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General Description of Machico
The focal point for a large fishing and farming community, Machico town stretches along the bay for around 1 ml and extends inland by the same distance into the surrounding hillsides. It has an attractive, tree-shaded centre, small, winding streets and many old buildings, including a church and fort, which reflect the distant days when this was the island's capital – it was the site of the first Portuguese landing in Madeira, by Joao Goncalves Zarco in the 15th century. Romantic local legend says the town takes its name from a Briton, Robert Machim, who was shipwrecked here in 1346 after fleeing the English court with his young lover. More modern developments include a small marina and oceanside promenade, but this remains primarily a working village and day-trip destination.
Market/Suitability
Anyone looking for a peaceful village atmosphere in a noncommercial area; little else of great appeal or interest. Not suitable for a younger market seeking nightlife.
Location/Contact
Location: At the N end of the E coast, 15 mls NE of Funchal and 3 mls NE of airport.
Position: Between the massive headlands of the deep Bay of Zarco, facing the ocean with spectacular views of Ponta Sao Lourenco (St Lawrence Point). The town spreads inland along the steep sides of the valley.
Postcode: 9200
Accommodation
A small clutch of holiday properties.
Beach
Pebble beach in front of village suffers from litter and pollution and is not ideal for swimming.
Shopping
Shops and shopping centre serve local everyday needs. Best buys in Funchal.
Entertainment
Daytime: local walks along levadas (irrigation channels); climbing Pico do Facho for spectacular views; 18-hole golf course (20 mins by car); strolls around village – some interesting small churches. Water sports include diving and sailing.
Nightlife: limited in village to local "fiestas"; otherwise, entertainment programmes at hotel Dom Pedro Baia, ranging from folklore to occasional discos.
Eating Out
Plenty of restaurants for a small village, ranging from beach huts to gourmet. Menus feature fresh fish, "espetadas" (skewered meat), "gaiado" (dried fish), tropical fruits and vegetables.
Public Transport
A good local network covering an 18-ml radius, with economical, half-hourly service to Funchal.
Local Excursions
Island tour; "crater and toboggan" tour (visit to spectacular Nun's Valley and a steep 2-ml trip downhill in a wicker toboggan); Camacha (heart of Madeira's wicker industry) and Pico do Arieiro; garden and city tour of Funchal; boat trips to Espigao Cave.
Serving Airports
Funchal (FNC)
Flight time from the UK: 3 hrs. 30 mins
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