oh, madeira

It's not like I knew where you were before we came and visited you over Christmas. I'm sure that I had glanced over you many times on a map of the world because your presence in the Atlantic Ocean is so discreet. Although I didn't know of your existence beforehand, it was very easy to fall head-over-heels because of your stunning beauty.


We spent most of our days in your capital city, Funchal, walking along the waterfront and enjoying the views of the rugged coastlines and the sloped hillside lined with terracotta-coloured roofs.



Oh, Madeira, you were a gracious hostess. You made us feel relaxed as we explored narrow streets, went to the market, and visited the botanical garden. Also, your local, sweet wine did not disappoint our tastebuds.





Your myriad of streets and tunnels permitted us to see the rest of the island.


We stopped in at little villages on the coast.




We hiked to the highest peak on the island.




We hiked along the levadas to reach a waterfall.




And, on a windy day we walked along the eastern point of the island.




We didn't know how you did it but the weather was nearly perfect during our visit. But, near the end of our trip, we observed a spectacular thunder and lightning show early in the morning and watched the waves crash along the shore. Even the squalls that we were caught in didn't dampen the mood we were in.



I know it was Christmas and all, but thank you, Madeira, for adorning your absolute finest for us.