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The picturesque island of Madeira was discovered in the 15th century and has long been a popular holiday destination among people who are searching for intense natural beauty. There is an excellent range of cruise deals to Madeira available right now, which allows holidaymakers to save money to this idyllic cruise destination in Madeira.

The settlement of Funchal lies on the southeast coast of Madeira and boasts an excellent range of amenities, making it a popular place to use as a base while visiting Madeira island. There are plenty of luxurious hotels to be found here, which can be snapped out for a song during the low season. In addition to a wide range of excellent restaurants, shops and bars, Funchal also features a number of interesting attractions, such as the 15th century Cathedral, Santa Maria Maior and the stunning 17th century church “Igreja do Carmo”.

Exploring the Mercado dos Lavradores market in Funchal is a great way to get a feel for local life. People who are able to rise early will be rewarded by the sight of colourful flower sellers, local terrace farmers and fishermen, who all gather together at this marketplace to sell their wares.

Funchal also makes a good base for exploring other nearby destinations. People who want to sample Madeira Wine can do so in the many Wine Lodges in Funchal as well as head on over to the vineyards at Estreito de Camara dos Lobos, where they will have the chance to sample this locally produced tipple. There are many different types of Madeira wine that are just waiting to be tried, and people who have a sweet tooth are sure to enjoy sipping a glass or two of Malmsey or Bual, while Sercial wine is refreshingly dry.

Aside from its wine, Madeira is also famous for its sled rides. The sleds of Madeira are traditionally made from wicker and are driven by a pair of drivers. Twenty minute long sled rides are offered in the Funchal suburb of Monte, which is covered with cobble stones, ensuring that visitors receive a bumpy and exciting ride.

The island of Madeira is just 56 kilometres along and 21 kilometres wide, making it easy to explore for people who have their own transportation. There are 200 kilometres of coastline that are ideal for driving along, and the winding roads are marked with plenty of scenic viewpoints where motorists can stop and take in the scenery.

Another great fireworks show in Madeira to welcome the New Year – 2013

If you enjoy fireworks and can´t wait until the next New Year,  join us in June for the Atlantic Festival with fireworks every Saturday and book you next New Year holidays in Madeira as soon as possible!

In Madeira, walk with Nature Meetings.

Considered by many as one of the best locations to see the New Year fireworks in Madeira. There are still a limited number of places left with some of our partners.

Meeting point is Funchal Marina, finger C by the Mermaid Statue at 23h10 before setting off in 12 seater sea rib speed boats, considered as one of the safest boats, with experienced skipper at the helm!

You are welcome to brink your own plastic glasses and drinks to celebrate the New Year!

Prices start at € 48 per person / reservation required – contact for further information and reservation.

We shared “Where to find the best of everything, worldwide” by CBS News travel editor Peter Greenberg back in June 2012, regarding the upcoming New Year fireworks in Madeira and thought we should share this video with you … just in case you are still wondering if you should join us!

Check out flights and hotels offers and after recovering, join us on a walk form the 2nd January 2013.

– Nature Meetings. In Madeira, walk with us.

“Associação dos Amigos do Parque Ecológico” is an N.G.O. which undertakes reforestation activities in Madeira and whom Nature Meetings sponsors as part of our social responsibility.

On the 8th December 2012 there is an outing between Ribeiro Frio and Santo da Serra including a visit to Quinta do Santo da Serra.

Interested parties should register on the Association ´s website or via e-mail amigosdoparque@gmail.com until 7 December until 15h00 – this post is a little late, but worth making the contact!

On the 15th December there is also a planting event which anyone can participate too.

– Nature Meetings. In Madeira, walk with us.

The “SRA – Regional Secretariat for the Environment and Natural Resources”, informs in a statement dated 13 November 2012 that the following walks Recommended Walking Routes are temporarily closed:

– Madeira:
• PR 1 – Vereda do Areeiro (Pico do Areeiro – Pico Ruivo)
This walk is still open through the tunnel
• PR 3 – Vereda do Burro (Pico do Areeiro – Ribeira das Cales)
• PR 3.1 – Caminho Real do Monte (Ribeira das Cales – Monte)
• PR 4 -Levada do Barreiro (Poço da Neve – Casa do Barreiro)
• PR 14 – Levada dos Cedros ( Fanal – Curral Falso)
• PR 17 – Caminho do Pináculo e Folhadal (Lombo do Mouro – Caramujo – Folhadal – Encumeada)

– Porto Santo:
• Vereda do Calhau (Fonte da Areia – Calhau)

More information is available through the Oficial Madeira Tourism Board website under trekking/Notice to Walkers.

Please do not hesitate to contact Nature Meetings should you have any doubts about Walking in Madeira.

– Nature Meetings. In Madeira, walk with us.

Over seven days the 15th Madeira International Bridge Open 2012 will be held  over 5th – 11th November 2012, with a total prize money of € 18,000.

Various teams will try their hand at this tournament – for more information visit Madeira International Bridge Open 2012.

For your outdoor activities, including walking, whale and dolphin watching, jeep tours, diving, canyoning and much more – visit Nature Meetings.

– Nature Meetings. In Madeira, Walk with us.