10 reasons to visit Madeira, from sensational views to wine festivals and more
![10 reasons to visit Madeira, from sensational views to wine festivals and more 10 reasons to visit Madeira, from sensational views to wine festivals and more](/cms_media/module_img/7724/3862423_5_articlesmall_MixCollage-24-Nov-2023-05-48-PM-231.jpg)
Have your cake and eat it in Madeira
We’ve all heard of Madeira cake and most know about the wine of the same name, but the island which these delicacies are named after, isn’t on the traditional tourist trail for Irish holidaymakers.
With lush volcanic peaks and plummeting cliffs, remote villages and beachside resorts, dramatic waterfalls and carpets of exotic flowers, Madeira is one of Portugal’s most enchanting regions.
Historically strategic as a trading post between Africa, Europe and the Americas, this sub-tropical haven is a draw for hikers, walkers and nature fans as much as food and wine lovers.
![Forest view over Ribeiro Frio in the mountains of Madeira island with lucious green trees and an irrigation canal along the footpath. Forest view over Ribeiro Frio in the mountains of Madeira island with lucious green trees and an irrigation canal along the footpath.](https://www.irishexaminer.com/cms_media/module_img/7724/3862408_5_articleinline_iStock-1471850849.jpg)
![Tropical Botanical Gardens in Funchal, capital of Madeira island, Portugal Tropical Botanical Gardens in Funchal, capital of Madeira island, Portugal](https://www.irishexaminer.com/cms_media/module_img/7724/3862411_5_articleinline_iStock-1124535837_1_.jpg)
€12.50 per person.
€15 per person.
![Pink and purple petals, from the laurel trees, make a path on Madeira Island Pink and purple petals, from the laurel trees, make a path on Madeira Island](https://www.irishexaminer.com/cms_media/module_img/7724/3862414_5_articleinline_iStock-1000282212_1_.jpg)
![People harvesting grapes in the vineyard of the Madeira Wine Company at Madeira Wine Festival in Estreito de Camara de Lobos, Madeira, Portugal People harvesting grapes in the vineyard of the Madeira Wine Company at Madeira Wine Festival in Estreito de Camara de Lobos, Madeira, Portugal](https://www.irishexaminer.com/cms_media/module_img/7724/3862417_5_articleinline_iStock-836438196.jpg)
![Dolphins in the Atlantic Ocean off Madeira Island Dolphins in the Atlantic Ocean off Madeira Island](https://www.irishexaminer.com/cms_media/module_img/7724/3862420_5_articleinline_iStock-869242896_1_.jpg)
From €30 per person.
Shared tours from €27.50 per person.
Barcelo Funchal Old Town
A beautiful, colonial-style building in the centre of town. Opposite the harbour, it is a smart and luxurious hotel that manages to feel relaxed and easygoing. The rooftop infinity pool offers great views of the town and sea beyond. Rooms from €137 per night.
Ryanair flies direct from Dublin to Funchal, with return fares from €120.