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Madeira Wine Festival: Wine, Food and the Magic of the Island
Discover the Madeira Wine Festival, a colourful celebration of wine, food and island traditions, with first-hand experiences of Madeira's vineyards and wine culture.
Martin Hesp
Feb 268 min read


From Alpine Peaks to Atlantic Shores: My Definitive Summer 2026 Travel Guide
A quick guide to some of the places we think will be influential and important for leisure travellers in 2026
Martin Hesp
Feb 43 min read


The Hidden Algarve: Walking Festivals, Whitewashed Villages and Authentic Portugal
Think the Algarve is all beaches and golf courses? Think again. This journey into Portugal's southern countryside uncovers walking festivals, traditional villages, delicious food and the quieter, authentic Algarve few visitors experience.
Martin Hesp
Nov 24, 20258 min read


Lagar dos Pardieiros Olive Oil Mill – Traditional and Modern Production in the Algarve Hills
A visit to the amazing Lagar dos Pardieiros olive oil producing business up in the high hills near the lovely little town of Monchique.
Martin Hesp
Nov 12, 20258 min read


Madeira Travel Overview
Madeira combines spectacular mountain scenery, a wonderfully temperate climate, superb food and one of Europe’s most charming capitals. Travel writer Martin Hesp explores Funchal, walks the island’s famous levadas and royal paths, samples Madeiran cuisine and discovers why this Atlantic island remains one of his favourite destinations.
Martin Hesp
Sep 18, 20249 min read


Madeira Short Break Guide: 3-Day Photo Itinerary & Hotel Stays
Discover how to plan the perfect 3 to 4-day short break in Madeira. Explore Funchal highlights, scenic walks, local seafood spots, and top places to stay.
Martin Hesp
Aug 13, 20245 min read


Madeira Food Guide: What to Eat and Drink on the Island
Madeira is a paradise for food lovers, with superb seafood, tropical fruits and distinctive traditional dishes. Travel writer Martin Hesp explores the island’s food culture, from black scabbardfish, espetada and bolo do caco to grilled limpets, poncha and the extraordinary produce of Funchal’s famous market.
Martin Hesp
Jul 1, 20245 min read


Madeira Atlantic Festival: Fireworks, Music and Summer in Funchal
Discover Madeira's spectacular Atlantic Festival, from the famous Funchal fireworks competition to music, culture and unforgettable summer celebrations – with a first-hand look at this extraordinary island event.
Martin Hesp
Jul 1, 20248 min read


Madeira Jeep Tour: Exploring Madeira with Lazermar
A first-hand account of a Madeira jeep tour with Lazermar, exploring the island's spectacular scenery before lunch at Ponta da Calheta.
Martin Hesp
Sep 7, 20203 min read


Walking Madeira's Levadas: Exploring the Island's Mountain Waterways
Madeira's levadas offer some of the island's most memorable walks. Here's my experience of walking them, with photographs and practical advice for today's visitors.
Martin Hesp
Sep 5, 20206 min read
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