Madeira is so much more than just a tourist destination, it’s an island that blends nature, tradition, gastronomy, and hospitality in a truly unique way, winning the hearts of everyone who visits.
First-time travelers are usually blown away by the breathtaking landscapes, but soon they realize that the island’s essence goes far beyond natural beauty. It’s the flavors, the walks, the festivals, the scents, and the simple traditions that make this Atlantic gem unforgettable.
If we had to choose just five things that define Madeira and that every visitor should experience, they would be: poncha, levada walks, bolo do caco, espetada, and the dramatic scenery that marks every road trip.
Let’s dive into each of them and explore why they deserve to be at the very top of your list when discovering the island by car.
Poncha: the drink that warms body and soul
No trip to Madeira is complete without tasting the famous poncha. Originally created by fishermen to warm up after long hours at sea, this traditional drink combines sugarcane brandy, honey, and lemon. Today, you’ll also find countless variations made with passion fruit, tangerine, or orange.
The ritual of making and drinking poncha is almost as important as its taste. Traditionally, it is stirred with a wooden tool called a mexelote, and sharing a glass among friends is part of Madeira’s social culture.
Driving around the island, you’ll find plenty of poncha bars, especially in Câmara de Lobos, considered the birthplace of this iconic drink. Make a stop, park your Carwave rental, and raise a glass to the Madeiran way of life!
Levada Walks: trails that reveal the island’s soul
The levadas are centuries-old irrigation channels built to transport water from the wet mountains to farmland. Today, they double as hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the island’s heart, passing through lush laurel forests, waterfalls, tunnels, and green valleys.
Some of the most popular hikes include the Levada dos 25 Fontes, Levada do Caldeirão Verde, and Levada do Rei. Each one reveals a different perspective of Madeira’s natural richness, with many areas classified as UNESCO World Heritage.
Having a car is essential to reach the starting points of many levadas, as they are scattered across the island and not easily accessible by public transport. With Carwave, you can plan your own itinerary and choose between easy family-friendly walks or more challenging trails for adventurous spirits.
Bolo do Caco: the bread that tastes like tradition
If there’s one flavor that stays in your memory after visiting Madeira, it’s the bolo do caco. This round flatbread, baked on a hot basalt stone, is best enjoyed warm with garlic butter melting into its surface. Simple, yet absolutely irresistible.
Bolo do caco pairs with almost everything: it’s the perfect side for a juicy espetada, a quick snack with chorizo, or just a treat on its own. You’ll find it in almost every traditional restaurant on the island, especially in the mountains where hearty meals are a way of life.
During your road trip, make sure to stop at a small tavern or local eatery to taste this Madeiran staple. It’s more than just bread it’s a piece of the island’s soul.
Espetada: flavor, tradition, and togetherness
The espetada madeirense is one of the island’s most iconic dishes and a must-try for any food lover. Prepared with chunks of beef skewered on bay laurel sticks, seasoned with coarse salt, and grilled over open flames, it’s a dish that combines simplicity with unforgettable flavor.
Traditionally served with bolo do caco and fried cornmeal cubes (milho frito), espetada is more than just a meal it’s an experience of togetherness. Families and friends gather around the grill, celebrating not only the food but also the joy of sharing.
As you travel through Madeira, set aside time to enjoy an espetada in one of the traditional restaurants, often located in the mountains. The smoky aroma, combined with the rustic setting, will be one of the highlights of your trip.
Dramatic Scenery: landscapes that take your breath away
No list about Madeira would be complete without its landscapes, the island is like a natural amphitheater where mountains meet the deep Atlantic Ocean. Every road trip reveals a new scene: towering cliffs, dense forests, panoramic viewpoints, and charming villages.
From Cabo Girão, one of Europe’s highest sea cliffs, to the secluded valley of Curral das Freiras, or the natural pools of Porto Moniz on the north coast, Madeira constantly surprises with its dramatic scenery.
Exploring by car gives you the freedom to stop whenever you wish to snap photos, enjoy the fresh air, or simply admire the beauty. With us, every kilometer becomes part of an unforgettable journey.
Madeira is known for its lively poncha, unforgettable levada walks, the comforting bolo do caco, the smoky espetada, and its breathtaking landscapes. But more than each of these experiences individually, it’s the combination of all five that makes the island so special.
Exploring Madeira by car is the best way to enjoy all of this at your own pace. With Carwave, you have the freedom to design your own route, discover hidden gems, stop for authentic meals, and immerse yourself in every curve of the road.
If you’re planning your next trip, don’t think twice book your car now and discover why Madeira is known for these things… and so much more.
