A Journey Through Time: The Enchanting East Tour

As the train of life chugs along, there are moments when one must step off the familiar tracks and embark on a new journey. This time, my wanderlust led me to the verdant landscapes of Madeira, a place where the past and present dance in harmony. The East Tour, with its promise of A-framed houses and the mystical Laurissilva Forest, beckoned me like a siren’s call.

Our guide, Ernesto, was a jovial soul, his laughter echoing through the bus as we wound our way through the lush orchards of Camacha. The road, lined with the vibrant blue blossoms of agapanthus, was a sight to behold. It was here, on this high plateau, that soccer first graced Portuguese soil in 1875. As we journeyed onward, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of the leisurely train rides of my youth, where every turn of the wheel brought a new story to life.

The Majestic Peaks and Valleys

Our ascent to Pico do Arieiro was nothing short of breathtaking. As the bus climbed higher, the green woodlands gave way to the stark beauty of bare rock. The views from the third highest peak in Madeira were a testament to nature’s grandeur, with knife-edge ridges and sheer cliffs stretching as far as the eye could see. The cotton-wool clouds nestled in the valleys below, creating a scene that seemed plucked from a dream.

The journey continued through the Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where the air was thick with the scent of ancient trees and the promise of adventure. Though the weather was not in our favor for a Levada walk, the forest’s beauty was undiminished. It reminded me of the times I’d peer out of a train window, watching the world blur by, each moment a fleeting glimpse of something extraordinary.

A Glimpse into Madeira’s Heart

Our final destination was Santana, a village that seemed to have sprung from the pages of a storybook. The triangular thatched houses, once homes to local farmers, stood proudly amidst the terraced fields and orchards. As I wandered through the village, I was transported back to a simpler time, where life moved at a gentler pace, much like the trains I so adore.

The day concluded with a visit to Porto da Cruz, a village nestled at the foot of the imposing Penha d’Aguia rock. Here, the only running sugar mill on the north coast stood as a testament to Madeira’s rich history. As I strolled along the sea promenade, the salty breeze whispering tales of old, I felt a deep connection to this land and its stories.

The East Tour was a journey of discovery, a reminder of the beauty that lies in the slow unraveling of a place’s history and culture. Much like the train journeys I cherish, it was a chance to pause, reflect, and savor the moments that make life truly remarkable. For those who seek the timeless allure of slow travel, Madeira’s East Tour is a journey not to be missed.