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Life in Madeira pros and cons. Madera nightlife

Everyone has heard about Madeira, but many have a rather vague idea of where this island is located and how it can attract an ordinary tourist. Madeira is a resort area in Portugal, where the entire economy is based on the leisure and entertainment industry. Yana Loskutova, director of IMadeira Home Consult, tells what kind of real estate you can buy in Madeira, how to make money on renting out and why it is better to own a three-star hotel on the island than to produce Madeira.

Madeira is spoiled by tourists, but there are few Russians among them

How open is the Madeira real estate market - rather unexplored in Russia - to foreigners? How do locals treat visitors?

The Portuguese are very friendly people, and they do not divide visitors by nationality. They are very spoiled by tourists (usually British and Germans), but at the same time they are always eager to help and make the stay in the country pleasant. Many even learn a few phrases in Russian: it is useful, it can bring good tips or just help people. I think that many people who visit Portugal discover their interesting mentality: absolutely non-Spanish calmness, slowness and goodwill. For example, when I lived in Madeira for seven years, I never felt like an outcast: on the contrary, the Portuguese are interested in everything, they ask questions about Russia, whether it’s cold there and how they live in general.

A good solution for those who are looking for an island of peace and happiness in retirement. As for the youth, there is also something to offer, although we are far from Ibiza with beach parties. An important factor for buying a home in Madeira may be the still small number of Russian tourists. People often ask: "How many Russians do you have?" Apparently, people still often want to go away and take a break from Russian reality.

View of Funchal - the capital of Madeira

- How do Russians now relate to buying apartments in Madeira - more like an investment or a momentary whim?

A wave of wealthy and thoughtful Russians has reached us: in the last two years, houses b in Madeira have been bought not only for have a nice holiday but also as an investment. Previously, it was an emotional purchase: a wonderful island, year-round summer, beautiful flowers. We have +16 in winter and +25 in summer. I came on an excursion - I liked it - I bought it, and then I thought about what to do with it. Now people have sobered up and think about profitability in advance.

The main players in the Maidera real estate market are not the British, not the Chinese, and not even the Russians, but local residents and emigrants from Africa and South America. It happens that there are half-empty complexes - but not because the apartments there are not sold, but because a Venezuelan comes, calls his friends, and they all buy apartments in absentia. This is both a withdrawal of money and a good investment in an interesting object in a stable country. Often they come once a year or less often - to visit their possessions.

On the way to Funchal

Rental housing in Madeira is almost a ubiquitous business

- What profitability can be from renting real estate in Madeira?

We do not have such periods when the influx of tourists subsides. The season lasts year-round, although the high season is from late April to mid-October. Then - the Christmas holidays, the carnival, the April flower festival ... The absence of this failure helps in terms of rent. There are different types of market: summer rentals are mostly Russian, British and German tourists, winter rentals are tourists from Northern Europe. With the right strategy for renting an apartment in Madeira, you can earn year-round income. And this income is average European - 5-8% per annum.

For example, a studio in Madeira in a complex near the sea worth €75-85 thousand can really be rented for €250-350 per week with an average workload of 80%. But utility costs should also be taken into account: €35-50 per month for the operation of a condominium, another €50 for electricity and gas.

Camara de Lobos

- How common is renting out and for what periods do they usually rent houses?

Rental housing in Madeira is almost a ubiquitous business and a kind of tradition. Locals have their own housing, in addition to buying apartments or building houses and renting them out. Usually houses and apartments are rented for vacations for a week or two, although it happens that they rent for months - for the whole summer. In this case, the price will be less.

- In which cities of Madeira can you rent out property with greater profit? Where should you invest?

Many regions have their own attractive places. Everything is different: there are beaches, mountains, forests, and due to the elevation difference, you can immediately get from summer to off-season. The British are more fond of places where it is cooler, eucalyptus forests, while others prefer to live near the sea.

But there are a priori popular regions - this is the capital of Funchal, where half of the island's population lives, or rather the new part of the city near the promenade and beaches. There are more modern buildings, high-rise buildings and hotels. The private sector and villas are villages near Funchal.

Funchal old town

There is also the Old Town of Funchal, which has been abandoned for quite a long time. Interest in the area was attracted with the help of an annual art festival: modern paintings are painted on old walls and doors and an exhibition is created under open sky. When I arrived there seven years ago, the area was quite depressing, but now it’s exactly the opposite, and when they think where to open a shop or restaurant, they always start choosing options from the Old Town. And for those who are focused on winter rental, I can also recommend this area - when the beach is no longer so relevant (since there are not many people who want to swim at +18), people pay more attention to the color of the streets and local architecture.

