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Portugal

Winter in Portugal: The Colorful Island Culture of Madeira

Program No. 23492RJ
Explore the landscapes of Madeira, the “island of eternal springtime,” during the quieter winter months. Seafaring tradition, exotic plants and sweet treats await on this lush island.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
8 days
Program Begins
Funchal, Madeira Island
Program Concludes
Funchal, Madeira Island
Group Type
Small Group
Meals
13 ( 6B, 4L, 3D )
Activity Level
When explorers first laid eyes on Madeira, they could hardly believe the haven of beauty that stood before them. Black lava pools curled at the feet of stoic volcanoes, lush subtropical forest gave way to plummeting cliffs, and bird-of-paradise flowers sat vigil over the island. Thanks to its position between Europe, Africa, and the Americas, Madeira grew up as an important trading post, and today the island is as rich in tradition as it is lush in landscapes. Experience the best of this “island of eternal springtime” during the quieter winter months, while floral scents still fill Madeira's sea-washed air but the crowds have thinned. Uncover the history behind its vital artisan industries, explore its world-renowned vistas and variety of endemic plants, savor its eponymous wine, and more on this remote but lush island.
Best of all, you'll...
  • Explore the many gardens and forests of Madeira — also known as the floating garden of the Atlantic — including the renowned Botanical Gardens, featuring 2,500 species of endemic plants of the island.
  • Learn about the island’s most important industries as you visit a local wine cellar, an embroidery factory and a sugar mill.
  • Soar to the tops of Funchal’s hills by cable car for breathtaking views before returning on an exhilarating toboggan ride.
General Notes
Give us a call to combine this learning adventure with select dates of "Winter in Portugal: Rich History & Culture from Cascais to Lisbon" (#22583) for even more learning in Southern Europe! This program can only be combined in the following order : "Winter in Portugal: Rich History & Culture from Cascais to Lisbon" followed by "Winter in Portugal: The Colorful Island Culture of Madeira".
Profile Image
Ana Cristina Silva
Ana Cristina Silva is a Portuguese group leader and certified by SNATTI, a union of Portuguese group leaders, managers and drivers. She has worked on Madeira Island for over 30 years guiding and leading groups. Her knowledge is constantly growing as years go by with her natural interest in subjects such as social life, history and botany. Fluent in Portuguese, English, French and Spanish, she loves sharing Madeira with visitors.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Profile Image of Mary-Anne de Freitas
Mary-Anne de Freitas
Mary Anne de Freitas is an experienced group leader and international courier with over 18 years in the travel industry, leading groups in Portugal and overseas. In addition to her master's in tourism management and planning as well as other education in tourism, she regularly participates in conferences to update her knowledge on the latest trends in the travel industry. She has worked for both local and international travel companies. Mary Anne is fluent in Portuguese, English, Dutch and French.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking 2-3 miles per day, uneven terrain, steps, cobble stones and steep slopes all around the island.
Small Group (13 to 24)
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List (8 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
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Call 800-454-5768
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Assurance Plan

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Sustainable Travel

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