Madeira is probably the most beautiful island in Europe and is know as the "Pearl of the Atlantic" or the "Floating Garden" along with many other names dreamt up along the centuries. It boasts a truly amazing all-round climate, with a huge variety of trees, shrubs, bushes and of course an endless supply of flowers. The Laurisilva forest in Madeira is one of the largest in the world, covering 22,000 hectares and is a truly wonderful place to be in the peace and quite of nature, where you can walk along the unique irrigation channels, the LEVADAS.

Not only does Madeira boast a fantastic climate all year round, which is why it is so popular with the holiday-maker escaping the harsher weathers of home, it is also virtually crime-free making it one of the safest tourist destinations in the world.

Madeira is a fascinating ecological reserve, with two thirds of the island being protected. There is so much to see and do on Madeira you'll want to keep coming back for more. From historical monuments, streets and squares in Funchal, to dozens of beautiful gardens and parks overflowing with flowers; natural beaches, rugged coastlines and caves and not forgetting the breathtaking views and stunning walks along the levadas that run down from the mountains to the coastlines.

There are also many events going on throughout the year, starting with the Carnival in February, followed by the Flower Festival two weeks after Easter (March/April) . The whole month of June brings the Atlantic Festival which combines entertainment and culture, performances by Philharmonic Bands and the International fireworks competition, where a display is held every Saturday evening In June.

 The summer brings festivals to all the villages, with plenty of food and drink to go round. Then we have the Wine Festival at the beginning of September and the Chestnut Festival in November. At the end of November and beginning of December, Funchal and all the smaller cities and villages become drowned in Christmas lights, which is something to be seen and you will never forget.
 
 At the end of the year on New Year’s Eve, Funchal becomes a haven for tourists. With between 8-12 cruise liners in the bay and the hotels at bursting point, the City gives the largest fireworks display in the world. With over 17 tons of fireworks, amounting to over 90,000 individual fireworks, launching from 40 different areas of Funchal, it is a sight not to be missed and tourists come back time and time again to see it and to join in the atmosphere.