Discovering the Enchantment of Laurisilva Forests

Our journey began in the charming town of Ponta do Sol, a place that feels like a hidden gem on the southern coast of Madeira. As we set off, the excitement in my children’s eyes was palpable. The promise of exploring the Laurisilva forests, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was enough to spark their imaginations. We climbed to Paul da Serra, 1400 meters above sea level, where the views of the south coast were nothing short of breathtaking. The kids were thrilled to be so high up, and the fresh mountain air was invigorating.

The highlight of this part of the tour was undoubtedly the Vereda do Fanal. Here, we found ourselves surrounded by some of the oldest laurel trees on the island, some believed to be around 800 years old. The forest was like stepping into a fairy tale, with its lush greenery and the gentle rustle of leaves. My children were fascinated by the idea that these trees had stood here for centuries, witnessing the passage of time. It was a perfect opportunity to teach them about the importance of preserving such natural wonders.

A Splash of Fun at Seixal Beach

After our forest adventure, we made our way to Seixal beach, passing the typical ‘poios’ terraced farmland along the way. The sight of these terraces, carved into the hillsides, was a testament to the ingenuity of local farmers. At the beach, the kids couldn’t wait to dive into the crystal-clear waters. Seixal beach, with its black sand and stunning backdrop of cliffs, was a perfect spot for a family swim.

While the children played in the water, I took a moment to relax and soak in the beauty of our surroundings. The beach was not crowded, allowing us to enjoy a peaceful family moment. It was a reminder of how important it is to find destinations that offer both adventure and relaxation, catering to the needs of both parents and children.

Savoring Local Flavors in Chão da Ribeira

Our final stop was Chão da Ribeira, where we were treated to a delightful local lunch. Chef Sérgio welcomed us with a warm smile and introduced us to the art of making ‘espetada’, a traditional grilled beef skewer. My children were eager to learn and even got to try their hand at preparing the skewers. It was a fun and educational experience, and the taste of the freshly grilled meat was simply delicious.

As we enjoyed our meal, we also had the chance to sample Madeira Wine, a perfect accompaniment to the flavors of the island. The day concluded with a visit to São Vicente’s organic honey producer, where we learned about honey production and even tried making Madeira’s traditional drink. It was a sweet ending to a day filled with adventure, learning, and family bonding.

This tour was a perfect blend of nature, culture, and cuisine, offering something for everyone in the family. It reminded me of the joy of exploring new places with my children, creating memories that we will cherish forever. If you’re looking for a family-friendly adventure in Madeira, I highly recommend the Madeira Adventure.