Levadas and such.

The plan was to get away from the cold and rain in sunny Madeira and even though it is winter here the temperatures are around 18C, the second part of the plan was to walk the levadas which are irrigation channels up in the hills but yesterday I undertook a walk to the peninsula at the far west of the island as recommended by the Saga rep, the views were stunning and the weather perfect if a little windy, to be honest after the marathon walk put on by Aled last Saturday I could have done with something a little less strenuous but fortunately my hotel room has a bath to soak the aching body. I have met a few of the Saga guests and they seem a nice bunch but all couples, however Anne one of the 4 amigos from the Santorini trip is here so I at least have someone to interact and walk with. Today I am taking the day off to explore the capital Funchal but as everything in Madeira seems to include a glass of Madeira wine or the local rum punch I will leave the car behind and stroll in to town.