Funchal, Madeira (Portugal)

Today is our last port of call as we make our way across the Atlantic Ocean. It was a beautiful day, warmer than expected - high 70's -, as they were experiencing warm winds from Africa.

Funchal is the capital of Madeira. The population is around 105, 795, making it the 6th largest city in Portugal. Funchal relies on tourism, bananas, and wine. Sugar cancer is also a good commodity - in fact, at one point, it was called white gold. It was founded in 1419 by sailors but not colonized until 1425. Funchal's name was given because of all the fennel that was found in the valley by the sea.

Our first stop on the tour was to a church in a small village called Monte to a church a little over over 1,500 feet above sea level. To get to it, you must climb about 171 steps up and 68 steps down. The original chapel was built in 1489 and had to be rebuilt in 1741 - 1743. We then walked down to ride the cable car that would take us to the botanical gardens.

The gardens were established in 1881 by the wealthy Reid family and are now open to the public. It includes over 2500 plant species from all over the world and has a Museum of Natural History.Read more