Canico holidays

The village is home to a number of bars and restaurants where you can sample a good mix of fare from international plates to authentic specialities. La Terraca is the place to go for local food with its fish of the day proving an excellent choice and its tasty espetada, large chunks of beef skewered onto a large stick, offering a unique dining experience. There’s some interesting dishes here when you want to fully immerse yourself in the culture, and black scabbard fish is one of them. Found in the depths of the Atlantic Ocean, this uncommon catch is surprisingly tasty despite its unpleasant appearance. For dessert it’s all about passion fruit pudding, and we’re pretty sure you can guess its main ingredient. After working your way through Canico’s many menus, it’s time to see what beverages are on offer. Wine lovers will be over the moon with the island’s distinct fortified bottles, from sweet aromas to dry after-tastes – you won’t be disappointed. If you spot locals drinking a tasty orange coloured drink, that’s Poncha, the island’s most iconic beverage which is found right across the island.

Set inside a nature reserve, Praia do Garajau is a black sand beach which is an ideal spot to soak up Madeira’s endless sunshine. Overlooked by large cliffs, you can choose to walk or take the cable car. The water isn’t great for swimming as it can get choppy, but there’s nothing to stop you dipping your toes in when you need to cool off. While, snorkeling and diving comes highly recommended as this beach is considered one of the best diving spots on the island thanks to its abundance of groupers, who are known for swimming extremely close. Alternatively, most people stick to Canico’s main beach, just beside the promenade. Praia dos Reis Magos comes with a flashy Blue Flag status and two sections – one is an area of unprotected sand and the other is a lido where you can enjoy perfect swimming conditions all year round.

There is so much to keep you occupied when you come to Canico. Whether you want to see the island’s scenic side, laze on its pebble beaches or take pictures beside a large statue of christ, this is all possible here. Its underwater adventures are just as popular as its land-based excursions with marine life aplenty. Plus, the island’s capital Funchal is just down the road, where one-of-a-kind experiences, sightseeing opportunities and natural attractions await.

Marvel at Miradouro Cristo Rei do Garajau: Extremely similar to Rio’s world-famous Christ the Redeemer, this stand-out landmark was the original and dates back to 1927. Standing 14 metres high on the headland, just above Garajau Marine Reserve, the views of the coastline are unbeatable. And if you keep walking along the cliffside, you may just catch a glimpse of the Bay of Funchal appearing in the distance. Just below the monument sits a beach, which you can take a cable car to.

Spend the day in Funchal: Just 10 minutes down the road sits Madeira’s vibrant capital Funchal. Even if it’s just a fleeting visit, you’re sure to enjoy every moment. The charming city centre is the way to start with its striking architecture coupled with cobbled streets. Boasting dramatic scenery on all sides, look out over cloud-covered mountains and dazzling gardens. There’s so much to see too, whether you choose to visit the Museu CR7, a museum dedicated to Madeiran-born Cristiano Ronaldo, hop in a wicker toboggan and whiz through winding streets or take to the skies with cable car ride providing matchless views of the city.