Since today is our last day in Funchal, we decided to spend the day in Zone Velha (Old Town). A historic zone in Funchal.
We started our morning leisurely savoring breakfast at a newly discovered cafe, Brunch Club. There was a short line when we arrived but it was well worth it. Everything from the lattes to the juices to each dish was delicious. I veered from my comfort zone and ordered the Turkish Eggs which a unique twist on eggs, cheese and toast. The Lebanese cheese was smooth and tangy surrounded by an herb oil and eggs centered in the middle. Just delicious.🤤
After breakfast we spent several hours meandering the narrow street and adjoining alleys of Rua Santa Maria. The streets were bustling, there were plenty of shops and restaurants, and many of the doors and building surfaces were art. City art seems to be integral to the Portugese culture and something we came across all over Mainland Portugal and now, this island. Introducing today’s blog and below are just a few favorites we took photos of.
During our walk, we stopped at a pottery studio I read about called Lillie Ceramics. It is a sister owned studio and shop with the most beautiful and vibrant pottery I have seen. Being a potter, I really appreciated all the pieces and the time invested in making them. Both Eliza and I bought a few pieces. I also had the opportunity to speak to the sisters who were very warm and open about their technique which I truly appreciated. Unfortunately.. we were so wrapped up in browsing their work and talking to them that we neglected to take any pictures! Soo.. on with the outdoor art we encountered nearby.
Around 2 PM and after walking plenty under the hot sun, we decided it was siesta time so we stopped at Banana Pub for a beverage and rest before making the trek back to the apartment. The topography, architecture and vegetation was so interesting every turn we took.
Our last outing was to dinner in Old Town at the Restaurante Lá ao Fundo which is highly rated and is known for serving Madeira dishes with inspiration from Africa. The food was exceptional. Each course was unique and even served in a specific manner to complement the dish. We ate slowly – enjoying every bite and trying each other’s dishes. After midnight and a 3.5 hour supper, we made our way back home.
It was a great night. We had so much fun talking to our neighboring table mates and laughing, it had Eliza dancing in the streets to live music. Of course, the bottle of rose we shared might have had some influence. 🤣
Next stop, the Santa Cruz region. We pick up our car which means the following blog entries will include even more lush sceneries and unique landscapes. Good night. 🌙
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