The Island

Madeira

Madeira island was discovered in 1419 by the portuguese navigators Tristão Vaz Teixeira, Bartolomeu Perestrelo and João Gonçalves Zarco and was given this name due to the large number of trees that abounded on the island.

Located in the Atlantic Ocean, the archipelago consists of four islands, Madeira, Porto Santo, Desertas and Selvagens, only the first two of which are habitable.

The first productions and exports done on the island were initially of wheat and later sugar and wine were introduced. Madeira developed through agricultural production and as an obligatory stopping point on trade routes, with unique products in a unique environment, making it a tourist attraction of excellence today.

The island has majestic sceneries of rare natural beauty and is, as well, characterised by its mild climate all year round. It offers a varied palette of activities, whether at sea, in the air or on land, for every type of traveller.