Climate information:
The climate in Madeira is very kind throughout November, December, January and February. Yes you can see a little rain sometimes, but rarely does the temperature dip below 14 degrees C.
The island has 14 or more micro-climates that the weather forecasters rarely take and it can rise to the mid twenties, the weather forecasters rarely take this into account - so if it is raining in the West the likelihood is that it will be dry in the east, or the north. It is fair to say the north coast of the island is the wettest - this is reflected in the lush green forests and green clad cliff faces. The sea is stormy and the surf enormous!
The West:
The West of the island is also green but less tempestuous in nature - the rain forests are green and lush because of the high rainfall up in the mountains but when the rain stops and the sun beats down it is well worth getting the walking boots out and having an olfactory treat. The pine and eucalyptus tree smells are joined by fern and other low growing herbs to assault you senses - all these wonderful smells combining to give you a great sense of well-being.
Up to the mountains and down to the ocean:
Maeira is mountainous in nature and some of the road journeys afford the most breathtaking views. The Levada systems (small canals delivering water to gardeners both commercial and pleasure types) have small paths to walk along by the side of them. They are a must to do even if you are not a tried and tested walker. Just pull out the trainers and hop on for an hour or less even, to walk amongst the greenery, through the ends of local, community worked gardens (although it is fair to say there are less of these now than there used to be - see them while they still exist!) - you will be admiring a nice field of regimented, serrries rows of potatoes when you round a bend and WOW, the ocean view hits you over the tops of heady smelling gorse - pooping its seed like a bowl of breakfast cereal! If you want o see more pictures just ask!
Golf:
The famous Palheiro Golf Course is just a 4o minute drive away. A second Golf course is being built further west in Ponta do Pargo - the most westerly point on the island, sporting a rather nice lighthouse and spectacular views to the north...the sea is pure turquoise blue as the waves aerate the water by means of crashing surf onto the black rocks.
