Cheap Car Rental Madeira

Madeira Island is located about 600 miles off the shores of Lisbon and together with the neighboring islands of Porto Santo and the Ilhas Desertas and Ilhas Selvagens makes up the autonomous province of the same name.

This island in the Atlantic Ocean is a true paradise, famous for its beautiful vegetation. Preserving this is of utmost importance to the Flower Island, and whilst driving around you will see white lilies and other beauties on the edge of the road. This is not a party island with noisy nightlife and stylish beach clubs, Madeira is all about the natural perfection and relaxation that comes with the formidable quiet. Famous people in history like Winston Churchill and Princess Elizabeth “Sissi” of Austria new of this and came to the island to cure their health problems.

Another popular holiday theme which is notably absent is white sandy beaches. Madeira is of volcanic origin and only has a handful artificial bathing beaches. Still, water sports like surfing, scuba diving and snorkeling are extremely popular, since the underwater world is almost as colorful as the island.
Anyone steady on their feet should explore the environment on a long hike. Guided tours for all kinds of fitness levels are available almost everywhere, whether it is climbing the Pico Ruivo, at 6,000 feet the highest peak, or leisurely strolling along the Levadas, old irrigation plants originally designed to feed the dry south with water from the rainy north.

Apart from natural treasures there is more to see on the island. Funchal, the capital with a population of about 105,000 and surrounded by rugged, green mountains, has a number of museum, sacral buildings like the 15th century Sé Cathedral, and picturesque parks. Just north of Funchal you will find Monte, famous for the church win which King Karl I. of Austria-Hungary is buried.
The lighthouse of Ponta do Pargo on the western tip of Madeira is a popular photo motif, and a visit to the volcanology center on the shores of São Vicente, close to volcanic caves, will help you understand the fabulous scenery around you.
All these destinations are easily reachable by car. While you have rented one we recommend a day of simply driving around without a set destination – sometimes you come across the most memorable places when not looking for anything at all.

Do not forget to also explore the culinary world of Madeira. Regional delicacies like Espada, a seafood dish, or Espetada, a 3 foot-long meat skewer, are served with Poncha, the regional drink made of sugar cane liquor, honey, orange and lemon juice.

Madeira is an ideal holiday destination, especially for outdoor fans and families. The breath-taking scenery and mild climate guarantee the highest possible level of relaxation and memories of natural splendor.