Destination Facts

• Official Name: Machico
• Type of Destination: Town
• Brief Description: A charming coastal town on Madeira Island, known for its golden sandy beach, historic significance, and tranquil atmosphere.
• Location: Eastern coast of Madeira Island, Portugal, approximately 24 km from Funchal.
• Year Established/Founded: 1440 (one of the first settlements established by Portuguese explorers on Madeira).
• Governing Body/Management: Machico Municipal Council (Câmara Municipal de Machico).
• Significance/Known For: The legendary landing site of the first Portuguese explorers, Robert Machim and Anne d'Arfet, and home to the only natural golden sand beach on Madeira.
• Size/Area: Approximately 17.4 km².
• Population: Around 11,000 inhabitants (as of recent estimates).
• Main Attractions/Key Features:
  • Praia de Machico (Machico Beach), a rare golden sand beach on the island.
  • Igreja Matriz de Machico (Machico Parish Church), a historic 15th-century church.
  • Pico do Facho viewpoint, offering panoramic views of the town and coastline.
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with mild winters and warm summers; spring and autumn offer fewer crowds.
• Entrance Fee/Ticket Info: Free access to the town and beach; some attractions may charge fees.
• Operating Hours: N/A (town is accessible at all times; specific attractions may have varying hours).
• Website: www.cm-machico.pt (official municipal website).

Essentials

• Best Months to Visit: April, August, July, June, May, September

Tours and Day Trips

Popular Tours & Day Trips from Machico

1. Pico do Facho Viewpoint & Coastal Walk

Begin your exploration with a short but rewarding hike to Pico do Facho, a scenic viewpoint overlooking Machico Bay. The trail, accessible within minutes from the town center, offers panoramic vistas of the coastline and the neighboring Porto Santo Island. Ideal for nature lovers and photographers, this excursion takes about 1–2 hours, depending on pacing. Families and casual hikers will appreciate the manageable incline and the chance to spot local flora.

2. Ponta de São Lourenço Peninsula

A dramatic contrast to Machico's lush valleys, the Ponta de São Lourenço peninsula is a rugged, windswept landscape of volcanic cliffs and endemic plants. A guided or self-guided walk along its marked trails reveals secluded coves and sweeping ocean views. The round-trip hike takes approximately 3 hours, making it suitable for moderately active travelers. Early mornings are recommended for cooler temperatures and softer light.

3. Traditional Rum Distillery & Sugar Cane Tour

Delve into Madeira's agricultural heritage with a visit to a nearby rum distillery, where sugar cane—once the island's economic backbone—is still processed into local spirits. Tours often include tastings of poncha, a traditional drink, and insights into the distillation process. Located just a short drive from Machico, this half-day excursion appeals to culture enthusiasts and those curious about regional traditions.

4. Boat Trip to Ilhas Desertas

For a maritime adventure, join a boat excursion to the Ilhas Desertas, a small archipelago of uninhabited islets southeast of Madeira. These protected reserves are home to monk seals and rare seabirds. Tours typically depart from nearby marinas and include snorkeling stops in crystal-clear waters. The full-day trip is best suited for wildlife lovers and those seeking a tranquil escape from the mainland.

5. Machico Historical Walking Tour

Uncover the town's layered past with a guided stroll through Machico's historic center, where cobbled streets lead to landmarks like the 15th-century Igreja Matriz and the fortified São João Baptista. Learn about the island's discovery and the legends surrounding its first settlers. Lasting about 2 hours, this tour is a must for history buffs and those who appreciate architectural details.

When to visit

Best Time to Visit Machico

Seasonal Breakdown

Machico, a charming coastal town on Madeira Island, enjoys a subtropical climate with mild temperatures year-round. The seasons here are less pronounced than in continental Europe, but distinct patterns emerge.

Spring (March - May)

Spring in Machico brings pleasant temperatures ranging from 16°C to 22°C. Rainfall decreases compared to winter, and the landscape bursts with vibrant flora. This is an excellent time for hiking along the levadas or exploring the town's historic sites without summer crowds.

• Pros: Comfortable weather, blooming flowers, fewer tourists
• Cons: Occasional rain showers, cooler ocean temperatures
• Events: Flower Festival in Funchal (April-May, nearby)

Summer (June - August)

Summer offers warm temperatures between 22°C and 27°C, with minimal rainfall. The ocean becomes inviting for swimming at Machico's golden sand beach, a rarity in Madeira.

• Pros: Ideal beach weather, vibrant atmosphere, numerous daylight hours
• Cons: More tourists, higher accommodation prices
• Events: Atlantic Festival (June, fireworks), Nossa Senhora do Amparo festival (July)

Autumn (September - November)

Autumn maintains warm temperatures (20°C-25°C) through September, gradually cooling. Rainfall increases in November, but many sunny days remain. This is harvest season for Madeira's famous wine grapes.

• Pros: Warm sea temperatures, wine harvest activities, thinning crowds
• Cons: Increasing rainfall later in season
• Events: Wine Festival (September, nearby), Chestnut Festival (November)

Winter (December - February)

Winter temperatures range from 14°C to 20°C. While rain is more frequent, sunny days still occur. The mountains may see snow, creating dramatic backdrops.

• Pros: Mildest winter in Europe, festive atmosphere, lowest prices
• Cons: More rainfall, cooler ocean temperatures
• Events: Christmas and New Year celebrations, Carnival (February)

Overall Recommendation

For beach lovers and those seeking vibrant energy, June through September offers the warmest, driest weather. Nature enthusiasts and hikers will find April-May and September-October ideal with comfortable temperatures and stunning landscapes. Budget-conscious travelers can enjoy Machico's charm during the mild winter months with fewer crowds.

