Southwest of the Portuguese coast, Madeira Island is known as the Pearl of the Atlantic and has been christened the European Hawaii by the surfers who first enjoyed its powerful challenging waves. Jardim do Mar, Paul do Mar and Ribeira da Janela are some of the best known spots, but other better kept secrets are known only to the locals.
The Powerful swell and crystal clear water are bound get your adrenaline running and bring you full satisfaction. The crowd is small and the locals are known for their hospitality.
The archipelago was discovered in the XV Century by Portuguese navigators and it is now an autonomous region composed of the main Madeira Island, Porto Santo, the Selvagens and the Desertas. Its main cash flow comes from tourism and surfing is an increasingly popular activity.
The unique and beautiful landscape is made up of abrupt mountains and stunning green and blooming valleys. The black sand beaches and the famous Levadas – pathways along the mountains – are also a typical feature. The wine and local poncho, as well as the meat skewers, bolo do caco bread and bananas are some of the most famous Madeira products, besides, of course, the best football player of our times, Cristiano Ronaldo.
Carnival, the flower festival and New Years are the high seasons for tourism.