wrenwood

I have read several places that it may be warm in Funchal and along the coast, but at the higher elevations it can be much colder.

Can anyone give me any idea how much colder, on average?

If Funchal and the coastal towns are around 60, will the mountains be 45-50, or maybe even colder?

Gordon_R

I don't think in Fahrenheit, so I had to do some conversions. Mid March daytime temperatures in Funchal and along the south coast will typically be more like 19 deg C (66 deg F), though in the direct sunshine it can feel warmer. Obviously as you go higher up into the mountains the air temperature will drop by around 3.5F/1,000 ft. The highest peak you can easily get to is Pico do Arieiro at 5965 feet high, which would imply temperatures of 45 deg F. The mountains can feel much cooler if there is high wind or cloud cover (in which case there's little point going to the trouble of getting up there), but when the sun's shining I can't say I've ever felt cold - snow and ice are almost unheard of.

Unless you are very unlucky and there is a big Atlantic storm (like the deadly one of 2010), March is a nice time to visit Madeira.

Cali

My sister has a home in Funchal and loves to be there in Feb. and March because she says the weather is always perfect for their stay. They are leaving next week and taking American Friends over with them and she feels they will have wonderful weather and a great time based on their other trips at this time. She says she never feels cold during the day and has a sweater ready for evening. Hope you have a great trip. They love it there.