Caves of Sao Vicente and Volcanism Center, Funchal, Portugal
Sao Vicente Caves and Volcanism Centre in Funchal, Portugal, opened to the public in 1996, are among the first volcanic caves opened to the public in the country. The caves were first reported by locals in 1885. The Volcanic Centre, housed in a pavilion, offers educational and entertaining audiovisual displays. These displays illustrate evolution of the caves, simulation of the birth of the Madeira Islands, and volcanic eruption.
There are many fun things to do in the area, such as visiting Museum-Residence of Guerra Junqueiro in the nearby city of Porto. It was established upon the order of Domingos Barbosa in the early 18th century. Today, it has an auditorium, shop, and temporary exposition hall. Tourists should also visit Estadio do Dragao in Porto. Inaugurated in 2003, it currently serves as the home of FC Porto. With a capacity of 50,033, it is the third biggest stadium in the country in terms of capacity. Another interesting, nearby site to visit is Soares dos Reis National Museum. Established in 1833, it is the first national museum in the country to feature collections of Portuguese art. It was named after Antonio Soares dos Reis, a Portuguese sculptor. There are a ton of fine hotels near the center, including the Estalagem Do Vale which is just less than a mile away from the centre. The 4-star hotel offers a laundry room, an arcade room, and a health club/gym. Another hotel you can stay is the cozy Estalagem Do Mar, which has a fitness center and outdoor tennis court.
