// Madeira
against a backdrop of volcanic mountainous peaks of 1,860 metres, to surfing some huge waves at São Vicente in the north of the island.
While most of the hotels and attractions are centred around Funchal, Mrs & Mr Jones wanted a more authentic taste of island life and headed out to the picturesque fishing village which was Winston Churchill’s favourite painting spot – Camara de Lobos – and then took a trip further inland to Prazeres, which is surrounded by mountains and lush eucalyptus forests.
found in contrast that it has all the makings of a great holiday with sleek hotels, boat-fresh seafood, a developing arts scene and that the island of eternal spring is actually very cool if you do your research. There are festivals all year round including the much- heralded Madeira Film Festival (
www.madeirafilmfestival.com) and plenty of music festivals for all genres.
Mrs Jones adores pretty things and was instantly struck that the roads and streets throughout the capital, Funchal, were covered in purple petals as they fell from the numerous jacaranda trees. The natural floral canvas adorning the island is truly spectacular; an exuberant garden of volcanic soil where just about anything grows. One of the best ways to see the views of Funchal is to hop on the cable car that takes you up to the Botanical Garden or the Monte Palace. Even if you don’t want to visit the gardens, the trip is worth it for the views, and Mr Jones enjoyed the most unique way to come down the hill - the toboggan.
This is one of the slopiest islands in the world and for those looking at shaping up their calves you will find no easier place. Madeira isn’t a beach destination (though there plenty of lidos everywhere) and even with 99 miles of coastline, the shore is predominantly rock and cliffs. Mr Jones was very impressed with the array of sports on offer from scuba diving, to mountain biking
FOOD AND DRINK The question was meat or fish and Mrs & Mr Jones agreed that both had to be sampled in vast quantities! Eating out in Madeira is extremely good value and everywhere offers an excellent array of Portuguese wines and of course the local Madeiran specialties of port, sherry and rum.
Mr Jones was determined to try the Sliced Picanha at Beef and Wines in Funchal. A skewer of 3lbs of seasoned sirloin hanging like a kebab, dripping with juices, was then carved in succulent slices in front of him and replenished as soon as he desired. As he rather unattractively smacked his lips whilst also tucking into a choice of at least 8 side dishes, Mrs Jones quaffed her way through the sommelier’s list of stunning local fortified wines. The old town in Funchal is hip and arty, hosting the ‘art of open doors’ and has a fabulous lively atmosphere at night when the locals pack in. Santa Maria restaurant is where the fish reigns. Decorated with sardine cans that have been polished and stacked to form the bar, the table in the courtyard provided some lovely late sunshine while Mrs Jones dined on fresh sushi, scallops and an exquisite Lime risotto with Snapper fillet. One of the most famous eating destinations in Funchal is the Restaurante Do Forte, which is located at the Historical 17th Century Fortress of São Tiago. Mr Jones decided to make a romantic gesture by organising the restaurant’s classic Austin 12 to pick them up from their hotel. Mrs Jones felt rather Grace
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