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If you’re planning a winter escape to Funchal, and adding a half marathon in during it, this guide is for you. I created this guide knowing that you’re legs will be tired from racing, but that doesn’t mean you don’t want to have an amazing vacation.
Where to Stay in Funchal
Pestana Carlton Madeira
4.5/5 | If you are looking for a five-star oceanfront hotel that won’t break the bank, this is your choice. The location is great if your priority is to relax over anything else. I say that because it is a 30 minute walk to downtown Funchal from this hotel.
Hotel Madeira
If you just want a low cost hotel to sleep in, this is a great option right in the center of Madeira. The hotel is clean and budget friendly, perfect for runners who plan to spend all of their time exploring.
Pestana Fisherman Village
If you are planning to rent a car for ease of exploration, this hotel is a great option with ocean views near the famous Lobos Harbour. A bit cheaper than options in Funchal, and only a short drive away.
What to Eat in Funchal
Akua
$$$ | 4.8/5 | I’m a big believer in celebrating success with a lovely meal, and Akua provided that in full for me. The seafood restaurant has a delicious menu of tasting plates that I ordered from. Since I was alone, I was able to grab a seat at the bar, but if you have a group make a reservation in advance.
Sabor Tropical
$ | 4.8/5 | If you are looking for traditional dishes from madeira, this is a great stop. I ended up going here two nights in a row because the food was so good and decently priced.
Casa do Bolo do Caco
$ | 4.5/5 | If you are looking for a quick bite, try a bolo do caco. These unique breads are made with sweet potato and topped with garlic and butter, chorizo, steak, or pork. They are great for a quick lunch if you are on the move.
Restaurante O Regional
$$ | 4.5/5 | Another traditional restaurant, this is a great spot to have some fresh fish before your race.
O Visconde
$ | 4.7/5 | If you are looking to try lapas, or grilled limpets, while in Madeira this restaurant is a great choice. The traditional restaurant is known for its friendly service and quality fish.
PORTALIANO
$$ | 4.6/5 | Carbo loading is always important, and if the bolo do caco isn’t bringing in enough carbs than try dinner at this Italian restaurant near the center of Funchal.
What to Do in Funchal
Blandy’s Wine Lodge
If you are looking for something to do post-race (or pre-race, wine does have some carbs) check out Blandy’s Wine Lodge. The tour goes into detail about Madeira Wine, a sweet wine with grapes that grow on the cliff sides of Madeira. The informative tour ends with a wine tasting so you can try the local drink for yourself.
Small group bus tour
If you aren’t planning to rent a car, doing a small group bus tour is a great choice to see more of the island. Each tour is slightly different, but most of them will take you to the glass skywalk at Cabo Girão and show you many different beautiful ocean views and waterfalls.
Jardim Botânico Funchal
On a cliff overlooking Funchal, you will find a beautiful array of flowers and plants at the Funchal Botanical Garden. There are several public buses that run from the Center of Funchal to the gardens.
Monte Palace
Built in the 18th century, this palace is home to beautiful gardens, stunning ponds, and a museum filled with art and sculptures from around the world.
Carreiros do Monte
Arguably one of the most famous activities in Funchal, and the most touristic, going sledding down the mountain side in a wicker basket is a must do experience. The price is a bit steep, just like the hills you go down. A single rider is €27.50, two riders is €35, and three riders is €52.50. You can reach the starting point via the cable car from the center of Funchal. If you also have plans to visit Monte Palace, do that first and then take the toboggans down.