Funchal itself grew quite quickly, and mainly high-rise buildings developed. If there are houses and villas, then they are already on the slopes of the hills and are not very suitable for rent. In terms of renting villas, two other cities are interesting: Calheta on the south coast west of Funchal, and the elite village of Garajau, closer to the capital. Russians and British buy houses in Madeira exactly there. In Garajau, probably half of the British and Germans, 30% of wealthy Portuguese and 20% of Russians. The price for a small house to be renovated starts from €300 thousand, the average price for a solid house with an ocean view, a swimming pool and a garden is €500-700 thousand.

Central part of Funchal

- What are the real estate prices in Funchal itself?

It is clear that in the capital, with a similar quality of apartments, their prices will be higher than in neighboring towns. Prices start from €50 thousand, but for this you need to know the places and agents. It can be, for example, debt real estate. Apartments that are interesting for Russians are located closer to the sea, they have views, and cost from €60-70 thousand. Three-room apartments cost €120-250 thousand. The cost per square meter will be about €1200 - but this is with decoration and a fully equipped kitchen.

Speaking of apartments in Madeira - an island measuring 50 by 30 km - it should be noted that good suggestions, interesting for Russians, including those for rent, can be very, very few, literally a hundred or two.

- And how much will the cost of such property rise?

Monthly expenses for a two-room apartment can range from €30 to €100. Depends on the condition and on the local area - whether there is a garden and a swimming pool.

Santa Cruz

Banks sell real estate, but do not give mortgages to Russians

- Is banking real estate in Madeira selling well?

There are such offers, but foreign tourists simply "do not have time" for them. Locals are waiting for profitable properties and have time to react quickly and buy housing. Realtors on such transactions earn less than in the secondary market: commissions from the bank are small. But still we are satisfied and actively sell banking real estate. But gradually, the debt real estate market begins to decline, and compared to the situation three years ago, the surge in offers from banks is no longer so large, so those who want to acquire cheap real estate in Madeira need to hurry.

We have unusual cases of sales related to the current real estate. A person arrives, leaves a deposit and says that we should contact him if there are offers in a particular house. When this happens, we send photos of the apartment, the client quickly returns to Madeira or sends a power of attorney and closes the deal.

Luxury villa in Madeira

- Is it difficult to make such a deal with a loan?

It is difficult for Russians, as non-residents of the European Union, to get a mortgage in Portugal. For a Portuguese bank, a Russian client is not completely transparent, and even when you bring a certificate from work, it is not clear whether it is real or just printed at home on a printer. We expect that in the near future Portuguese banks will work through partners in Russia, that is, the client will take a loan from a Russian bank, but the Portuguese bank will allocate money for this. Rates for foreigners are about 4-5%, and for residents there are already offers of 2.8% per annum. In any case, you must have 30-50% of your own funds.

Camara de Lobos

Portugal forever. How to stay live and do business in Madeira

Now there is a lot of news that the Chinese are buying houses in droves in Portugal in order to obtain a residence permit. Have you noticed this in Madeira?

Unfortunately or fortunately, there are few Chinese in Madeira. In mainland Portugal - in Lisbon, Cascais, on the Silver Coast and in the Algarve - there are a lot of them, but they haven't reached us yet. But the Chinese are actively obtaining residence permits in Portugal, along with Russians and people from former colonies in Africa.

- Do the Russians ask you about the "golden visas" of Portugal?

You know they ask. But the paradox is that those who are able to buy real estate in Madeira for €500,000 or €1 million do not set themselves the goal of obtaining a residence permit. Their visa issues have already been resolved. A residence permit is more of interest to those who have budgets of €200 thousand - and they also have a chance to get it, however, not under an accelerated program, but under a standard program.

picturesque serpentine

- How interesting is the purchase of commercial real estate in Madeira and business immigration to Portugal?

In Madeira, for example, there is a free zone (free economic zone), that is, a territory of preferential taxation: income tax is only 5%. Within the zone, the so-called. "screwdriver production", this is when components are imported from abroad, and here they assemble and stick the inscription Made in Portugal. At the same time, products are exempt from a number of duties and have free access to European markets.

