FESTIVALS:
MADEIRA hosts CARNIVAL WEEK during the month of FEBRUARY, but differs annually The GRAND PARADE is held on a SATURDAY and the Fun Parade is on the following Tuesday. So if you feel inclined to donn a Wig or
Moustache you are cordially invited to join in the fun with the locals. Singing, Music and Dancing along the streets of the City with small stalls offering the traditional food of the Island.
APRIL is FLOWER FESTIVAL TIME. Admire the beautiful Carpet of Flowers along the main Avenue leading up to the Cathedral. The Display Marquee of prize orchids and other exotic blooms. The culmination of the Festival is the GRAND PARADE of FLOATS festooned with thousands and thousands of flowers. This festival is not to be missed, but please inquire early as it is one of the most popular. The dates change annually.
FLOWERS AND GARDENS:
It is not for nothing that Madeira is known as 'THE FLOATING GARDEN'. All the gardens ARE AT THEIR BEST DURING THE MONTHS OF MAY AND JUNE continuing right through the Summer months. An added BONUS takes place in the form of the ATLANTIC FESTIVAL during the month of JUNE. EVERY SATURDAY evening there is a spectacular Fireworks Display. Although it is hosted by Madeira, three other countries will also be competing for the winning title. During the course of Atlantic Week local 'wandering minstrels' will be entertaining guests with their music and songs. This is a wonderful time just to sit at one of the street-side cafes, sip a glass of wine, listen to the 'troubadors' and watch the World go by.
WINE FESTIVAL.:
The Annual Wine Harvest is celebrated in the Centre of FUNCHAL during the month of SEPTEMBER. Small stalls along the main avenues offer MADEIRA wine tasting and local traditional food. Performances of FOLKLORE singing and dancing take place on stages erected for the occasion. Altogether a delightful time to mingle with the local Madeiran people and enjoy the festivities.
The next festival here in Funchal is the CHRISTMAS ILLUMINATIONS which are turned on round about the 6th DECEMBER and continue for about a month. Every street, lane and building - as far as the eye can see - is decorated. Ofcourse this culminates in a magnificent fireworks display to welcome in the New Year. The view from the apartment is absolutely spectacular and you feel as if you can reach out and touch the fireworks. Do not miss out on Funchal at this time of the year as it will be forever remembered.
Golf:
Madeira has two Golf Course facilities........Palheiro Golf Course is situate high above the City of Funchal in close proximity to the Botanic Gardens, commanding a spectacular view of the surrounding area. Santo da Serra Golf Club (18 hole) is approximately a 30 minute drive from the City and is known for hosting the annual Madeiran Open towards the end of MARCH.
Other Activities:
LEVADA WALKS, GARDENS & SCENIC BEAUTY
