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Madeira, the tropical exuberance of the Atlantic Ocean Come and sample this feast of breathtaking sheer cliffs overlooking the sea.

Let yourself succumb to the charms of Madeira it is not difficult. First, there's the islands exceptional climate, with its mild temperatures all year round (between 16ºC and 25ºC) and its exuberant natural features and tropical vegetation, in which flowers and fruit have been turned into a genuine cult. Then there's their rich historical heritage and luxury hotel - attractions enough to satisfy even the most demanding of tourists.

First discovered by the Portuguese navigator João Gonçalves Zarco, this beautiful island, 700 km from Casablanca and 900 km from Lisbon, soon became a major port of call for the caravels ploughing the waves on their way to the distant lands of the Far East.

Come and sample this feast of breathtaking beauty : sheer cliffs overlooking the sea, natural swimming-pools carved out of the rocks, high mountains swathed in mist, narrow footpaths running alongside the “levadas” or irrigation channels, offering the visitor the possibility of countryside walks in the midst of the most extraordinary landscape.

As soon as you arrive in Funchal, the islands capital, you will probably find yourself bumping into all kinds of famous people, for this is traditionally one of their favourite spots for a relaxing holiday. Overlooking a wide and sheltered bay, the city successfully blends together its special vocation as a tourist resort and its ability to provide all kinds of cultural events that testify to its history, amongst which one of the special highlights is its colourful festivals.

You will also certainly enjoy the traditional embroidery and basketwork, revealing the great talent and skilled hands of the islands inhabitants, who have produced some truly genuine works of art. Not forgetting the famous fortified “Madeira” wine, which for more than four hundred years has spread the name and flavour of the island all round the world.

It is well worth taking the time to extend your visit a little further to the north east so that you can discover the island of Porto Santo, roughly 40 km away. Although this is much flatter than its “mother-island”, there is a wonderfully extensive beach waiting for you here, with sands that are famous for their great therapeutic properties. At Vila Baleira, the islands picturesque capital, you must make sure to visit the house where Christopher Columbus once lived.