A Journey to the Heart of Madeira

As the train gently rolled into the station, I felt a familiar thrill of anticipation. My love for train travel has always been about the journey, the slow unfolding of landscapes, and the stories that each destination holds. This time, my travels took me to the enchanting island of Madeira, where I embarked on the Nuns Valley and Monte Tour—a half-day adventure that promised to reveal the island’s hidden gems.

The day began with a drive through the charming streets of Funchal, the capital of Madeira. Our first stop was Pico dos Barcelos, a viewpoint that offered a breathtaking panorama of the city and the surrounding ocean. The air was crisp, and the morning sun cast a golden hue over the landscape, evoking a sense of nostalgia for the days when travel was a leisurely pursuit, unhurried and full of wonder.

As we continued our ascent to Eira do Serrado, the road wound through lush forests and dramatic cliffs, each turn revealing a new vista more stunning than the last. At 1094 meters above sea level, Eira do Serrado offered a spectacular view of the Nuns Valley, a secluded caldron surrounded by towering lava rocks. It was a scene that seemed to belong to another time, a place untouched by the rush of modern life.

A Taste of Tradition

Our journey then led us to the heart of the Nuns Valley, where we were welcomed by the warm hospitality of a local family bakery. Here, we indulged in a tasting of traditional Madeiran cakes, biscuits, and liqueurs. Each bite and sip was a celebration of the island’s rich culinary heritage, a reminder of the simple pleasures that make travel so rewarding.

The liqueurs, crafted from local fruits and herbs, were particularly delightful. Their flavors were as vibrant and diverse as the landscapes we had traversed, each one telling a story of the island’s unique culture and traditions. As I savored these treats, I couldn’t help but reflect on the many journeys I’ve taken over the years, each one a tapestry of memories woven together by the people and places I’ve encountered.

The Thrill of the Toboggan Ride

The final leg of our tour took us to Monte, one of Madeira’s most iconic destinations. Here, I experienced the exhilarating toboggan ride, a tradition that dates back to the 19th century. Seated in a wicker sled, I was guided down the steep streets by two skilled carreiros, their deft movements a testament to years of practice.

The ride was a thrilling descent, a rush of wind and laughter that brought out the childlike joy in all of us. It was a fitting end to a day filled with contrasts—serene landscapes and heart-pounding adventure, age-old traditions and new experiences.

As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the island, I found myself reflecting on the day’s journey. The Nuns Valley and Monte Tour had been a delightful reminder of the beauty of slow travel, of taking the time to savor each moment and embrace the stories that each destination has to offer. It was a journey that rekindled my love for exploration and left me with memories to cherish for years to come.