Back in the Middle Ages, the commonly held belief was that the world was flat.  It took a great deal of courage to set sail, armed only with square-rigged ships, and primitive navigation equipment.  Some were prepared to explore, to sail towards "the edge", and discovered that in fact, they didn't fall off, and the edge kept moving to some point in the distance.

And so it was, in the early 15th century, under the patronage of the Infante Dom Henrique (Prince Henry the Navigator), that two intrepid captains set sail to navigate and map the coast of West Africa.  Portugal's age of discovery had begun.

Blown off course by stormy weather, the ships were lucky enough to find a tiny island, a needle of land in the haystack of the Atlantic Ocean.  It was 1419, and the sailors had discovered Porto Santo, a charming island with a long swathe of golden beach, about two hours sailing time from the larger island of Madeira.

Encouraged by Prince Henry to explore beyond Porto Santo, it was a further year before ships crossed the treacherous currents of Ponta de São Lourenço, to discover the lush, mountainous, heavily forested island of Madeira and claim it for Portugal.

Today, Madeira is still part of Portugal.  Its inhabitants speak Portuguese, they carry Portuguese passports, use the Euro, and  vote in Portuguese elections, although the islands, like the Azores, do have their own regional government.  While Madeira might be part of Portugal, most islanders are proud to be distinctly Madeiran.

Thanks to its spectacular natural environment and mild climate, the islands have long attracted visitors keen to escape from colder climates further north. The main island of Madeira is a little short of sandy beaches, and is instead popular with outdoor sports enthusiasts. The island is also a haven for walkers. One of the most important features of the island is the Laurissilva Forest, classified a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site.

Madeira's capital is Funchal, declared a city in 1508 by Royal Charter, issued by King Manuel I. The business, tourist and cultural heart of the Madeira Archipelago, the city has plenty to offer. There are elegant gardens to admire, pretty cobbled streets and squares to explore, and a multitude of pavement cafés where one can sit and relax.