Another interesting direction for investments - hotel business. The Madeira market is currently oversaturated with five-star hotels, but three-star hotels are in trouble. This is an uncultivated field for local and foreign investors. Three-star hotels in Madeira by the sea are almost nonsense in general, there are literally 3-4 of them, and all are constantly 90% full.

Statue of the Sacred Heart of Christ

- What can interest foreigners in Madeira, besides the sun and the sea?

Madeira is a great place for lovers of ecotourism, hiking along the famous levada irrigation canals, diving, surfing, hang gliding, boat trips, cycling tours, etc. Cristiano Ronaldo and Zenit player Danny, who, by the way, fulfills the mission of Madeira wine ambassador in Russia, are also Madeira's calling cards. An interactive museum of Ronaldo was recently opened: there is a wax figure of him, many prizes and awards, including two golden balls. Visitors can even take an interactive photo as if holding a golden ball in their hands. Entrance costs €5.

You can get to Madeira without any problems and at any time of the year. True, there are direct flights from Russia only in summer, but you can always take the daily plane Moscow - Lisbon, and then along the Lisbon - Funchal route, where planes fly almost every hour. Recently, a direct flight St. Petersburg - Lisbon has been opened. Although with an extra transfer, for example, in Amsterdam or Rome, sometimes it turns out cheaper.

- The conditions for starting your own business in Portugal are easier than in other European countries.
- Thanks to the mild climate, property management does not require high costs. In addition, you can save on taxes for maintaining a house by installing solar panels on it.
- Prices for local products are significantly lower than in Russia, and the quality is incomparably higher.

Dreams and reality

- Alexey, Portugal is a rather unusual choice for a Russian buyer who prefers Bulgaria or Spain. Why did you choose this particular country? And why did you choose Madeira and not the mainland?

To begin with, initially I selected a country in which you can easily open your own business. The conditions for registering your business in Portugal turned out to be much easier than in other countries. Having chosen a country for business, I have already begun to choose a place to live and the property itself. As a result, my friend and I bought a house in Funchal.

Madeira was also not chosen by chance. The fact is that for my business it is important that there is a constant flow of tourists. Let me explain: my company is engaged in art, design, interior design and designer jewelry. I expect a great demand from travelers from all over the world. In addition, Madeira has a better climate than the mainland. Accordingly, it is more suitable for a comfortable stay.

-What is Funchal? What can you do there?

Funchal - small beautiful city XV-XVI centuries, with exquisite architecture and extraordinary nature. Located right by the ocean. Everything we need is here - pleasant nature, mild climate, variety of plants. For business, as I said, this city is also ideal.

Help site: Funchal - the capital and sea port Madeira. The population of the city is 104 thousand people. It was founded in 1424 during the colonization of the island. Funchal is the birthplace of the best football player in the world in 2008, Cristiano Ronaldo.

- Please describe your house. What are its architectural merit?

This is a one-story house of classical old architecture. It has a hipped tiled roof, windows with shutters, terraces. The building itself is located on a hillside, the windows offer panoramic views directly to the ocean. There is a large garden next to the house. The building is not new, but reconstructed. The house is very cozy inside.

Purchase process

- How did you choose such a miracle?

When we arrived in Madeira, we already had a list of objects that we wanted to see. We knew exactly what it cost. However, it turned out that not all houses are as good as in the photographs. So, for example, in some buildings in Madeira it is simply damp. I could not have imagined this before my trip to the country.
We realized that we needed the help of a professional who knows the local market very well. To our luck, fate brought us together with Olga Grigori, a freelance realtor who works with many local real estate companies. First, she answered our questions via the Internet, and already in Madeira she helped to understand the features of the various areas of Funchal and the cost of housing in them.
For a week we looked at all the options and decided to purchase. However, I had never been to Madeira before this trip.

- In what condition did you find your house when you bought it? It was not new housing, after all.

The house was in excellent condition. Inside, a good repair was made, high-quality plumbing was installed. The previous tenants left us all the furniture and even the utensils. The former owners - the Swedes - before giving the house for our use, made an ideal cleaning in it. We moved from the hotel to our own place, and we didn't even have to clean up.

-How much does it cost you to maintain a house?

For the first five years we are exempt from property tax. And so the annual tax on the house will be € 750 per year. The fact is that in Portugal, houses are divided into categories of energy saving. According to these parameters, the tax is calculated. If solar panels are installed on the house, then the energy saving category of the building will change, and the fee will be lower.

