VIP Event Ideas: Discover Madeira, A Colourful Island Adventure!

Ah, Madeira! This vibrant and culturally rich Portuguese island, nestled in the North Atlantic Ocean, may be small in size but it’s brimming with character and offers an endless array of activities. This makes it the perfect destination for rewards and incentives. So, whether you’re planning an incentive programme, a corporate getaway, or an exclusive VIP event, Madeira should be at the top of your list.

Touchdown in Madeira

Your journey begins with the famed “breathtaking” landing. Funchal, Madeira’s main town, is served by the Cristiano Ronaldo Airport, which features a single, 2,800-metre runway—one of the shortest in Europe. The result? A unique, slightly bumpy arrival that’s all part of the adventure. But don’t just take our word for it—experience it for yourself!

Scenery & Nature

Step off the plane and feast your eyes on Madeira’s most striking feature: its colourful landscape. Thanks to its unique microclimate, the island is a burst of warm hues and lush greenery. Nearly a quarter of Madeira remains cloaked in forest, dotted with a dazzling array of flora—from exotic Birds of Paradise to the island’s very own Prides of Madeira and Bigleaf Hydrangeas. For a deeper dive into this natural wonderland, explore one of Madeira’s many gardens, with the Madeira Botanical Garden (just northeast of Funchal) being a crowd favourite.

As you venture further inland, be prepared for a little workout. Madeira’s steep hills and winding roads are perfect for hiking, with Pico Ruivo—soaring to nearly 2,000 metres—as the ultimate challenge. So lace up your walking boots and get ready to explore!

Things to Do

Despite its modest size, Madeira packs a punch when it comes to activities, attracting a vibrant, younger crowd that’s rejuvenating the island’s nightlife. Picture yourself laughing the night away in quirky alley bars until the early hours of the morning! During the day, your choices are endless:

• Garden Hopping by Cable Car: Glide from one lush botanical garden to another, all whilst soaking in the breathtaking views.
• Mountain Adventures: Brave the trails on foot and if you find yourself too weary to descend, take a thrilling ride in a traditional Madeiran basket back down to Funchal. 
• Marine Escapades: Embark on a private cruise for an evening of dolphin and whale watching—keep your eyes peeled for everything from Great White Sharks to Blue Whales!
• Classic Car Revival: If you’re visiting in May, don’t miss this complimentary event along two miles of Funchal’s coastline, showcasing a dazzling collection of classic cars.

Madeiran Cuisine

No trip to Madeira is complete without indulging in its delicious cuisine! Fresh seafood is a staple here, with the unique specialty of espada com banana (black scabbard fish with banana) showcasing the island’s culinary creativity. Savour the flavours of bolo do caco, a traditional garlic bread, and try a Prego no Bolo do Caco, a local twist on the classic steak sandwich. And of course, a visit wouldn’t be complete without sampling the world-famous Madeira wine or trying the potent local cocktail, Poncha—a sugarcane-rum mix that truly packs a punch! For a taste of the local vibe, check out popular bars like Pukiki, Dash, and Rei da Poncha.

So Why Madeira?

Madeira is in full bloom—its growth has attracted a vibrant, youthful crowd that’s reinvigorating the nightlife, while the island’s natural beauty and unique climate continue to captivate every visitor. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a party enthusiast, a foodie, or someone who loves lounging by the pool, Madeira offers a smorgasbord of activities all packed into one small, yet incredibly diverse, island. So, pack your bags and get ready for a group incentive travel adventure that perfectly blends work, play, and relaxation. Madeira isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience waiting to happen!