetables - especially their ever popular bananas, as well as their different species of passion fruit. Head downstairs for the fish market and, for the not so faint-hearted, the black scabbardfish, one of the most horrific looking fishes found deep in the ocean around Madeira yet delicious!

Explore the food markets in the capital Funchal 
James Thompson

Rooftop drinks

Funchal seems to have a spectacular vistas from wherever you are. And, cleverly, there are a few brilliant rooftop bars and terraces to take advantage of this.

The Terrace at Belmond Reid’s Palace is open to the public during the morning and lunch and can be booked for the popular afternoon tea each day.

The Vine Hotel’s rooftop deck is located right in the middle of town and has views in every direction - a great place both day and night.

Find a rooftop to admire the Madeiran views
James Thompson

Wine Tasting

Madeira wine is known around the world. It’s a fortified wine that comes in both dry and sweet styles, the extra notable flavours in this wine come from repeatedly heating it, giving it a unique taste which Madeira wine is known for.

There are plenty of wine tour options on the island, whether it be for a full-day or just a few hours.

For more information visit madeiraallyear.com

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