As for utility bills, no one could tell us the exact prices. But according to experts, it is very inexpensive. The only thing I know for sure so far is that gas is bought there in bottles and it is expensive - €27 per bottle.

Life and pastime

- You have already managed to live in your own house for a short time. Have you noticed any differences in the way of life, traditions compared to Russia?

Portugal is like another planet compared to Russia. Everything is different - both the attitude of people, and public transport, which, although expensive, runs well on schedule. Separate garbage collection was a little unusual for us - we had to sign all the containers according to their purpose. I specifically hung the garbage collection schedule at home so as not to forget - some waste is collected on Mondays, some on Wednesdays, and so on. All this must be remembered in order to put a container with a specific type of waste outside on a certain day.

If you take a taxi and you have a heavy suitcase in your hands, the driver will definitely help you put it in the trunk. And at the same time, he will say “thank you”. I have never seen anything like this in Moscow.

- Please tell us about local products. How different are their prices compared to Russia?

Food prices are much lower than in Russia, while the goods themselves are incomparably higher in quality than in our country. For example, olive oil is cheaper, and yet it is completely different. In Portugal, the cheapest oil has a wonderful aroma and delicious taste.

Separately, I will say a few words about the fish. Local markets and supermarkets sell mainly fresh fish, and its assortment is incredibly diverse. By the way, by our standards, it costs a penny. The most expensive fish costs 400 rubles per kilogram. There are also frozen seafood, but they are in low demand.

- Are you going to grow something in your own garden?

Necessarily. Madeira has a subtropical climate in which everything grows well. I would like to plant a big garden. Now there are no, for example, mature fruit trees.

- Are there many foreigners in Funchal? Do Russians live there?

Funchal has a lot of tourists from the most different countries. Among those who buy real estate there, there are many Englishmen. So, for example, our neighbor in the house nearby is from the UK.

There are very few Russians here, mostly tourists. But in our business, we do not rely on the Russians. And for life we do not need a wide circle of communication. So we can live without talking to our compatriots.

- And in terms of language, how few Russians influence your life in Funchal? Is it easy for you to solve everyday issues without resorting to the Russian language?

We speak English. This language is well understood there. In addition, we learn Portuguese. But if, for example, in a supermarket they see that you are a foreigner, they immediately turn to you in English.
It was difficult to establish relationships with government organizations: register water supply, electricity, telephone, Internet in your name, there were questions about registering a company. Our realtor and translator Olga Grigori helped us to solve all these problems. We were satisfied with the result and the price of the services.

Author Olga Davydova

Photos provided by the interlocutor

Find out about holidays in Madeira! We have prepared an overview of the weather and temperature by month, a list of all the beaches and the main attractions of the island.

The climate of Madeira is extremely favorable; in general, it can be described as mild oceanic subtropical. It should be noted that the climate changes from north to south due to the features of the island's topography (high mountains and deep gorges), the influence of two currents (Gulf Stream and Canary), as well as remoteness from land and wind direction.

We will take a closer look at the weather in Madeira by months - we will give the average monthly temperatures and precipitation, and also tell you what to do and what to see during your vacation in Madeira.

Monthly weather in Madeira

March

The temperature in Madeira in March is kept at around +18 °C, the water temperature is also around +18 °C. Mostly the weather is sunny, but there are sometimes cloudy and overcast days. In addition, quite a lot of precipitation falls in March compared to the rest of the spring and summer months, but they are short. It is quite windy in March - the wind speed reaches 7 m/s.

Despite the mild climate of Madeira, it is still too cold to swim and sunbathe in March. The best time to explore this beautiful emerald isle is to climb mountains and descend into gorges.

April

On average, the temperature in April in Madeira is about +20 °C, and the water temperature is about +18.6 °C. Unlike March, the amount of precipitation is much less and there are more sunny days, although cloudy days are not excluded. April, like March, is well suited for excursions and long hikes around the island - spend your holiday in Madeira with health benefits and explore the island. In addition, you can participate in the cultural life of the island - the Flower Festival is held in April - this is how the inhabitants of Madeira celebrate the beginning of spring.

May

As summer approaches, it becomes warmer - in May in Madeira, the average air temperature reaches +21 ° C, the water temperature is approximately + 19.6 ° C. The amount of precipitation is almost minimal - in May, the weather is mostly dry and sunny, with the exception of some cloudy days. In May, it is also good to go on excursions or explore the island on your own - you can see the botanical garden and climb to the crater of the volcano, walk along the old streets of cities or visit fishing villages. Holidays in Madeira can be very diverse - you can always find something to your liking.

