Monday, 30 March. FUNCHAL, MADEIRA, PORTUGAL.

Fortunately, the rough seas did not  prevent our docking at Funchal, on the beautiful island of Madeira. It was a relaxing morning, onboard, before our early afternoon departure for a tour of the area. There are several mountains around this harbour area and our skilled driver took the bus up and down the narrow, winding roads on a few of them. 

At the peak of the highest one, we enjoyed the local cherry liqueur and Christmas cake, and could see the valley community that was originally the refuge of a group of nuns who fled the harbour area to escape pirates. The Christmas cake is a local custom. About December 8th or 10th every year, the fruitcake is made from a family recipe that includes local molasses, and probably local rum for soaking. Many cakes are made, and the last of the cakes from the year before are eaten on the day the new ones are made. If last year’s cake isn’t up to standard, a new recipe is required. 

We had a great guide and an amazing driver, so it was a terrific tour.

The last stop was a glass platform over the highest cliff in Europe. We surprised ourselves by venturing onto it. Yikes!! Joan was feeling unwell tonight, so Larry, Bob and I dined alone at Chartreuse. It was a great meal. We just hope Joan recovers by tomorrow. As we returned to the open sea, it got very rough again, and it’s expected to be that way for most of the night and well into tomorrow. The jazz performance tonight was not to my taste so we retired early.

All Photos of the Day

Comments

  1. AnonymousMarch 31, 2026 at 6:15 AM

    Hope Joan is feeling better. Hope the seas lessen.

    ReplyDelete

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