The Eagle Rock near Faial on Madeira

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The Eagle Rock on the north coast near Faial, Madeira, Portugal

Northern Madeira is characterised by dramatic cliffs, overgrown with evergreen laurel forests, and dominated by the rugged and craggy mountain massifs around Pico Ruivo or Pico do Arieiro. In the few places with easy access to the sea or less steep slopes, settlements have formed to cultivate the fertile soil on terraced fields – growing wine, vegetables, potatoes, corn, beans, or onions. Faial is overlooked by the steep flanks of the “Eagle Rock”, a landmark of the north coast. Read more

To the summit of Pico Ruivo (1,862 m) on Madeira

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The path along Pico das Torres to Pico Ruivo leads through the mountains of Madeira on rock ledges and through tunnels

The second stage of the hike from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo leads across a newly created path shortly before the last tunnel on the western mountain flank of Pico das Torres, as the old section of the path was impassable due to a rockfall. Since such interruptions and diversions can occur frequently, you should always check the condition of the path beforehand. Read more

Hike from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo

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Hiking trail along the rock faces of Pico das Torres, Madeira, Portugal

The hike across the roof of Madeira is one of the island’s classic tours – from Pico do Arieiro (1,818 m) on a wonderfully laid out high-altitude path on exposed rock ledges, like here at Pico das Torres, through tunnels and over secured ridges to the highest point of Madeira – Pico Ruivo (1,862 m). Read more

Sunrise over Madeira

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Sunrise over Madeira at the summit of Pico do Arieiro

The view from Pico do Arieiro (1,818 m) over Madeira is breathtaking even by day, so the summit seemed the perfect place to experience a quiet and lonely full-moon night and the sunrise over the island. Read more

Full moon night on Pico do Arieiro

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Radar station on Pico do Arieiro, Madeira, Portugal

At 1,818 m, Pico do Arieiro is the second-highest peak in Madeira. As it is accessible by road almost to the summit, the magnificent views of Madeira’s rugged mountains attract many visitors. Read more

Vibrant folklore in Madeira

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Folklore group in Monte, Funchal, Madeira

Late one afternoon in May, I visited the pilgrimage church in Monte, Funchal, Madeira. Unfortunately, the church was shrouded in silvery clouds, so there was no sweeping view of the city and coast. Far more interesting, however, was my encounter with a group of musicians and folk dancers who were preparing for a performance in front of the church to celebrate the 500th anniversary of the Diocese of Funchal. Read more

Musicians in traditional Madeiran costume

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Musicians in traditional Madeiran costume before a performance at Monte Church

The two musicians from a folk group, preparing for their performance on the steps in front of the Monte Shrine Church in Funchal (and possibly seeking heavenly assistance), are wearing the traditional men’s costume: white trousers with pleats above the knees, a pleated shirt with embroidery, and boots, known as “Botachas” or “Bota-Chã”, made from tanned cowhide. Read more