A Journey Above the Clouds

As the train gently rocked me into a state of serene anticipation, I found myself reminiscing about the many journeys I’ve taken across Europe. Yet, this time, my destination was not a quaint European village or a bustling city, but the enchanting island of Madeira. The promise of discovering hidden gems, untouched by the hands of time, was too alluring to resist.

Our adventure began at the Cabo Girão Skywalk, a place where the earth seemed to fall away beneath our feet, leaving us suspended above the azure ocean. Standing on Europe’s highest glass platform, I felt a familiar thrill, akin to the first time I boarded a train bound for the unknown. The panoramic views over Funchal and the charming town of Câmara de Lobos were a sight to behold, especially in the early morning light, when the world was still waking up.

Duarte, our guide, was a storyteller at heart, weaving tales of the island’s history and culture with a warmth that made each stop feel like a page from a beloved novel. His humor and knowledge turned the journey into something truly special, much like the conductors and fellow travelers I’ve met on my rail journeys.

Into the Heart of Madeira

Our next stop was Praia do Seixal, a place that seemed to have leapt from the pages of a prehistoric tale. The black sand, born from volcanic springs, was a stark contrast to the lush green cliffs that towered above us. It was a landscape that invited contemplation, much like the rolling hills and valleys seen from a train window.

The Miradouro do Véu da Noiva offered a breathtaking view of the “Bride’s Veil” waterfall, cascading into the sea with a grace that seemed almost otherworldly. It was here that I felt the true magic of Madeira, a place where nature’s beauty is both raw and refined.

The volcanic pools of Seixal and Porto Moniz were a testament to the island’s fiery origins. Though the waters were a bit too chilly for a swim, the sight of the ocean waves crashing against the lava rocks was mesmerizing. We paused for lunch at a local café, where the flavors of Madeira danced on our tongues, much like the culinary delights I’ve savored in train dining cars across Europe.

A Forest of Dreams

Our journey continued to Ilheus da Ribeira da Janela, where the iconic sea stacks stood as silent sentinels against the horizon. It was a place that spoke of timelessness, much like the ancient forests of Fanal, our final destination.

Wandering through the Fanal Forest was like stepping into a fairy tale. The ancient trees, draped in moss, seemed to whisper secrets of the past. As we strolled through this enchanted landscape, I was reminded of the many forests I’ve seen from train windows, each with its own story to tell.

Duarte surprised us with a small celebration for a fellow traveler’s birthday, a gesture that added a personal touch to an already unforgettable day. As we made our way back, the laughter and camaraderie among our group reminded me of the friendships forged on long train journeys.

This tour was a reminder of the beauty of slow travel, of taking the time to truly experience a place and its people. Madeira, with its hidden gems and warm hospitality, captured my heart, much like the many destinations I’ve visited by rail. If you find yourself on this enchanting island, I urge you to embark on this adventure and discover the magic for yourself.