Summer on Madeira Island | A Day in Fanal Forest & Câmara de Lobos
Hello everyone, how have you been? Today I want to bring you along for a special day that captures the essence of summer on Madeira Island. Even after living here for five years, I still find myself in awe of the beauty and rhythm of this place — especially during these long, golden summer days.
From the mystical Fanal Forest high in the mountains to the charming coastal town of Câmara de Lobos, this day had it all: nature, food, laughter, and a dip in the ocean to cool off. It’s one of those days that reminds me why Madeira feels like home, and why summer here is so magical.
Let’s begin in the forest.
Morning Adventure: Exploring Fanal Forest
The day began with a trip to one of the most magical places I know — Fanal Forest. It’s often described as a sacred forest here on Madeira Island, and I can understand why. These ancient laurel trees date back to the Laurisilva era, around 20 million years ago, and walking among them feels like stepping into another world.
The forest sits at about 1,150 meters altitude, so the air is thinner, cool, and often humid. These trees are actually responsible for collecting much of the water that nourishes Madeira. It’s fascinating to think about how intelligent nature is, quietly sustaining life on the island.
When Joen and I first moved here five years ago, Fanal was almost empty. Hardly any tourists made their way up here. Today, it’s much busier, and while it’s wonderful that more people get to experience it, I sometimes miss the quiet, almost mystical atmosphere it had back then.
This time, I came with Lara and my friend Winby. We didn’t film much — sometimes it’s better just to be present — but being surrounded by this ancient forest still left me breathless. Both literally, because of the altitude, and emotionally, because of its timeless beauty.
After our walk, it was time to head home, refreshed and ready to ease into the rest of the day.
Home Again: Work and Ayurvedic Cooking
After a long walk through the forest, Lara and I headed home for showers — much needed after the humid mountain air. With clean clothes and fresh energy, it was time to spend a couple of hours working and, of course, replying to your sweet comments. Honestly, the little community we’re building here means the world to me. Thank you for being here.
As Joen wrapped up his workday, I started on an early dinner. Lately, we’ve been eating a lot of Ayurvedic food, and tonight’s dish was kitchari. It’s such a grounding meal — warm, nourishing, and designed to support balance in the body.
I really enjoy this way of eating. It doesn’t feel restrictive, but rather like a steady rhythm that helps me tune into what my body needs. It’s not about fast results or dieting, but about listening, aligning, and enjoying food that actually feels good. And honestly? It tastes amazing, too.
Another thing I love about cooking kitchari is that it gives me time to clean the kitchen before eating. Some of you already know this about me: I can’t fully enjoy a meal unless the kitchen is tidy. Cooking, cleaning, and then sitting down to eat feels like closing a little ritual.
With dinner done and the evening light turning golden, we decided to make the most of the summer weather and take a scooter trip to one of my favorite towns nearby.
Evening Escape: Scooter Ride to Câmara de Lobos
The weather had cleared beautifully by evening, so Joen and I hopped on the scooter with Lara for a little adventure. She loves riding with us — ears in the wind, eyes wide with excitement. Honestly, I think the scooter might be one of her favorite things in the world.
Our destination was Câmara de Lobos, a charming coastal town not far from our home. The drive there is stunning, winding along the coastline with endless views of the sea. Arriving in town always feels like stepping into a postcard — colorful houses, narrow streets, and the bay dotted with traditional fishing boats.
This town has such a creative soul. Every summer, locals decorate the streets with handmade art installations crafted from recycled materials and ocean waste. It’s a beautiful reminder of how community spirit and creativity can transform a place.
We came to swim, cool down, and just soak in the summer vibes. And clearly, we weren’t alone — the whole town seemed to be out enjoying the evening sun and the ocean.
Summer Vibes by the Sea
The bay at Câmara de Lobos was alive with laughter, splashes, and the kind of energy that only comes with long summer evenings. We jumped straight into the water — cool, refreshing, and exactly what we needed after a warm day. Even Lara looked tempted to join. She’s actually a good swimmer when the water is calm, but this time she decided to watch from the shore.
The town itself is famous for its traditional fishing boats, brightly painted and bobbing in the harbor. They’ve been here for generations, and looking at them always gives me such a cozy feeling — a little glimpse into the island’s heritage.
Walking through the town, Lara had a burst of energy, pulling us along with enthusiasm. There are quite a few stray dogs here, and while they’re usually sweet and harmless, many of them have fleas, so we kept a little distance.
We ended the evening with something local: a drink called Nikita. It’s almost like a milkshake, but with a tropical twist. I had pineapple, Joen chose passionfruit, and both were delicious. Sweet, creamy, refreshing — the perfect ending to a summer day. Of course, Lara got a little taste too.
Closing Reflections on Island Living
As the sun dipped lower over the ocean, I felt so grateful for this day. From the mystical Fanal Forest in the morning to the lively streets and bay of Câmara de Lobos in the evening, it was one of those days that reminds me why I love summer on Madeira Island so much.
Life here has its rhythms — cooking simple Ayurvedic meals, working from home, hopping on the scooter for spontaneous swims, and ending the day with something sweet in town. It’s not about constant excitement, but about small moments that add up to a life that feels full, balanced, and connected.
Thank you for being here with me and sharing these little glimpses of island life. I hope this post gave you a sense of the magic Madeira has to offer in summer.
And as always, you’re more than welcome to connect with me on Instagram @DearJamilaa. Hugs x
No Comments