- Barry and I tried out one of the most unique transports in the world, but I’ll get to that later. If you can believe it the sunrise is the view from our Quinta. After an outdoor breakfast (most of our meals this entire trip have been outdoors) we headed out over the spine of the volcanic mountains above 3000′ to Ribeiro Frio. I don’t think any of us can count the number of acute hairpin turns as we wound our way up the mountain – think driving the Amalfi Coast.There we started out by exploring of all things a trout hatchery and farm. The main attraction here though is the hiking trails, called Levadas. The trails were actually built to service the alpine irrigation channels created to bring water from the north side of the island where it rains more frequently to the south. The hiking was generally gentle to follow the flow of the water, and sometimes narrow, but always with a great view lurking just around the next corner. We reached a special overlook that gave us 360* views even to the Atlantic to the north. Just for fun I climbed a series of rocks there to improve the view even a bit more.
- After that is was off to the town of Monte with manicured gardens, eateries, and most importantly the Tabuas of Madeira, or the snowless sled ride. These sleds were originally designed to transport goods from Monte and the mountains down to Funchal. Made of wicker with wooden runners, the runners are greased with lard and then down you go through the narrow streets and alleyways towards Funchal with two sled guides dressed in historically traditional white who help steer the sled and keep your speed under control. It was not as hair raising as the guidebooks made it sound, but it was fun and a unique experience. After a traditional lunch including Espatada – skewered beef, chicken, and prawns it was back to the hotel for some R & R. Dinner at the hotel included music, singing and another traditional Madeira dish, Espada, or Scabbard fish, pictured here.
- One last day tomorrow.
