Madeira with the TAMRON 28-75mm F/2.8 G2

We laced up our hiking boots early in the morning for one of the most spectacular experiences of our trip: the Vereda do Areeiro trail. Just in time for sunrise, we reached the starting point at Pico do Arieiro, where golden light cast a dramatic glow over the rugged mountain peaks. With plenty of time for breaks and photos, we set off on our hike, knowing that a long and unforgettable day lay ahead. Right at the beginning, the now-famous Pedra Rija viewpoint stairs – widely shared on social media – led us along a narrow ridge, with steep rock faces plunging dramatically on either side. The panoramic trail continued through tunnels carved into volcanic rock, past deep ravines, and into a haunting landscape of dead trees – a constant play of light and shadow, effort and awe. After a short rest at a mountain hut, we reached Pico Ruivo in the early afternoon – Madeira’s highest peak – where the 360-degree view made us pause in silence. On the way back to the starting point, new perspectives opened up, and the ever-changing weather transformed the landscape with every kilometer. Just before reaching the end, the setting sun bathed the mountains in magical light while thick fog settled into the valleys.

For maximum flexibility, I kept my camera clipped to the shoulder strap of my backpack throughout the entire hike, so it was always ready to use without taking off the pack – especially helpful on the narrower sections of the trail. Thanks to the versatility of my TAMRON 28–75mm F/2.8 G2, I was able to capture both sweeping landscapes and close-up details of the surrounding vegetation and wildlife – a lens that truly proved to be the perfect companion for the day.

High above Funchal lies a beautifully designed garden, rich with atmosphere. Asian-style bridges, gently cascading waterfalls, and exotic plants created an almost enchanted setting – a true feast for the senses, and of course, for my camera. Thanks to the close focusing distance of just 38 cm at the 75mm end, I was able to capture even the most delicate plant details that caught my eye and sparked my fascination.

Along the rugged coastline of São Jorge, we explored the striking ruins of an old sugarcane mill. Nestled between lush vegetation and the crashing waves of the Atlantic, weathered walls and arched stone doorways now frame stunning views of the sea. The wider focal lengths allowed me to beautifully capture the expansive coastline, while the 75mm setting was perfect for freezing the raw power of the waves. A cat appeared between the crumbling walls, and thanks to the lens’s fast aperture, I was able to isolate it against a soft, dreamy bokeh.

The coastline of Ribeira da Janela revealed its most beautiful side at sunset. The sun had already dipped below the horizon when the sky began to glow in soft pastel tones. Rising from the sea, the dramatic rock spire stood out as a dark, sharply defined contrast against the calm water – utterly captivating. As the last light of day wrapped the coast in a dreamy atmosphere, I was still able to shoot handheld thanks to the wide F/2.8 aperture. This allowed me to capture the delicate reflections on the water and the impressive rock formations – a final, peaceful moment before darkness gently brought the day to a close.

Madeira is not just a place you visit – it’s a place you experience. With its ever-changing mix of mountains, wild coastlines, green oases, and dramatic light, every hour felt truly unique. The locations described here are just a small glimpse of what we were able to discover on the island. Madeira is defined by its striking contrasts, shifting with every kilometer. Anyone exploring the island should stay flexible, make spontaneous stops, and embrace new perspectives. My TAMRON 28–75mm F/2.8 G2 proved to be a loyal companion throughout – versatile, lightweight, and reliable, whether I was capturing sweeping landscapes, atmospheric close-ups, or fleeting in-between moments. Thanks to this lens, Madeira will stay with us not only as a place on the map – but as vivid images and a feeling we’ll carry with us.