(photo © franciscoantunes / flickr.com)

June

The air temperature in Madeira in June averages +23 °C. The water warms up to +21 °C, and in principle you can already swim, but the water temperature is not so comfortable. There is practically no rain in June - this is one of the driest months of the year. This month is perfect for both the beach and active rest in Madeira. In addition, the Atlantic International Fireworks Festival and City Day (June 21) are held in June.

Tip: the high season begins in June - Europeans come here for beach holiday so house prices are skyrocketing. If you want to have a budget holiday in Madeira, it is better to go here during the low season - it starts in November.

July

July in Madeira is the peak of the season, it is one of the hottest months of the year: the temperature reaches +25 °C, and the water is already warm enough for swimming (up to +23 °C). There is little precipitation, but the weather is changeable - there are clouds and cloudy days. July is good because you can combine lying on the beach and swimming with walking around the island on cloudy and overcast days, because it is much easier to climb the mountain when the sun is hidden behind the clouds.

August

The weather in Madeira in August is the same as in July - warm and sunny. The average water and air temperatures are also about the same as in July. There is little rainfall, which allows tourists to enjoy both relaxing on the beach and various excursions and walks - go explore the flora and fauna of the island, because there are many botanical gardens and national parks in the Madeira archipelago.

September

The first half of September in Madeira is considered the velvet season: the air temperature drops slightly (on average +26 °C), but the ocean is still warm - about +24 °C. The amount of precipitation in September increases, which can somewhat overshadow the rest. However, this does not scare tourists - precipitation is still quite rare and short.

At the beginning of September in Madeira "wine season" - the grape harvest begins and the traditional wine festival takes place Festa do Vinho da Madeira, it's time to taste the famous Madeira wine, named after the island.

AT October people hardly swim in Madeira anymore, as the temperature of the water and air drops, a cold wind blows.

(photo © / flickr.com)

Madeira beaches

Beaches in the southwest of Madeira

Piscinas das Salinas - a beach near the Camara de Lobos bay.
Praia do Vigário is a nice pebble beach in Câmara de Lobos bay.
Praia da Fajã do Cabo Girão is an isolated, hidden pebble beach under the cliff of Cabo Girão with no amenities. You can get in either cable car or by sea. It's nice and clean here.
Praia da Fajã dos Padres is another isolated pebbly beach with crystal clear waters. It is located in Quinta Grande, at Cape Girau. You can get there by sea or by lift.
Calhau da Lapa is a great pebble beach under a rock in Campanario. Clean, calm and secluded.
Ribeira Brava - sandy beach (previously pebbly) in the center of the village of the same name. There are many amenities.
Ponta do Sol is a pebbly beach with facilities in a picturesque village.
Madalena do Mar is a well-equipped pebble beach in Madeira.
Calheta is one of the most popular beaches in Madeira. This is an artificial beach with imported golden sand. Facilities, bars, the opportunity to engage in active sports.
The beaches of Jardin do Mar beach, Portinho, Enseada and Vigia are clean pebble beaches with little or no amenities. Here you can "catch a wave" - waves sometimes reach 8 meters.
Paúl do Mar - consists of two pebble beaches. Clear water and amazing scenery. The beaches mainly attract surfers.

(photo © carlosoliveirareis / flickr.com)

Beaches in the southeast of Madeira

Prainha is a sandy black sand beach. There are amenities.
Piscinas do Caniçal - pool complex in the eastern part of Funchal (Caniçal village), access to the sea.
Praia da Ribeira de Natal is a free public pebble beach in Machico.
Praia de Machico is a fully equipped beach with golden sand in Machico. Bars, restaurants, various activities.
Praia das Palmeiras - a beach in Santa Cruz, divided into two parts - the actual pebble beach and pools with sea water.
Praia de sao Fernando is a well-maintained pebble beach in the center of Santa Cruz.
Praia dos Reis Magos is a popular pebble beach near the village of Caniço.
Galomar beach complex - private well-maintained beach complex. You can get on the lift.
Praia da Cana-vieira is a secluded free public beach in Caniço. You can go up the stairs. The beach is not well maintained.
Praia do Garajau - a quiet pebble beach in Caniço, there are amenities. Suitable for diving.

