Magical Madeira

Off the coast of west Africa is a volcanic island discovered by Portuguese in the early 1400’s.

Hiking trails in the island’s rocky center are a primary activity for visitors. Steep but constructed trails, many with steps, take tourists along ridge lines above the clouds.

The capital city is full of bars and restaurants and has very little flat land. The nearby airport is partly built on a huge concrete platform. Roads are straight up (or zig zag up ) steep hills, are carved on the sides of cliffs, or in tunnels. Driving is a big part of the adventure.

The east end of the island is not inhabited and has some spectacular hiking trails. The tourists I saw were mostly younger Western Europeans. Many had children in backpacks.

Aqueducts carrying water from the central mountains to farms often go through tunnels. My first trip through this tunnel was scary. The roof was 6 feet above the path. Unfortunately, the top of my head was 6 feet 1 inch above the path. A headlamp is necessary.

The north side of the island is constantly pounded by waves. watching them come in is mesmerizing.

We saw none but were slammed into waves and rain for three hours. I was actually quite an adventure! The 20 minute walk back to the car in the rain was fun, too, because we were soaking wet and it was outside the box.

Hiking in the rain