Cameron Yorke
Madeira celebrates its second ever Gay Pride Festival on Saturday 6th October 2018. This looks set to become an annual event after the huge popularity of the inaugural pride march last year. 2018 promises to be even bigger, with celebrations scheduled over three days. Rooftop and pool parties are scheduled in locations throughout the city of Funchal. Boat cruises and the main Pride March are highlights, along with a host of other activities for every taste.
Madeira doesn’t have a structured gay scene, as most of the cool, stylish bars in Funchal are gay friendly. The locals are all pretty laid back and most are accepting of the LGBT community on the island. If cruising is your thing, you’ll find lots of eye candy at night in the parks along the waterfront. During the day the Lido swimming complex is a must! This public swimming pool was newly renovated last year and attracts huge crowds on sunny days. It features fresh ocean water, communal hot showers, and diving platforms for plunges into the crystal clear ocean below.
Situated opposite the Straights of Gibraltar, in the Atlantic Ocean, the weather is fabulous almost all year round. The locals boast of swimming in the sea on Christmas Day, however the best seasons are Spring and Autumn. This means the weather for this years Gay Pride festivities in early October should be perfect!
No Longer Only for ‘Newlyweds and the Nearly Dead!’
The Island is famous for its style and sophistication. Previously known as a holiday destination for ‘newly weds and the nearly dead’, due to its popularity with honeymooners and retirees, this scene is rapidly changing. There are now an enormous range of adventure and extreme activities for the younger traveller to enjoy. Try cannoning, off-road 4-wheel driving, deep-sea diving, game fishing or whale and dolphin watching. Choose from literally hundreds of walking trails through the mountains, all meticulously maintained, and at various levels of difficulty. Most of the food you will enjoy on Madeira is organic, and locally grown or caught. Choose from sumptuous seafood and beautifully seasoned meats. The lush semi-tropical fruits and vegetables are sublime, along with excellent quality locally produced wines and liquors. You can also book half-day cooking courses where you will learn to replicate the delicious local dishes!
With so much to do in such an idyllic location, why not visit for a week either side of Pride? Indulge yourself and soak up the cool swag and vibe of this most special jewel of the Atlantic.
For further information, on where to stay and what to do and see, visit