Funchal beaches in Madeira

Barreirinha beach complex - a complex of beaches east of Funchal, near the Old Town.
Praia de São Tiago - located at the yellow fort of Sao Tiago, in the Old Town. Free public beach with amenities.
Praia Formosa is one of the largest free beaches in Madeira. Consists of 4 sandy and pebble beaches.
Lido pool complex is a popular pool complex in Funchal with sea water and access to the sea. Connects to Formosa Beach. Developed infrastructure.
Praia do Gorgulho is a pebble free beach with amenities, located along Lido Street.
Ponta Gorda pool complex - a complex of swimming pools with access to the sea in tourist area Furshal.
Doca do Cavacas is a small complex of natural volcanic pools near Formosa beach, connected to it by a tunnel.

Beaches in the northwest of Madeira

Porto Moniz pools - volcanic pools with sea water. A popular holiday destination in Madeira, the beach is equipped with everything you need.
Ribeira da Janela is a beautiful pebble beach in the north of the island with wonderful views. Popular with surfers, there are amenities. Nearby - camping, parking, you can take a walk along the hiking trails.
Praia da Laje is a quiet and secluded black sand and pebble beach in a bay in Seixal.
Piscinas Naturais do Seixal - natural pools with clean water. This place is located near Praia da Laje.
Praia do Club Naval do Seixal is another black sand beach in Seixal. Large natural pool.
São Vicente - the beach consists of three beaches and is popular with surfers.

Beaches in the northeast of Madeira

Balnear da Ribeira do Faial is a pebble beach with amenities.
Praia da Lagoa Porto da Cruz is an excellent black sand beach, convenient access to the sea. Popular with surfers.

Porto Santo Island

Separately, it is worth mentioning the island of Porto Santo, which is part of the Madeira archipelago. He is known for his 9 km sandy beach with soft golden sand, which mainly attracts tourists, and a varied landscape. Porto Santo beach has a developed infrastructure, you can get there from Funchal by ferry or by plane.

Attractions Madeira

Madeira is primarily famous for its stunning natural landscapes, national parks and botanical gardens with rare plants. Let's make a short list of what you need to see in Madeira during your vacation or independent travel:

Funchal- the capital was once the main trading port of Madeira. What is there to see? Old town, museums and ancient churches with beautiful paintings, gardens and much more. The city is surrounded by mountains and a bay, which in itself makes it picturesque and worthy of attention.
Monte (Monte)- a suburb of Funchal, is considered one of the most popular tourist destinations in Madeira. Visit the ancient palace and tropical garden of the Monte Palace, the 18th century church of Igrea de Monte, the botanical garden and much more. One of the entertainments is to ride the cable car and enjoy the view of the bay.
Machico (Machico)- most Old city and the first capital of Madeira. See the city with its churches and forts, and then drive to Pico do Facho, an old lookout where torches were lit when pirates approached.
Calheta (Kalheta) is also a popular town with tourists. Apart from two sandy beaches with golden sand, there are many ancient sights, since it was from here that the active development of the island began (the village was founded in 1430). There are many churches here, an interesting art center on the rock, where exhibitions are held.
Ponta do Sol- a beautiful and secluded village located in the sunniest part of the island.
Pico do Arieiro will be of interest to lovers of hiking and climbing. This mountain is the third highest in Madeira (1818 meters). The views from the mountain are amazing! It is also worth climbing Pico das Torres (1850 m) and Pico Ruivo (1862 m) - the most high point Madeira.
Santana- a cute town in the north-west of Madeira, where the traditional triangular houses of the local population have been preserved since the 16th century.
Camara de Lobos- an extremely picturesque fishing village.
Village of Prazeres- one of the most beautiful villages in Madeira. There is a small zoo, you can walk along the hiking trails.
Ponta de São Lourenço known for its natural black sand beach, stunning panoramic views of the Atlantic and unusual volcanic formations.
Arco de Sao Jorge- another picturesque village by the sea surrounded by high mountains and vineyards. There is a rose garden with a huge collection of roses - Quinta do Arko Rosarium.
For lovers of peace and solitude, we recommend visiting the village Boaventura- Peace of mind is provided to you.

Madeira island on the world map

Madeira is an archipelago of volcanic origin, located in the middle of the waters of the Atlantic Ocean, 700 km from the northwestern coast of Africa and 450 km north of. Madeira is also the name of the main island of the archipelago. The islands belong to Portugal.

