Machico
Machico, Madeira
As the landing point for the discoverers of Madeira in the 15th century, the town of Machico boasts a rich history. It’s home to Capela dos Milagres—one of the island’s oldest churches, the historic fortresses of São João Baptista and Nossa Senhora do Amparo; and a beach that’s backed by a fountain-flanked promenade.
The majority of tours that explore the east of Madeira make a stop at Machico—where you usually have free time to relax on Praia de Machico, wander among whitewashed houses, and enjoy panoramic views from the town’s forts. These excursions allow you to skip the hassle of car hire and navigation, and typically also cover eastern highlights such as Portela Viewpoint (Miradouro da Portela); the village of Santan, famous for its triangular thatched houses; and Pico do Arieiro, the island’s third-highest peak.
- Machico is the start point for several levada walks; if you’re planning on embarking on a hike, ensure that you’re wearing sturdy shoes and take a rain jacket.
- At Machico’s fishing harbor, you’ll find plenty of restaurants that offer freshly-caught seafood.
- There are several guesthouses in Machico that offer midrange accommodation—during the peak summer season, advance booking is essential.
From the island capital of Funchal, Machico is a 30-minute drive via the VR1 road. You can also take the #56 or #103 bus from the cable car terminal in Funchal, which drops you right in the center of the town.
In general, the weather in Madeira is sunny and dry throughout the year. However, the best time to visit the island is in May or June—before the European summer holidays see a surge in visitors—and when temperatures are still cool enough to enjoy hiking opportunities.
The eastern side of Madeira is home to a handful of charming villages. Top picks include Camacha, a hilltop village that’s famous for its basket weaving and furniture—more than 1,000 articles are exhibited in the town museum. Another must-visit place is Santana, where brightly-colored houses have distinctive thatched roofs. The village is also famous for its parish church, which dates back to the 17th century.
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