by Nicky W. Small

Created on: July 14, 2009

Funchal

The capital of Madeira is located in the south coast of the island enclosed by mountains like a natural amphitheatre. With its buzzing harbour, promenade by the sea, and delightful restaurants, bars is a good base for a holiday on the island.

The main square, the mosaic-paved Praca do Municipio is one of the prettiest places in the town. The town hall which was built in 1758 stands on the east side of the square, and there is a 17thcentury church with its azulejos inside on the other side. There are few beautiful tulip trees on the corners of the square and couple of cafes are offering rest for the sightseer on the sides. It is worth to wander along the streets to get a taste for the town. The streets are full of life all year round as the moderate climate is attracting many tourists. The tables of restaurants and cafes take one third of the promenades and the air is filled with the music of different languages. Big cruising ships stop in the harbour to spend a night or two in this magical town. Probably, sometimes the number of tourists is higher than locals on the streets.

Beautiful gardens and parks offer a great place for a walk. The city's main park is the Jardim de Santa Catarina, laid out between 1945 and 1966 on higher level, several steps lead from the seafront to the entrance, or alternatively a walk uphill on the other side of the park. There is a stunning view to the sea and over the city from the park. A network of paths runs along the park, offering a great opportunity for an afternoon walk among wonderful flowers and trees.

The Jardins Tropicains is located on the Monte, a hilltop town which is overlooking the city from 550m above sea level. The garden has great a collection of tropical plants from South Africa and Europe. Fountains and statues are making the place more attractive. Visitors can get to the Monte by cable car from the seafront or by bus. For the more adventurous; there is a levada, which begins on the outskirts of Funchal. The levada is a small water channel built to bring the water from the mountains to the plantations. The levada system with walking paths runs across the island bringing hikers from many countries. To walk up to the Monte by the levada is a good warm up for the visitor.

The Jardim Botanico is easily reached also by cable car or bus. The garden used to be part of a private estate and contains over two thousand exotic plats from five continents. The garden gives home for a parrot park

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