In essence, in Madeira, every city / village is a landmark, so it is difficult to list them all. Fly to Madeira and explore!

- a mild climate, picturesque nature, gourmet cuisine and wines, as well as the largest New Year's fireworks in the world. More than 1,000,000 tourists visit the elite resort every year. As a result, real estate in Madeira is expensive, but the choice of investment opportunities is quite attractive.

Geography and more

The Portuguese island of Madeira is located in the North Atlantic Ocean and was discovered in the 15th century, despite the fact that the island appeared on the maps in the 14th century. Madeira is located just 400 kilometers from canary islands, 500 kilometers from Africa and 1000 kilometers from Portugal. by the most major city and the administrative center is Funchal. It is also considered the main harbor and a significant transit point. Length coastline islands - 150 kilometers.

Why Madeira?

One of the main features of the island is its mild climate, the average temperature of the hottest and coldest months differs by only 6 degrees. The annual average is 18.5 degrees above zero. Madeira is great for windsurfing, diving and hiking, with over 1,000 kilometers of trails hiking trails. The cost of living on the island is an order of magnitude lower than in Europe, while the education and healthcare systems are well developed.

As a popular tourist resort, the island became known in the 19th century; such famous personalities as Winston Churchill, Charlie Chaplin and Gregory Peck rested here at one time. The life of the modern island is inextricably linked with tourism. The infrastructure is constantly developing, new transport interchanges and trade networks appear regularly.

Madeira boasts a picturesque landscape, lush vegetation and the cleanest sea. The island has beaches for every taste, both with pure white sand and black volcanic. The main tourist destination is proud Funchal, whose main attractions are gardens, restaurants, a market and a cathedral (16th century).

Madeira gastronomic

As on any other island, Madeira's main dish is fish, with swordfish, blue marlin, tuna and wahoo being popular. One of the most common side dishes for fish are fried bananas. Also, restaurants often serve beef marinated in red wine. Undoubtedly, the presence of different types of fruits and vegetables will please.

Madeira winemaking

Madeira has long been famous for its traditional wines. The island's winemaking process is unique as it involves heating and special oxidation of the wine. This technology is also used to produce wines in the Crimea and California, giving them the name Madeira, despite the fact that such a name can be worn by wines produced exclusively on the island. In addition to fine wines, Madeira is famous for its brewing, liquor and brandy production.

How to get there

16 kilometers from the administrative center of the island is international Airport. Previously, it was possible to reach the island by ferry from the port of Portimão, but due to the high cost of tickets and unpopularity, the ferry service was closed.

The situation in the real estate market

In recent years, the situation on the real estate market in all regions of Portugal has been quite unstable. Over the past year, prices have increased by an average of 1.81%, but in the city of Funchal they have decreased by 3%. The average cost of a square meter in the capital is €1270, the average cost in the island is €1182. The most expensive housing starts from €1816 and the cheapest one starts from €944.

Madeira Island is a world-famous resort with a developed infrastructure, so the purchase of real estate here is a profitable investment decision. It also has a low crime rate and an affordable standard of living. Moreover, the purchase of real estate implies the right to obtain a multi-visa or residence permit (5 years). Many experts say that Madeira, like its wines, only gets better with age.

We travel the world. Madeira Island - the pearl of the Atlantic

There are places on our planet where you want to settle forever and live your whole life without leaving these blessed places.

And it doesn’t matter if you were there or not, the main thing is that you know that such a place exists.

One of these places is the island of Madeira, which, although it belongs to Portugal, has autonomy, its own anthem and is closer to Africa than to Europe.

An amazing little island lost in the Atlantic Ocean. Island of eternal spring. An island where there are no problems - at least that's what the locals say.

An island to which you want to return again and again. Madeira is located 1000 km southwest of Lisbon and 700 km from the coast of Africa, due to which the island has approximately the same air temperature (19 degrees in winter and 22-25 in summer) and water (18-24) all year round.

Neither the vagaries of the weather, nor fashion trends, nor even fire have power over Madeira! In 1420, having moored to the local rocks, the Portuguese navigator João Gonçalves Zarco was delighted with the abundance of lush vegetation.

The island was called "Madeira" - "forest", "wooded". But, having made an attempt to get through the lush thickets, the discoverers failed and in retaliation set fire to the paradise island.

