The Olá Madeira Journal
Madeira news and island culture
Festivals, food, football, folklore: everything that is happening in Madeira. Written on the island, by the Olá Madeira team.
Madeira news, culture and island life
Latest stories
Olá Madeira publishes news and culture about Madeira to make your trip better. Every story is written by the hosts who live here. Newest first, filtered by news or culture.
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Keep exploring
You have read the stories. Here is everything else you need to book a stay and fill the days around it.
Read the guides
When to go, where to stay, the best levada hikes and ready-made itineraries for three days upwards.
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What is on while you are here: Carnival, the Flower Festival, concerts and the food fairs across the island.
Our stays
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Madeira's New Poncha Passport: 24 Bars, One Stamp Each
Madeira's new poncha passport maps 24 bars from Achadas da Cruz to Caniçal. Buy the booklet, order a poncha, collect a stamp. Here is every stop, linked.
Cristiano Ronaldo Leaves the Portugal Camp: What We Know
Cristiano Ronaldo has walked out of Portugal's training camp in Copenhagen and promised to explain why in time. What happened, and what the rules allow.
Nacional's New Coach Alexandre Santos Arrives Five Games Late
Nacional have their second coach of the season. Who Alexandre Santos is, why João Gião went after four rounds, and how to get to a game at Choupana.
Wind Turbine Transport in Madeira: What Drivers Should Expect
Turbine blades and towers are moving up to Paul da Serra until the end of September, mostly overnight. Which roads are affected, and what to expect.
Madeira-Born Moisés Henriques Leads Portugal to a Cricket Qualifier Win
Portugal beat Spain by 57 runs in Finland on 21 August to win their T20 World Cup qualifier, captained by Funchal-born Moisés Henriques. What comes next.
Ponta do Pargo Could Get Madeira's Second Casino
Madeira has had one casino for fifty years. The terms of reference for the new Funchal gaming concession quietly allow for a second, at Ponta do Pargo, attached to the golf project.
Solar Eclipse Visible in Madeira August 2026
Madeira sits outside the path of totality on 12 August 2026 — but around 77% of the sun will vanish behind the Moon as it sets over the Atlantic. Here's where to stand, when to be there, and why eclipse glasses stay on the whole time.
Fun Family Walk for Cancer Awareness Returns to Madeira
Fun Family Walk for Cancer Awareness Returns to Madeira – Join the Shuffling Walking Team on 26 July 2026
Miguel Paiva Earns His FIFA Football Agent Licence
After two years, technical setbacks and a lot of determination, Miguel Paiva has earned his FIFA Football Agent Licence.
Festa da Lapa Returns to Paúl do Mar This July
Festa da Lapa is back in Paúl do Mar this July, now a two-day festival, as organisers balance celebration with protecting Madeira's limpets.
Portugal 2–1 Chile: Seleção Das Quinas Win — But Not Without Drama
Portugal beat Chile 2–1 in a World Cup friendly on 6 June 2026, goals from Guedes and Fernandes, a Leão red card, and Ronaldo subbed at half-time. Match report inside.
The Funchal Cable Car’s Thrilling New Upgrade
Glide above the city! The iconic Funchal cable car reopens featuring thrilling new glass-floor cabins and panoramic island views.
A High-Profile Visit Stirs Up Funchal
Former South African President Jacob Zuma's recent private visit and birthday celebration in Funchal sparks local discussion.
Nacional Fight for Survival as Marítimo Chase Promotion Glory
The 2025/2026 football season brings high stakes to Madeira. Follow Nacional’s survival battle and Marítimo’s promotion push.
Could CR7 Get Married in Madeira?
Reports suggest Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodríguez are planning a spectacular 2026 summer wedding at Funchal Cathedral.
Heads up if you’re flying to or from Portugal!
Air travel in Portugal could see some turbulence, not in the air, but on the ground.
