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Country - Portugal
The mountainous island of Madeira lies in the Atlantic Ocean off the Moroccan coast. Its cragged peaks are merely the tip of a gigantic volcano that plunges 4000m (13,200ft) below sea level to the ocean floor. Madeira derives its name from the forests that covered the uninhabited island when the first seafarers arrived in 1351 – they named it “The Island of Wood” (Madeira = wood in Portuguese).
Today, Madeira is an autonomous region of Portugal. The north of the island remains heavily forested, the middle is unpopulated and mountainous whilst the south is cultivated and supports most of the population.
Madeira's year-round spring-like climate is legendary. The moderate influence of the Atlantic keeps the summer time temperatures to below 30°C (86°F). May sees a profusion of blossom, warm days and mild evenings – all ideal for hiking through the mountains.
The island has an abundance of fish, fruit and fresh vegetables. The local cuisine features these ingredients strongly, often pepped up with spices. There is plenty of red meat available, and vegetarian tastes are well catered for.
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