The fire engulfed Madeira for more than seven years, destroying the entire island to the last bush. And suddenly, having changed his mind about returning to Portugal, Zarka returned to the ruined land, deciding to settle here. And this time forever. Since then, the island of Madeira has retained the status of "autonomy" and its own governor.

Ashes, preserved after the fire, with a unique interaction with volcanic rocks of the soil, turned out to be an extremely favorable condition for restoring the former splendor of the island.

The scorched areas were gradually planted with all sorts of plants and crops, even the most exotic, brought or ordered from the most unexpected corners of the planet.

And to everyone's surprise, everything worked out! And Madeira gradually turned into a real botanical garden "under the open sky". The special pride of the modern island is the flowers, all year round pleasing to the eye with a riot of colors and incredible shapes and sizes. Kala and bougainvillea, hydrangeas and magnolias, azaleas and strelitzia - what is not here!

Two hundred years ago, this island in the north of the Atlantic was considered part of the fabulously beautiful Atlantis that miraculously survived.

I just want to say in Yesenin's words - only the blue sucks his eyes!

This is the view that opens when you stand on the edge of a completely sheer cliff of the top of Eira do Serrada, which is a little over a kilometer high. When it's so high, it's not even scary anymore: it's like flying on an airplane. Consciousness refuses to believe in the reality of what you see. It seems to take a step forward and... you will fly... like in a movie!

When you look at human habitation, scattered in the most incredible places on earth, you never cease to be surprised at how many of us there are. And everywhere life flows under the roof of your house, with its joys, anxieties, happiness and pain. And all of us on this earth are important, unique and inimitable... People have penetrated everywhere, even on this small island, lost in the Atlantic Ocean. Moreover, they climbed these mountains, nestling on the rocks. And to each his own house is dear and loved.

Although European (Western culture) believes that the island was discovered by the Portuguese, the Finnicians visited the island long before them. It is strange that Madeira was uninhabited right up to the Portuguese, because Macaronesia or the Islands of the Blessed were known, according to the Phoenicians, even to the ancient Greeks. Here, after all, exceptionally fertile soil, a lot fresh water plus an ideal climate, so that today the already very high population density is doubled by tourists.

Madeira is amazingly diverse. Alternating forested mountains and lush valleys offer breathtaking views. Bananas grow here right on the streets of the city, and the variety of flowering plants of various colors and shapes cannot but surprise. Orchids, calas, bougainvilleas, hydrangeas, magnolias and azaleas bloom here at any time of the year.

Funchal is the capital of Madeira.

Here you will find ancient monasteries, Moorish-style palaces, unique museums, and even an excellent market for local, but at the same time very exotic fruits. Every tourist who has visited the island of Madeira knows that it is best to buy a real Madeira as a gift in Funchal - in a shop at the Franciscan Monastery.

The island is harvested 4 times a year. And of course, some harvest is better, some worse.

A typical "home garden" in Madeira. Bananas grow like potatoes...

In the best harvest, Cristiano Ronaldo, the world famous young football genius, was born on this island. This information was for boys.

Now for girls

Orchids, magnolias, hydrangeas bloom here all year round. All in all a very romantic place.

There are absolutely no predators, no poisonous snakes, or even banal mosquitoes on the island. The most terrible animal in the picturesque forests of Madeira is a hare. Therefore, birds of prey are groomed and cherished here (you understand: give free rein to hares - they will clear the island of vegetation better than the first governor). Therefore, fans of hunting can be sure that they are provided with fresh hare for dinner.

The only thing that may be lacking in Madeira is the gently sloping sandy shores. local beaches quite specific - small in area, stony and leaving immediately to a decent depth.

The local tropical botanical garden is a little paradise on this earth...

Nature and art, merging in perfect harmony, fascinate with numerous paths, beckoning into the depths of shady romantic corners, where you can enjoy the singing of birds that create an atmosphere of complete satisfaction and peace.

Road to sky! What a beauty, breathtaking!

And below the inhabitants are swarming ...

..and hardly anyone often lifts his head up

The rhythm of life on the island is unhurried, peaceful. Here, all the worries brought to the island from across the ocean disappear, are carried away by the salty breeze to unknown distances. Here you can stay forever and live on an island lost in the ocean among lush greenery, rocks, sun and wine. But even if you get back on board the liner and go away, the island does not want to say goodbye. Better - "goodbye."

Because, once having been here, you will definitely want to return to Madeira again and again.

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