I'm wondering the same thing about Madeira vs. Spain's various islands.
Geriatric would be a plus for me and my wife if by that it means lack of reputation as a "party" center. Not teetotalers or geriatrics ourselves; but rather prefer peace, quiet, and hiking / adventure over night clubs, see-and-be-seen beaches, etc. The Levada walks on Madeira look incredible.
A lot of Spain's islands seem to have a reputation for partying and package tourism. Good for those who enjoy it.
For example, when I researched a trip to Bali many moons ago, I learned that Kuta Beach was a party center--nights clubs, surf, annoyances, noise, drunkards. And so chose to hang out in the outskirts of Ubud--Ubud at least then having a rep for being more geriatric type place where you'd go for the food, culture, art, nature, and relaxation. No beaches being inland. No night clubs I knew of back then. So not much to detain anyone looking for a rowdyish beach / booze holiday.
Not suggesting you're looking for the latter--or passing any judgment. I was just delighted to have done the homework and completely avoided Kuta Beach--spend two lovely, chill weeks on the outskirts of Ubud and it's exactly what I wanted.
Originally Posted by
mattkorey
We are considering these two places as part of a Europe trip in late May/early June.
I've heard good and bad things about both.
Specifically that Madeira (Funchal) is quite lovely but a bit sleepy and geriatric.
Nothing against the sleepy or the geriatric, but as we aren't too much of either that might not exactly be a selling point for us.
As to the Canary Islands, I've heard that they (Gran Canaria) are lovely, but a bit tacky and downtrodden.
Nother against the tacky and downtrodden amongst us.
Has anyone been to either and/or both and what do you think, generally speaking.