Attractions
The Roman Walls of Faro – These ancient walls protect the old part of the city and make for an eye-catching couple of holiday snaps. Inside, it is worth finding the open square where a 13th Century cathedral stands.
Nossa Senhora do Carmo – The “golden” church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo is one of the best examples of gold-leaf woodwork in southern Portugal but also has a macabre appeal, using the bones of 1,200 monks!
Golf Courses of Lago and Lobo – Not far from Faro, these two holiday resorts offer everything for people arriving on cheap flights to Portugal. One of their most popular features are the seven top-quality golf courses and tennis courts.
Sacred Art Museum – This museum in Funchal, Madeira is one for the culture vultures. It houses a wealthy array of Flemish paintings, religious sculptures and gold pieces, dating from the 16th-18th centuries. It is open daily (except Mondays) too.
Old Blandy’s Wine Lodge – This is a great place to learn about Madeira wine, which is famed the world over, and even sample some of the bottles. A guided 40 minute tour takes you around the lodge and talks about its history all before the popular tasting period at the end.
Sao Vicente Caves and Volcano Centre – At the Sao Vicente Caves, explorers can pay to take a 30 minute tour to discover the volcanic beginnings of Madeira. Such begins are often overlooked but this tour shows you lava lakes and crystalline lakes.
Events
Madeira Carnival – Every February, the Madeira Carnival takes place. It is held in the capital of Funchal and transforms the whole town into a rainbow of colours and music. The first Saturday of the month is traditionally the opening ceremony. Events and parties run well into the night on each day with the celebrations culminating in a Shrove Tuesday extravaganza. All of this and it’s free to attend!
The Feast of Nossa Senhora do Monte – This is one of the best food based festivals on the island. All manner of foods encompassing a vast array of tastes are available and parties continue deep into the night. The following day is a public holiday so everyone enjoys a much-needed lie-in before religious activities ensue.
Algarve World Cup – The PGA European tour makes a visit to the Algarve. With some of the world’s best golf players on hand and the most stunning courses this is a must for all golf fans!
Algarve International Film Festival – Based in Portimão, this is Portugal’s oldest cinema event, dating back to 1972. Every May it is a great opportunity to learn more about the offerings of local productions.