Well, today I decided to talk about one of the most stunning examples of beauty in the Madeira archipelago—the Desertas Islands, which I can see from my side window and which enchant me with their volcanic beauty and strong connection to the environment as a nature sanctuary.
The Desertas Islands form a sub-archipelago within the Madeira archipelago; are of volcanic origin, and are located southeast of Madeira Island. They consist of three islands—Ilhéu Chão, Deserta Grande, and Bugio—which administratively belong to the parish of Santa Cruz, where I live, and on clear days, the reddish and yellowish hues reflect all that scenic beauty, easily visible from the southern coast of Madeira.
The Desertas Islands are known as a haven for small birds, including the playful common murre (about 23 of which live there), as well as invertebrates such as the Desertas tarantula (Lycosa ingens), which is endemic…not to mention a wide variety of plants in the most diverse forms.
This area became a Protected Area in May 1990 and was designated a Nature Reserve in 1995. Spearfishing is prohibited throughout the entire area, and because of its very steep cliffs, access to the beaches is practically impossible; the only way to get there is by boat. Private access is restricted, but commercially, about three companies based in Funchal offer full-day tours there (from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.) at an approximate cost of 80 euros per person, with lunch included.
Swimming is permitted here, and it’s no wonder that conservationist Jacques Cousteau said he found the clearest waters in the world there. With its very pleasant water temperatures, snorkeling is almost a must-do activity for lovers of the sea. Of course, the Nature Wardens—members of the Madeira Natural Park—remain vigilant to ensure proper care for the environment.
Visiting this place is like taking a trip back in time and marveling at an incredible landscape where nature and environmental preservation go hand in hand. See for yourself that the Desertas are a unique paradise on Earth.
For more information, just send us a message… we’d be delighted to take you to explore this corner of nature.
Images: VisitMadeira and Bonita da Madeira