Considerations

Peak season (July-August) brings higher prices and more visitors, while winter offers better deals. Many attractions remain open year-round, though some may have reduced hours in low season. The microclimate of Madeira means weather can vary between Machico's coast and inland areas.

What to pack

What to Pack for Machico

Machico, a charming coastal town on Madeira Island, blends mild maritime weather with opportunities for seaside strolls, light hikes, and cultural exploration. Pack thoughtfully for its microclimate and relaxed pace.

For Coastal Comfort

• Lightweight Windbreaker: Coastal breezes can be brisk, especially in the evening or along the waterfront.
• Quick-Dry Sandals: Ideal for walking along pebbled beaches or dipping into tidal pools.
• UV-Protective Sunglasses: The Atlantic light can be dazzling, even on overcast days.

For Gentle Exploration

• Sturdy Walking Shoes: Cobbled streets and nearby levada trails require supportive footwear.
• Foldable Tote Bag: For spontaneous purchases at local markets or picnics by the bay.
• Compact Umbrella: Sudden light showers are common in Madeira's microclimates.

Cultural Nuances

• Modest Cover-Up: Useful when visiting churches like the 15th-century Capela dos Milagres.
• Portuguese Phrasebook: While many speak English, a few polite phrases are appreciated in smaller shops.

Culture

The Historical Heartbeat of Madeira

Machico, the second-largest town on Madeira Island, carries the weight of history with quiet dignity. It was here, in 1419, that Portuguese explorers João Gonçalves Zarco and Tristão Vaz Teixeira first landed, marking the beginning of Madeira's settlement. Unlike the bustling capital of Funchal, Machico retains a slower, more introspective rhythm, where the past lingers in its cobbled streets and whitewashed houses adorned with traditional palheiros (thatched roofs). The town's maritime heritage is palpable, from the 16th-century Igreja Matriz de Machico to the small fishing boats bobbing in its natural bay.

Festivals: A Tapestry of Devotion and Joy

Machico's cultural calendar revolves around its deeply rooted religious traditions. The Festa do Senhor dos Milagres, held in October, is the most significant. Legend speaks of a 16th-century crucifix that survived a shipwreck, washing ashore in Machico—a miracle still celebrated with processions, floral carpets, and folk music. In contrast, the Festa da Nossa Senhora do Amparo (July) blends solemnity with revelry, featuring bailinhos (satirical folk dances) and the clatter of carros de cesto (wicker toboggans) racing down steep streets.

Local Crafts: The Art of Utility

Machico's artisanship is unpretentious yet enduring. The town is one of the last places where embroidery follows the ponto de Machico style—a geometric pattern distinct from Funchal’s more elaborate designs. Similarly, vime (wickerwork) thrives here, with baskets and furniture woven using techniques passed down through generations. Visitors might glimpse artisans at work in small workshops near the Ribeira de Machico.

Cuisine: A Taste of the Sea and the Soil

Machico’s cuisine reflects its dual identity as a fishing village and agricultural hub. Espada com banana (scabbard fish with banana) is a local twist on a Madeiran classic, often served with bolo do caco (sweet potato bread). The town’s mercado municipal offers fresh lapas (limpets) grilled with garlic butter, best enjoyed with a glass of vinho seco (dry wine) from nearby Caniçal. For something sweet, mel de cana (sugarcane honey) drizzled over queijadas (cheese tarts) is a nod to the island’s sugar-producing past.

Social Customs: The Warmth of the Machiquense

Respect for tradition shapes daily life in Machico. Elders are greeted first in social settings, and Sunday lunches remain a sacred family ritual. Visitors might notice the saudade—a melancholic nostalgia—woven into bailinho songs or the quiet pride in maintaining customs like the roga (communal farm work). A simple "bom dia" goes far here; Machico’s hospitality is understated but genuine.

• When attending a festival, observe processions quietly—these are deeply spiritual moments for locals.
• Try bargaining politely at the mercado; it’s expected but should never be aggressive.
• If invited to a home, bring a small gift like pastries or wine, but avoid overly lavish gestures.

History

A Brief History of Machico

Nestled on the eastern coast of Madeira, Machico holds the distinction of being one of the island's first settlements, a place where history and legend intertwine. Founded in the early 15th century, it was here that Portuguese explorers João Gonçalves Zarco and Tristão Vaz Teixeira first landed in 1419, marking the beginning of Madeira's colonization. The town's name is said to derive from the tragic love story of Robert Machim and Anne d'Arfet, English lovers who, according to lore, were shipwrecked on these shores in the 14th century. Over the centuries, Machico evolved from a humble agricultural outpost into a vibrant town, its fortunes tied to sugar cane, wine, and later, tourism.

Key Historical Dates

• 1419: Portuguese explorers Zarco and Teixeira land in Machico, initiating the settlement of Madeira.
• 1440: Machico is officially established as a parish, becoming one of the island's earliest administrative centers.
• 1803: A devastating flood sweeps through the town, destroying much of its original infrastructure and prompting reconstruction.
• 1996: The modern marina is inaugurated, revitalizing Machico's connection to the sea and boosting its appeal to visitors.

The Legacy of Sugar and Wine

During the 15th and 16th centuries, Machico thrived as a hub for sugar production, its fertile lands yielding wealth for Portuguese settlers. By the 17th century, as sugar declined, vineyards took root, contributing to Madeira's famed wine industry. The town's historical core still reflects this agrarian past, with remnants of old mills and estates dotting the landscape.

Modern Machico

Today, Machico balances its historical charm with contemporary life. The 2008 restoration of its 15th-century church, Igreja Matriz de Machico, stands as a testament to its enduring heritage, while the golden sands of its artificial beach—a rarity in Madeira—draw both locals and travelers seeking sun and sea.