MADEIRA… warm, sunny, picturesque and brimming with local colour. Famed for its ‘Levada’ walks – irrigation canals originally developed to carry water from the northern wet regions to the parched areas of the south of the island – today’s tourist can take their pick of history, culture, adventure, cuisine… so much to see, just allow yourself plenty of time, says Michael Cowton
Perched high above the capital, Funchal, are arrays of startlingly pretty wild flowers
Heading across the island towards the quieter northern coast
A flower seller in traditional costume in Funchal market
Rows of red peppers and garlic bulbs hanging in Funchal market
Tourists are able to wander around the fish market where the fishmongers ply their trade
Hurtling down the steep, narrow roads in a wicker basket is a tourist tradition in Funchal
Hanging out to dry on a boat in the traditional fishing village of Camara de Lobos, five kilometres west of Funchal
Fisherman sorting his catch out
Locals gather for a game of cards by the bay in Camara de Lobos
Lovely mountain views and wild flowers lie around every corner in the centre of the island
Not exactly a trig point, merely a stone pile on the road to Porto Moniz
This lonely church offers splendid sea views from its doorway
Bathers take a dip in the waters at Porto Maniz, a pleasant town on the north of the island
Porto Maniz offers safe bathing areas in its tidal pools surrounded by rocky outcrops
Madeira may be famous for its sherry, but the island is also renowned for its flowers
- All images © Michael Cowton
