Grumpy in Madeira

Bom Dia

A little while ago we went out East, there was a Medieval Festa in Machico. It’s said to be the place where the first explorer’s landed in 1419.

The first stop was a little village near the airport. This village is Santa Cruz (Holy Cross). We enjoy going here for the Taberna do Petisco.

It’s located right in the village. It serves one of the best Polvo (octopus) picados on the island.

It also make’s the best tangerina ponchas known to man.

It’s like drinking pure tangerines. It’s very dangerous. You think it’s just fruit juice until you come to leave. Suddenly, your legs don’t work.

The village is really quaint, with a village church and bars, restaurants, cafe’s and hotels. There is a Lido area and kiddies area on the promenade. There is also a local market selling fresh produce daily.

There is another little bar on the promenade that we like. You can sit here having a cerveja and watch the planes land. They come in right above you.

From here it’s on to Machico, it’s about 10 mins away by car, on the other side of the airport.

It’s bigger and busier than Santa Cruz. There are more shops and restaurants in the town.

There is a long promenade with lots of food stalls and arts and crafts. At the far end of the promenade, there is a marina. There is also a nice sandy beach.

This Festa is a 16th Century theme and it’s one of the biggest.

There were lots of food stalls. Everyone dressed up in medieval costumes. There were BBQ’s on the beach. There were lots and lots of activities.

There was a children’s area and even horse riding for the kids. The princesses really loved that.

It went on until late into the night. They had a big stage with bands and singers. There was also a fire show.

It was a great day.

We’re off to Porto Moniz for their big Festa next.

Watch this space!!!!