Cadogan Madeira & Porto Santo

With its dramatic scenery and unique Portuguese and British history, the semi-tropical island of Madeira is one of Europe's best-kept secrets. From arid mountaintops to verdant forests, from sleepy coastal villages to hidden art treasures, this comprehensive new guide explores all the corners that can easily be missed. It brings to life the culture and characters that informed the island's past and shaped its present. Each year Madeira's flora and spectacular landscape attracts thousands of tourists and hikers. Cadogan's guide has a special color flower-viewing section and outlines the most beautiful and peaceful hikes. If visitors want to wander further afield, the guide includes a section on Porto Santo, Madeira's own desert island and the only place to find a stretch of beach; and the Desertas, rocky outcrops inhabited only by rare plants and birds. Sample the best Madeira wine in Funchal; taste the delicious regional specialties, seafood, and fruit; and shop for world-famous embroidery and wickerwork. With Cadogan, visitors will uncover untold delights from the jacaranda-lined avenues of Funchal to the harsh beauty of the craggy coastline--contrasts that only enhance this unique island.

o Divides the island up into regions to give full coverage to all the villages and sights where the architecture changes dramatically within just a few miles
o Our discerning author picks out the best places to stay, eat, drink, and shop
o Practical, reliable advice on prices, tours, train, and bus information, walking routes in the rugged interior, and details of festivals