Coffee moments and an unexpected coffee farm…
Earlier this year I was lucky to have a lovely weekend away – in Madeira. I had already researched a couple of coffee spots and I have to say Madeira exceeded my coffee expectations! We also loved sampling other local beverages – the Madeira Wine and traditional Poncha were a must. But my three coffee highlights were a high-up coffee shop, a visit to a coffee farm and coffee with my dear friend’s parents.
Local Shop – Coffee by ODD Coffee Roasters (local roaster on the island).
If you’ve ever been to Madeira you’ll have probably enjoyed a cable car ride from Funchal up to visit the stunning Botanical Gardens – well, if you’re going there I highly recommend stopping in at the little café (with an amazing view) just off to the right away from the busy area – It’s called Local Shop and the espresso and gelato are delicious – especially after a stunning walk through the tropical trees!
Fazenda Sa – a little coffee farm like no other.
Just a short drive from the centre of the popular tourist city of Funchal, . A coffee plantation and orchard, this is a haven with a story, a vision and a view.
Founded by Jorge Cipriano Sa as a tribute to his father, on the site of their family home, this is a real working coffee plantation, producing small local batches to be enjoyed on the island (I tried to get some green beans but they said they weren’t for export 😉).
I had a wonderful guided tour of the coffee plants and abundant fruit trees. I tasted the delicious coffee with a biscuit and learned about the amazing fruits of the island. I highly recommend booking a tour if you’re going to Madeira!
Coffee reunion.
I was unaware that Madeira is such a popular choice for people to go back to year after year (I can understand why having visited). We met several people who were visiting the island for their more than twentieth time! As it happened the parents of a very dear friend were staying in their regular hotel spot so I couldn’t resist the chance for a coffee catch up with them! We shared family stories and memories – one of my favourite types of coffee moments.
Top Tips
Travelling away from your daily cup of sanity can be simple and fun – my top tips are:
- Take some ground coffee (and maybe some mini filters) with you
- Research local coffee roasters in the area you’re visiting
- Stay open – you never know what treasures you’ll find and which special people you’ll meet 😊
Enjoy your summer, coffee lovers and make wonderful coffee memories!