Madeira

This pocket-sized full-colour guide to walking in Madeira is designed for visitors who would like to combine some enticing walks with the best local cooking. Many of the walks are along the 'levada' paths so beloved of visitors. Levadas are watercourses that carry rainfall from the mountains to irrigate the cultivated terraces. But even 'non-walkers' will appreciate the recommendations for eating out in Madeira. For each suggested restaurant there is a photograph of the decor and one of their dishes, plus sample menu, price guide, opening times and a recipe for one of their specialities. Other sections include: planning your trip, logistics on arrival, local markets and specialities, glossary of local food terms, and a restaurant mini-vocabulary. A special feature is the emphasis on natural local foods suitable for those with food intolerances. All recipes have been made by the authors and are known to 'work'. The 13 walks are dotted all around the island, and are of the easy-to-moderate grade. But note: There is some overlapping of walk routes between this book and 'Landscapes of Madeira' by the same authors. Do check the contents of both guides to compare coverage and see which book might best suit you.