Nothing beats discovering a destination with the guidance of someone who truly knows it. These are the people who know where to enjoy the best of a city in peace, which viewpoints leave a lasting impression, and where to find the most authentic flavors.
That’s precisely why we asked André Castro, a member of our Onboarding team in Madeira since 2019 and a Madeiran since 1997, to share his perspective on the island. The result is a brief post that includes tips on how to explore Madeira, combining iconic places with lesser-known spots where authenticity still feels natural.
Madeira, Seen by Those Who Live Here
Before delving into itineraries or lists of must-see places, we wanted to understand what comes to mind when someone who lives on the island thinks of Madeira. When we asked André what image comes to mind when he thinks of Madeira — not the touristy version, but the personal one — his answer was simple:
André Castro: “The constant presence of the ocean. In many parts of the island, you only need to lift your eyes to see the blue horizon. This permanent connection to the sea defines the experience for anyone who decides to visit Madeira.”
If the question is where to go to completely disconnect, the answer is higher up (literally). Paúl da Serra, one of the island’s plateaus, is often the chosen refuge. Open roads, wide landscapes, and sometimes even the absence of mobile signal create the perfect environment to slow down.
An Island of Contrasts
Explaining Madeira to someone who has never been there is not easy. Yet, there is an idea that helps summarize the experience: sea, mountains, forests, and cliffs coexist side by side. For anyone deciding to visit Madeira, this diversity is an essential part of the trip. In a single day, it’s possible to go from trails surrounded by dense vegetation to viewpoints overlooking the Atlantic.
Hidden Gems
Although Madeira is a well-explored destination, there are still places that escape many itineraries.
One such place is Achadas da Cruz, on the island’s northern coast. This area is known for its cable car that descends to the fajã, crossing a steep slope with impressive ocean views. Perhaps because of its distance or the limited time of many visitors, it tends to be a less-frequented spot.
Another spot that deserves more attention is the Miradouro do Massapez. Often overlooked in favor of more famous viewpoints, it offers a wide perspective of the northern coast: simple, peaceful, and surprising.
Walk, Get Lost, and Discover
One of the best ways to get to know Madeira is simply by walking. The island is full of levadas, trails, and secondary roads that reveal unexpected landscapes.
For those who enjoy exploring without a set destination, the northern area — especially Boaventura — is an excellent starting point. There, the pace slows naturally, and the landscape maintains a more rural and tranquil vibe.
Among the recommended trails is Levada da Fajã do Rodrigues (PR16), a route known for its lush vegetation and tunnels carved into the rock. Walking along these levadas is one of the most memorable experiences for anyone visiting Madeira.
And there are still places where time seems to stand still. Madalena do Mar is one of those examples — a small coastal village where the calm atmosphere invites you to stay a little longer.
Eat Like a Local
Getting to know a destination also happens at the table. And often, the best restaurants are not necessarily the most famous. When we asked André where to go for a truly local meal, the answer came quickly:
André Castro: “The restaurant A Fronteira, in Boaventura. A simple, family-friendly place, faithful to Madeira’s tradition. They serve typical dishes like espetada, with bolo do caco, potatoes, and salad. Authentic, good-quality food, all prepared without hurry.”
Another spot mentioned was Papa Manuel Pizzeria, a place frequented for years, known for its laid-back atmosphere.
These are examples of spaces that show how cuisine is also part of the experience for anyone visiting Madeira.
Beyond the Center
While Funchal concentrates much of the activity, Madeira truly reveals itself when you explore beyond the center.
Some corners remain relatively discreet, such as Poça dos Chefes, in Curral das Freiras. A less-visited location, surrounded by mountainous landscapes, perfect for those seeking peace and quiet.
Exploring these little detours helps you better understand the island’s diversity.
Tips from a local
There are also common mistakes made by first-time visitors to Madeira.
One of them is choosing a car that’s not powerful enough to drive on the island’s steep roads. Another is underestimating poncha, the traditional Madeiran drink, which, despite its refreshing taste, can surprise.
To avoid making too many mistakes when visiting Madeira, we asked André, if a friend of his were to visit the island for the first time, what would he do on a perfect day?
André Castro: “If the goal is to visit Madeira in a single day, the recommendation is simple: take a tour of the island, stop at the most important places, try the local food, and leave space to visit the amazing viewpoints Madeira has to offer, such as Miradouro da Eira da Achada or Miradouro de São Cristovão in Boaventura.”
The Essence of the Island
To finish, we asked André to imagine Madeira as a person and describe it. His answer was curious: someone dynamic, full of energy, and with mood swings — a clear reference to the island’s unpredictable weather.
And what would he want visitors to take away from the island?
More than photographs, the Madeiran spirit of hospitality. The local culture, food, customs, and the way the island welcomes those who arrive.
Discover Madeira with LovelyStay
isiting a destination with time and curiosity makes all the difference. And when your accommodation is in the right place, everything becomes simpler.
If you’re planning to visit Madeira, explore the available LovelyStay properties and find the perfect place to explore the island at your own pace.