Discover Madeira´s cuisine, Europe´s Best Island Destination 2024.

Madeira, a Portuguese treasure in the middle of the Atlantic, has been recognized in 2024 as the best island destination in Europe. This archipelago, enticing with its pleasant climate and hospitality, hides an unmatched culinary heritage among its valleys and cliffs. In this journey through Madeira´s cuisine, we will explore everything from its iconic wines to the authentic local kitchen. Of course, not overlooking the beauty of its capital, Funchal, and the natural charm of Porto Moniz. Are you already eager to visit Madeira?

Traditional Madeiran cuisine, a treat for the palate

The rich Madeira’s cuisine goes beyond its most famous dishes, offering a palette of flavours that reflect the island´s diversity and wealth. Fresh seafood, caught in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island, holds a prominent place in the local kitchen. Specialities such as "peixe espada preto," a fish grilled and served with banana, are a delicacy you shouldn’t miss. If you are more into meat, then the "espetada", a dish of meat grilled on laurel skewers, will make your mouth water.

The sweet touch of Madeiran cuisine comes with desserts like "bolo de mel", a dense and rich honey cake, considered the oldest dessert on the island. Furthermore, tropical fruit, abundant in Madeira, is used in numerous recipes, from simple cut fruit served as dessert to elaborate cakes and puddings.

Discover Madeira´s cuisine, Europe´s Best Island Destination 2024 - Bola do Mel

Wines, apple cider, and rum from Madeira

Madeira wine is the island´s most famous ambassador with its varied range of styles, from dry to sweet. The singularity of its maturation process, known as "estufagem", gives it extraordinary complexity and longevity.

But the island surprises with more liquid treasures: apple cider is a delightful refreshment, especially on warm summer days. Moreover, sugar cane rum, another star product, distils the essence of Madeira´s vast sugar cane fields. This rum, the base of many local cocktails like the Poncha, is the perfect prelude to diving into Madeira´s cuisine.

Discover Madeira´s cuisine, Europe´s Best Island Destination 2024 - Madeira Wine Tasting at Blandys

Dive into the local gastronomy with professionals

Interested in discovering the secrets of Madeiran cuisine? Then our 7-day tour "The True Flavours & Natural Beauty of the Madeira Islands" is a perfect choice for you. With this immersive experience, you´ll learn to prepare traditional dishes with chef Filipe Janeiro and understand the philosophy behind the simplicity and taste of Madeira´s cuisine after visiting the Farmers´ Market (Mercado dos Lavradores).

Additionally, wine tastings in Madeira are another facet of the island´s rich gastronomic tradition. Beyond simply visiting Blandy´s Wine Lodge, with our tour you´ll get to taste the best Madeirense DOP wines with our expert local guide. If you prefer cider or rum, you´ll also can participate in a tasting in the village of Camacha and in a local distillery respectively. Always accompanied by the best food pairings with local Madeiran food!

Discover Madeira´s cuisine, Europe´s Best Island Destination 2024 - Chef Filipe

What to do in Madeira: Culture, history, nature, and more

Beyond food and drink, the archipelago has many other plans to offer you. First, Funchal, the picturesque capital of Madeira, is a melting pot of culture, history, and nature. The streets of Funchal, with their botanical gardens and terrace cafes, invite you to wander around the city.

A must-visit in Funchal is the Zona Velha, the historical heart of the city, where street art and restaurants create a bohemian atmosphere. Here, visitors can taste typical dishes in quaint restaurants or explore local art galleries. If you decide to book our tour, we´ll start precisely in an incredible rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city!

Discover Madeira´s cuisine, Europe´s Best Island Destination 2024 - Madeiran Cuisine

Discover the North, be amazed by Porto Moniz

In the north of Madeira, Porto Moniz is famous for its natural swimming pools, volcanic formations filled with crystal-clear ocean water. This corner of the island is a paradise for nature lovers, offering not only refreshing swims but also hiking trails that meander through dreamlike landscapes.

The terraces of Porto Moniz, overlooking the Atlantic, are the perfect place to enjoy a sunset, with the island offering its best spectacle. If you prefer the natural surroundings, with our tour you´ll enjoy a 4x4 Jeep ride to explore the north coast: São Vicente, Boaventura, Arco de São Jorge…

Discover Madeira´s cuisine, Europe´s Best Island Destination 2024 - Porto Moniz Natural Pools

Disconnect with nature plans for any level

Madeira is a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers. The "levadas", ancient irrigation channels, are now trails that offer a unique way to explore the island, crossing laurel forests and hidden waterfalls. Moreover, the Pico do Areeiro, the third highest peak in Madeira, offers breathtaking panoramic views, accessible to all levels of hikers.

Lastly, we have more good news, as April 18, 2024, celebrates World Food Travel Day. And to promote the local and regional culinary traditions of Madeira, we offer a 5% discount coupon on our bookings made for our Madeira True Flavour & Nature Journey. The next departure is November 8-14, 2024, don?t miss out! All you need to do is sign up for our newsletter and you will receive the coupon code by email! Eating and travelling are things that move and excite us!

In conclusion, Madeira, with its combination of culture, nature, and gastronomy, invites discovery with all senses. From its wines and typical dishes to its landscapes, this island promises to be an unforgettable destination for any traveller. Don´t think twice and let this dreamy archipelago surprise you!