Days out, things to do and see in Madeira

Although towards the eastern end of Madeira, Canico is well positioned to take advantage of all the Island has to offer. The main east/west Via Rapida runs close by (not that close that you can hear it though) providing quick and easy journeys across much of the island.

Canico its self is a pleasant town with a number of shops and good restaurants. Recommended are Lareira by the central square, Central (for Picanha) 100m north and The Village Pub (Guinness and Prego nao Prato) on the north east outskirts.

The headland at Garajau has a large statue, the 'Christo Rei' and just offshore is Portugal's only Marine Reserve. Scuba diving is regulated but 'free-diving' is apparently not. The coastline east from Garajau to Praia de Reis Magos is stunning, the latter having a delightful fish restaurant on the beach front.

A little further afield and inland is Monte with its superb gardens and church. Drive or take the cable car from Funchal; this is where you will find the famous toboggan run.

Camacha is a pleasant village vith a craft centre that is well worth a visit.

Twenty Kms to the east is Machico, the original capital of Madeira. With a tidy promenade and several Cafés, it's the gateway to the eastern penninsular. Go north to Santo da Serra, its Park and Market.

The north east coast is wonderfully picturesque, where rolling hills end in precipitous cliffs. Porto da Cruz is a charming seaside village with a circular walk north along the prom (odd place for a strange sculpture!), round the headland and back past the Rum Works. Eagle Rock stands stark against the sky and there are some wonderful views back down the coast from Faial.

A little further north is Santana, famed for its traditional straw-thatched houses.

Inland are the mountains - Madeira may not be a big island but it has some very high mountains for its size; about 50% higher than Scotland. Pico do Arieiro (reachable by car or coach trip) is the 3rd highest at 1816M (6000 feet). Best time is first thing in the morning; the light is better and there are far fewer tourists.

Ponta de Sao Lourenco is the eastern tip of the Island, much of which is a nature reserve and is well worth the trip. The geology of this part is totally different, giving an almost african desert-like appearence. There are some great walks here and fantastic views of both the north and south coasts of the island.

Golf

Canico is conveniently positioned between Madeira's two main golf courses and they are both within easy driving distance. Palheiro Golf at about 5Kms (3 miles) is an 18-hole par 72 course with great views of Funchal and the south coast. Santo da Serra Golf Course is about 15Kms (10 miles) away. Set high in a lovely part of the island this 27 hole course is a picturesque delight.