Madeira was ranked for the tenth time as the best island in Europe at the annual European Gala of the World Travel Awards, in addition to the Madeira Promotion Association as the best Tourism entity in Europe. This popular island group is also considered one of the safest holiday destinations in the world!
The island is located in the Atlantic Ocean, about 350 miles (560km) off the coast of Morocco. It is the largest inhabited island in the archipelago with about 309 square miles (801 km). Its neighbor, Porto Santo, is also inhabited, and distinguished as having the best beaches.
Funchal is the capital of the island chain that is an autonomous region of Portugal.
Madeira is an island of eternal spring with temperatures around 70 degrees Fahrenheit from December to April and in the mid 80 degree F range the rest of the year. The area around Funchal is more arid, with the northern part of the island receiving more rain from October to April. Europeans make frequent journeys to Madeira during the cold winters on the continent.
This scenic, year-round resort, is best known for its Madeira wine. The island also produces bananas and other tropical fruits, along with sugarcane. Madeira derives most of its economic growth from tourism, with many popular hotels and condominiums available to visitors year-round. While the northern part of the island is still rural, the southern area around Funchal offers outstanding accommodations, restaurants, and entertainment.
Activities for Everyone
Madeira Islands is a perfect vacation destination as it has something for everyone.
Charter catamarans take visitors on tours to see migrating whales and dolphins. Hikers can take tours into the mountains to visit waterfalls and peaks that offer spectacular views of the islands. A shuttle service is offered to hikers who want to watch the sunrise at Pico do Arieiro. Hikers can visit Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
There are walking tours of Old Town and a special Skywalk and Wine Tasting Jeep tour. Madeira also has a Carnival celebration along with an annual flower show and wine festival.
Direct Flights from the U.S. and Europe
Direct flights are available to Madeira from most major European cities. In addition, British Air and other airlines offer service from Washington, D.C., and New York to Funchal.