Language Warning! Because of the incredible, ethereal experience, the syntax takes an elevated tack. It isn’t easy not to sound like a poet when discussing Funchal! I will return to this place, and when I do, there will be generous chunks of time for me to sit with the love of my life. We can hold hands for hours on end. We will sit in silence, and meditate, and pray, and laugh, and smile. (Leah’s addition- yes, Funchal is THAT beautiful, inspiring, and intriguing!)
Funchal, the jewel of Madeira, unfolded before us like an illustration out of a storybook as we disembarked from the MSC Divina. True to our rambling spirit, we avoided guided tours. Instead, we opted to chart our course through this beautiful city on our own terms. Little did we know that our afternoon adventure would paint a mural of discovery, making Funchal stand out as the most beautiful place my eyes have ever seen.
Nestled into the mountainous crescent, Funchal defied the conventional limits of charm. The city’s architecture appeared to grow organically from the hillsides, creating a display of Eastern Atlantic ingenuity. The layers of whitewashed houses and churches blended seamlessly with the island’s landscape.
Our shore day took an ethereal turn when we entered the park, a haven for tourists and a testament to the island’s commitment to beauty. I couldn’t help but stare at the enormous, towering ancient trees and I tried to imagine the reems of history they witnessed over time. The garden fountains whispered breezes of serenity, and the winding pathways invited us into a world where nature and design harmoniously engaged one another. If my imagination could have painted a portrait of paradise, Funchal’s Park would have been the outcome.
The weather was perfect. The symphony of warmth and breezes enveloped us as we explored this natural, holy, place. The cleanliness and spotlessness mirrored the island’s dedication to preserving its pristine beauty.
As we eventually left the park, we found ourselves weaving through the streets of Funchal, a living canvas that blended tradition with modernity. Small local shops lined the narrow alleyways (not the kinds of alleys I see in the US, but instead, narrow avenues of community) each offering a glimpse into the island’s authentic character.
What struck me as particularly intriguing was the absence of mass-produced trinkets and souvenirs. Instead, the shops seemed like genuine retail establishments, curated to serve the discerning residents of Madeira. This nuanced approach added depth to our experience, allowing us to engage with the city’s heartbeat beyond the surface.
As we wandered through the markets and boutiques, every corner held surprises. It wasn’t just about acquiring trinkets, but about immersing ourselves in the vibrant culture of Funchal. From local crafts to food, we found treasures. They all spoke an affirmation of the island’s rich history and its dynamic present.
Our afternoon in Funchal became a statement of the joy of exploration and the beauty of stumbling upon the authentic heart of a space. The city, with its mountainous backdrop and seemingly holy parks, carved its way into the core of my travel memories. Funchal is a destination where beauty transcends the postcards. It invites you to ramble through its streets. Encourages you to linger in its parks. And it prompts you to create your own tales of discovery.
Funchal was our favorite city we visited while on our transatlantic cruise. However, there were so many other places that were also memorable and beautiful and cruising was a great way to visit multiple locales in a short amount of time. Do you wonder if cruising is for you? We have put together some information on cruising…. and have much more coming soon. Check it out HERE.
