Because of its unique location in the mid-ocean the island of Madeira is blessed with a very special event: the presence of visiting whales and dolphins, which has only recently been recognized as another asset to this beautiful holiday destination.
This year was an extraordinary year with regard to the number of Fin and Sei Whales to be spotted in the waters surrounding the island, where these species took up residence during the summer months.
As just five kilometers off shore the ocean floor reaches a depth of more than 3,000 meters, Madeira’s waters close to the coast rapidly drop very deep, and on most days these ocean going creatures are swimming by right on your door step. In some years oceanic species of dolphins along with very rare Beaked Whales are also common to see in the waters of Madeira.
Apart from this breathtaking whale and dolphin spotting experience you will also get a glimpse of ocean wandering sea birds, some of which are found nowhere else.
TOBOGGAN RIDES!:
There are several words synonymous to Monte and ‘toboggan ride’ is surely one of them! Originally a fast means of transport down to Funchal for people living in Monte, these toboggan sledges appeared around 1850.
Still in use today, they attract thousands of tourists every year who want to make this exciting experience of sliding at high speed on narrow, winding streets down to Funchal. These two-seater wicker sledges glide on wooden runners, pushed and steered by two men traditionally dressed in white cotton clothes and a straw hat, using their rubber-soled boots as brakes.
The downhill journey to Funchal is made in about 10 minutes on a total course of 2 km, reaching at times a speed of 48 km/hour. Adventurous, yet safe, an ‘old-fashioned’ toboggan ride to make your way down from Monte is the perfect contrast to the high-technology cable car going up to Monte. Don’t miss out on it!
FINE DINING :
Restaurant
Vila da Rocha
Funchal, Madeira, Portugal
Seeking to be one of the top ten Restaurants in Madeira. Situated in Monte with wonderful views over Funchal and the harbour.
Estrada Luso Brasileira Nº32, 9050-290 Monte, Funchal
Tel: 291 784 302
Monday to Friday 09h - 22h Saturday 12h - 22h, For the moment - Closed on Sunday
Please reserve your table before-hand to avoid disappointment, Friday and Saturday evenings in particular.
Golf:
Golf
Golf is available on two spectacular golf courses, both with lovely views and excellent conditions: the Palheiro Golf and the Santo da Serra Golf Club.
The Palheiro Golf has a course with 18 holes and was designed by Cabell Robinson. The Santo da Serra Golf Club has 27 holes and was designed by Robert Trent Jones. This latter hosts every year the Madeira Island Open (part of the PGA European Tour) and is rated as one of the best in Europe.
Porto Santo also has a golf course, inaugurated on the 1st of October 2004 and designed by Severiano Ballesteros, the former Spanish world champion golfer. It includes two 9-hole circuits and a 9-hole, illuminated pitch and putt course, plus a clubhouse, putting green and driving range. This is a course that can be played all year round.
Other Activities:
Nearby attractions
