Less than two hours' flight from Lisbon, Madeira proved to be the perfect holiday choice. A natural paradise with spectacular landscapes and vibrant colours, this volcanic island would conquer us from the first meeting.

The road to Funchal, which we covered in about 25 minutes, was as spectacular as landing at the airport included in a top 10 of the most dangerous airports in the world. Sometimes it meanders through green hills or steep cliffs, displaying stunning panoramas, and then plunges you into dark tunnels, at the end of which to snatch a cry of admiration or amazement. There are about 150 tunnels on the island, the longest being over 3 km.

Far from the hustle and bustle of the city, a chic room, with an impressive view of both the ocean and Funchal, was the place where we relaxed after the endless ups and downs. Quinta Sao Goncalo was, therefore, an inspired choice.

The breakfast with hot bread and aromatic fruits, served on the veranda, was the perfect start for fairytale days. The old town with cobbled streets, unpretentious terraces and welcoming people was a delight.

We got lost on the narrow streets, among the buildings whose rebuilt facades keep the charm of the past, staring at the stories painted on the doors. To live and enjoy leisurely. At the corner cafe, we would find out about a cultural project that aims to transform the old centre and promote the local community of artists in a project called "Open Door Art Project". And he succeeded, colour and positive energy, art and good mood.

The cable car ride followed. You don't know what to admire first: the hundreds of houses with orange roofs that stretch in steps under your feet or the ocean of an unreal blue. The climb to the Monte neighbourhood takes 15 minutes. A ticket for adults costs around 10 euros, respectively 15 euros round trip.

We got two shower tickets. It was a pity not to go down in the speed with Carreiros do Monte, the wicker and wooden sledges, manoeuvred by two carreios with the help of two ropes and with special shoes. Their tradition dates back to 1800 when the wealthy inhabitants of the hills above Funchal wanted to get quickly to the lower town (the price is around 30 euros for two people).

Multicoloured hydrangeas and parrots, waterfalls and Japanese gardens make the botanical garden a paradise.

A new day, other attractions. Cabo Girao, one of the highest cliffs in the world, located just 15 km from Funchal, awaits you with a glass and steel platform to reveal a vast panorama over the Atlantic Ocean. The view is fantastic, the adrenaline at its maximum.

One of the best ways to get around the island is to rent a scooter; you can rent motorway legal ones and use it to drive up and down the winding mountain roads that will often take you headlong into the clouds. The salty smell of the ocean and the dizzying scent of flowers will keep you company.

Camara da Lobos, a small fishing village located 15 minutes from the island's capital, awaits you with restaurants where seafood and fish are not missing from the menu. Green cliffs and azure fishing boats make up the picture of a charming village.

Santana, the village with traditional houses with thatched roofs, is an unmissable attraction. Small, triangular and colourful, the restored houses house chic shops. We were lucky to arrive in the middle of the country holiday, so we dropped the plans and enjoyed the party. We enjoyed local dishes; we tried Poncha, the traditional drink made of lemon juice, oranges and rum.

Located in the historical centre of Funchal, Farmers' Square brings together the colours, tastes and flavours of Madeira. He greets you with mosaics representing images with florists so that, two steps further, the real florists can offer you multicoloured bouquets. Fruits and vegetables, fish and spices specific to the area find their place alongside traditional objects. Do not leave the market without tasting the fruits with distinctive taste because the sellers know how to promote their products on the stalls.

What else can you visit!

Pico do Arieiro, Ribeiro Frio, Machico, Ponta de Sao Lourenco, Terreiro da Luta, Muzeul balenei (Whale Museum), Embroidery factory, etc.

There are centres where you can find all the information you need to turn your vacation into a success. Public transport is very well developed. Tourist buses and excursions for all budgets are ready to reveal the charm of this beautiful island.

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