Machico

Machico is one of our favourite towns for experiencing a quieter side of Madeira away from Funchal. Set around a wide bay on the east coast, it combines a relaxed seafront, a small historic centre and one of Madeira’s only two golden sand beaches – the other is in Calheta. The town also has an important place in Madeira’s history: it was here that Portuguese explorers João Gonçalves Zarco and Tristão Vaz Teixeira landed in 1419, marking the beginning of the Portuguese settlement of the island. You’ll find reminders of this history around the old centre, including the 15th-century Igreja Matriz de Machico. For a swim, you have two very different options right next to each other. Praia de Machico is an artificial beach with imported golden sand and usually calm, protected water, while the neighbouring pebble beach offers a more typical Madeiran beach experience. And if you like ice cream, don’t miss Gelati right by the beach. For us, it’s simply the best ice cream we’ve found on Madeira – and yes, of course you’ll also find it as a separate Tip in our “Ice Cream & Sweets” category. 😉 But Machico is also a nice place simply to spend a few hours without a big sightseeing plan. Walk along the promenade and through the old centre, stop for a coffee or something to eat, and enjoy the bay before continuing your trip. If you’re exploring Madeira’s east coast, we think Machico is well worth including – whether for a swim, a walk through town or simply a relaxed stop by the sea.