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Madeira Island
Madeira Island (pronounced me'deire) is known as "the Pearl of the Atlantic" or "the floating garden". The island was discovered in 1419 by João Gonçalvez Zarco and Tristão Vaz Teixeira, they decided to name it "Ilha da Madeira" or "Island of Timber" because, at the time, the island was densely covered with trees and was totally impassable.
The island is 741 square kms. (57 kms. long and 22 kms. Wide. Possibly, Madeira is also called the floating garden because flowers are in bloom all year round.
Madeira is the oldest tourist destination in Europe. More than 100 years ago, the British discovered Madeira as a holiday island and, to this day, British tourists continue to charter vacations to this paradise. It's "tropical" weather, friendly and spontaneous people, and relaxed atmosphere guarantees a well-rested vacation to its tourists.
Although Madeira does not have many sandy beaches, there are a lot of terrific pools filled with sea water built into the cliff side with steps leading down to the ocean.
Funchal is the capital city of Madeira. At five centuries old, this city is named funchal because of the abundance of fennel (funcho) that was growing there. When touring Funchal you cannot help but marvel at the beautiful sidewalks in alternate patterns of marble and hardened lava.
Nature has much to offer its audience here in Madeira. Wallow in the magnificence of majestic mountains, beautiful waterfalls, and colorful flowers in bloom. Up north is even wilder and more spectacular. And many of the best vineyards and colonial architecture can be found there.
The second highest sea cliff in the world (and also the highest in Europe) is called Cabo Girão and can be found in Madeira.
There are so many things for you to see, do, and enjoy. Like most Portuguese towns and regions, many of Madeira's villages have fine churches and other examples of Portuguese colonial architecture.
