Porto da Cruz in Steam
Engenhos do Norte – A Historic Spectacle Awaits You! Imagine stepping into a world where time stands still. The steam engines throb to a disco beat, and the sweet scent of sugar cane fills the air. You can practically feel the history embedded in the old walls of Engenhos do Norte in Porto da Cruz. Starting March 24th, the historic steam engines of the rum distillery come to life for two months, transforming the picturesque village into a living museum of sugar cane processing. A Journey into the Past Engenhos do Norte is not just a rum distillery, but a living monument to the industrial revolution. The impressive steam engines, still in operation today, date back to the early 20th century and are a testament to Madeira’s rich tradition of sugar cane processing. When the machines are running, it’s like taking a trip back in time. You can feel the power of the machines as they crush the sugar cane stalks delivered by the farmers. The emerging sweet juice, which forms the basis for the famous Madeira rum, is collected in large vats. A must-see for anyone interested in traditional craftsmanship and the history of sugar cane processing. The loud rattling, hissing, and stamping of the machines create a unique atmosphere that you won’t soon forget. A Feast for the Senses A visit to Engenhos do Norte during the harvest season is a feast for the senses. In addition to the impressive sight of the steam engines and the interesting production process, visitors can also enjoy the scent of freshly pressed sugar cane and the taste of the finished rum. At “Casa do Rum,” you have the opportunity to taste various rums and experience the quality of the local product. Practical Information The steam engines will be in operation for two months starting March 24th and can be visited daily. Opening Hours: Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this unique spectacle and immerse yourself in the history of sugar cane processing in Madeira. Engenhos do Norte in Porto da Cruz is an absolute must-see. Porto da Cruz is accessible by public bus with the lines 53, 103 and 208 of SIGA CAM This is a screenshot from the interactive travel guide MADEIRA BY BUS and shows the departure times in Funchal. Additional tips for local activities and the return schedule to Funchal can be found in the guide. Further information: www.madeira-by-bus.com/read
Why is Paul do Mar missing?
Why is Paul do Mar Missing in the Travel Guide? “Why aren’t the beautiful places Paul do Mar and Jardim do Mar in the west in your travel guide?” I’m often asked this question, and the answer is very banal (unfortunately).Although both places can be reached by public bus, the times are absolutely unsuitable for day tourists. Here is an overview: SIGA Rodoeste, Bus line 115: Funchal direction Paul do Mar: departure 16:05, arrival Paul do Mar: 19:00Paul do Mar direction Funchal: Departure 6:00 a.m. This bus line takes working people to Funchal in the morning and back in the evening. During the day there is no further service on this line. SIGA Rodoeste, Bus line 80: Funchal to Porto Moniz via Paul do Mar: Departure 10:00 a.m. (Monday-Friday only). Arrival in Paul do Mar: approx. 12:00 noon Paul do Mar in the direction of Funchal: Not possible with line 80, as the route only runs back via the ER 222 (i.e. not along the sea). SIGA Rodoeste, Bus line 142: Funchal direction Ponta do Pargo via Paul do Mar: No connection, the bus goes via Prazeres and the ER 222 to Ponta do Pargo.Paul do Mar direction Funchal: Departure at 14:15 (Mondays-Fridays only) It is possible to travel to Paul do Mar at 10 a.m. on line 80. The bus arrives at 12 noon and line 142 returns to Funchal at 2:15 pm. Conclusion: In our opinion, the approx. 2-hour stopover bears no relation to the total journey time of just under 5 hours. Unless you’re a bus junkie …