For many years one could only get to Madeira Islands by boat, that is why our harbour in Funchal was so developed in the 19th century.

But with the evolution of the aeronautical industry Madeira, as a tourism destination had to face the limitations imposed by the reveal and build an airport.

The History of Aviation in Madeira Archipelago starts in 1921, after the Second World War, when the first hydroplane alighted on water on the 22nd of March.

On 1957 the first experience took place in Santa Catarina runway, but only in 1964 Madeira airport started to operate with 1,6 km long. In the year 2000 Madeira Airport has almost doubled its runway length to 2,8 km, gaining space over the sea in such a major work of engineering that in 2004 was recognized with the World Award of Structural Engineering.

Contrary to what many people say and despite of some unusual weather conditions, Madeira has a safe airport.

Photo by Catarina Fagundes

Paul do Mar is a small village in Calheta district that stands on a landslip at the foot of high cliffs. Some years ago, this was the second most important fishing village of Madeira archipelago and now fishing and agriculture are still the most important incomes for these 900 habitants.

Grown close to the sea, Paul do Mar is known by its small houses that were built around one road, 10 meters away from the rocky beach, parallel to the coast, all close to one and others, starting on a small alley that enlarges to a new road.

Paul do Mar, since late 90s is also known by its right, fast and powerful waves, perfect for experienced surfers, as the bottom of the sea is very rocky.

Photos by Catarina Fagundes

Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers market) is one of the most visited places in Funchal, where tourists and residents look for fish, vegetables and fruits produced in Madeira, some of them with very exotic flavours. One can also find flowers, handicraft and wine shops in this market place.

The market building was designed in the 30’s by the architect Edmundo Tavares and its first public opening was on the 24th of November 1940. Mercado dos Lavradores was an interesting construction that occurred on an urban renovation period of Funchal.

This presents a very animated scene, especially early in the morning when a large variety of local fish can be seen.

Photos by Catarina Fagundes

Penha d’Águia, which means Eagle Rock, is the headland that splits waters descending the mountain towards the sea. Some of these waters go to Faial’s bay and others go to Porto da Cruz.

This noble isolated cliff, with 1915 feet, requires a stiff climbing but after one is up there the view rewards every efforts with the sight of the highest peaks of Madeira, Ruivo, Torres and Arieiro. This sight is like the reverse of what you see in Balcões – Ribeiro Frio.

Photos by Catarina Fagundes

Arriving to Caniçal, a 9km long by 2km wide peninsula is presented to you, this is Ponta de São Lourenço, the less mountainous and most arid part of Madeira island.

The fishing center of Caniçal, with almost 4 thousand habitants, is situated on the widest part of the peninsula. On this village houses are all close to one and others, only leaving space for small sinuous roads or lanes.

Near to the fishermen houses there is the Madeira Free Tax Industrial Complex, still with some lots available for companies. Added to this industrial area there is the new commercial harbour of Caniçal, that lodges all facilities for cargo ships, and that made the port of Funchal available to port only cruise ships.

Photos by Catarina Fagundes