Ponta do Sol Things To Do
Enjoying the Beach
Ponta do Sol has its own beach, which although pebbly, is a superb place to relax and excellent for swimming, with diving platforms anchored in the crystal clear water. There are plenty of watersports locally. Ponta do Sol is very scenic so perfect for a time out to relax on the beach or take walks along the seashore.
The Botanical Gardens and Monte
Apart from the incredible collection of 2,500 plant species, the Gardens offer stunning views over Funchal, the mountains and the sea. Taking the cable-car up to the historic mountain village of Monte is recommended. Also try out the toboggans that attract thousands of visitors every year. Originally a fast means of transport down to Funchal for people living in Monte, these two seated wicker sledges glide on wooden runners, slide at high speed on narrow winding streets down to Funchal. The journey down is about 10 minutes, reaching at times the speed of 48km per hour. Adventurous, yet safe, this is a perfect contrast to the high tech cable car going up to Monte.
Levada Walks
The Levadas are irrigation canals, often cut into sheer cliffs and mountainsides. The paths alongside these gently sloping and well-maintained canals provide a network of well over a thousand miles of walkways and some unforgettable views. Tour guides are available.
Golf
Madeira is ideal for year-round golfing. There are two courses: Palheiro, set in beautiful parkland with spectacular views over Funchal and the bay, and Santo da Serra, a tree-shaded course set amongst lakes overlooking the Bay of Machico, which regularly hosts PGA European Tour events.
Diving
Most large hotels can arrange dives and there are dive centres around Funchal and further east. Beginners and experienced divers are catered for and PADI courses are available. The warm, crystal clear waters are full of marine life including eels, parrot fish, octopus, tuna and rays, as well as many sunken wrecks.
Boat Trips, Whale and Dolphin Spotting
All kinds of boats leave Funchal, including glass-bottomed boats and even a replica of Columbus’s Santa Maria. You could take a trip just to appreciate the beauty of this coast which includes Cabo Girao, one of the highest cliffs in Europe, or a special whale and dolphin spotting trip, or the ferry across to Porto Santo, Madeira’s tiny and tranquil neighbouring island with its five-mile long beach of golden sand.
Deep-Sea Fishing
Madeira offers some of the world’s finest big game fishing and records are regularly broken here. Beginners are welcomed. The best time for marlin is May to October, but there are plenty of other species including spearfish, tuna, dorado, wahoo, swordfish, blue shark and hammerhead shark. ‘Tag and Release’ is used to help conserve endangered species.
Exploring the Island
Renting a car means that Funchal, with its shopping, museums, nightlife and wine lodges, is under half an hour away and anywhere on the island can be visited in a day. But there are lots of other ways to explore including buses, mountain bikes, jeep safari or even horseback. There’s plenty to see, too, from Ribeira Brava, an attractive resort in a dramatic gorge location to Pico Ruivo, which offers views over the whole island.
