8 best poncha bars on Madeira Island
It’s an impossible task to write a list of all the poncha bars on Madeira. Any bar worth its liquor license will almost certainly be serving this strong and fruity local punch. Over multiple trips to…
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Stories
Routes, regions and practical notes for travelling with a little more attention.
27 best medieval & historic events in Portugal in 2026
Colourful banners flutter above cheering crowds as knights on horseback clash in a tournament for the ages. The air is thick with the scents of roasting meat and red wine, and music from another era fills…
29 traditional Madeira dishes and food to try: What to eat and drink
The beauty of travelling around Portugal is eating through the huge variety of regional dishes, local sweets and unusual. From the north to the south, and out to the remote islands there are so many unique…
The 4 best hikes (that I’ve done) on Madeira Island
From lush, tropical scenery to ancient Laurisilva forests to arid plains and volcanic stone beaches, the scenery in Madeira is anything but dull – and dozens (in fact, hundreds) of incredible trails make it a top…
Where to eat and drink in Madeira
Bolo de caco. Milho frito. Peixe espada. Lapas. Maracujá. Madeira Island might be part of Portugal, but this sub-tropical drop in the Atlantic has its own strong identity – and most importantly, unique dishes and foods…
Best music festivals in Portugal: Complete 2026 guide
Each year, especially in summer, Portugal’s music festival calendar is packed with big-name artists, major festival line-ups and smaller boutique events. Expect to find music festivals in Portugal’s big cities of Lisbon and Porto, plus down…