EAST COAST, EASTERN INLAND AND PORTO SANTO TOUR
Traveling the winding roads into the center of the eastern
end of the island brings the traveler to Ribeiro Frio. In
addition to being home to a trout hatchery, Ribeiro Frio is the
starting point for one of the more popular levada walks on the
island.
Directly west of Ribeiro Frio is the summit of Madeira's
second highest peak, Pico do Arieiro. Unlike it's higher neighbor,
Pico Ruivo, it is possible to get to the summit of Pico do Arieiro
by car where, on a clear day, the traveler receives a beautiful
view of the island.
Back to the northeast coast is the town of Caniçal.
A short drive away is the location of Madeira's only sandy
beach near Ponta de São Lourenço. Because of it's volcanic history,
the beach is comprised of a dark, almost black, sand.
South of Ponta de São Lourenço and Caniçal is the city of
Machico. In addition to Funchal, Machico is a major tourist
destination on the island.
Located in the forests of southeast Madeira is the village
of Camacha- famous for its wide variety of items made from wicker.
Returning the Funchal, it's possible to take a ferry along
the island's east coast (about a 2 hour trip) to the neighboring
island of Porto Santo. Here, the traveler is greeting with a view
that contrasts greatly with that of the main island. Most
noticeable is the beautiful, golden sandy beach that stretches
along Porto Santo's south coast.
This concludes the pictorial tour of Madeira. Again, only
a sampling of the many things to be seen on this "garden in the
Atlantic."
