After cruising through the night and most of the next day we reached our first port of call, Funchal, Madeira late afternoon
We joined fellow passengers for our first excursion and were soon leaving Funchal behind as we climbed to our first stop Eira do Serrado one of the most beautiful locations in Madeira.
Eira do Serrado lies at the very centre of the island at an impressive elevation of 3,592 feet. However, thick low clouds enveloped the central massif and the incredible view down the valley was not to be.
Instead, at a local inn/store, we were treated to a tasting of a Portuguese liqueur "ginja", some of the party enjoyed the taste but I found it too sweet and cloying. As well as the typical souvenir samples for sale there was a very impressive display of bottles dating back many years .
We didn't buy any but in typical tourist fashion we bought the T shirt!
Our next stop was lower down the mountain at the Pico dos Barcelos, 1100 feet above sea level, where we enjoyed the panoramic view over Funchal Bay, the city and a glimpse of the rocky Desertas Islands in the background before returning to the ship.
Sounds like a lovely first excursion on your cruise, Maggie! Too bad the fog obscured the view.
ReplyDeleteStill peeps of the loveliness of Madeira despite some fog! Hope the rest oft he trip was sunny and bright. Love the photo of you both!
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