Called “The Pearl of the Atlantic,” Madeira is a lush and mountainous paradise and the jewel in the Madeira Islands crown. Formed by volcanic eruptions long ago, the island offers adventure options galore, like hiking 6,100-foot Pico Ruivo, the island’s tallest peak. Offshore, the blue water is so deep that whales sometimes swim near land. Funchal, the capital, is home to 100,000 people, a unique culture and attractions like the 15th century Sé (Cathedral) and Museu da Quinta das Cruzes.