Madeira: Europe’s Most Beautiful Off-the-Beaten Path Adventure Island
Imagine a land with lush cliffs that drop straight from the sky to the sea, where cascading waterfalls adorn the trails, and where pristine beaches beckon you for a refreshing dip. Picture hiking a craggy mountain for sunrise, overlooking a blanket of clouds, or jumping into a natural pool carved by the coastline. In this land, every twist and bend reveals a new natural wonder and each new vista takes your breath away.
Now, give your imagination a break—and book a flight to Madeira instead.
A Portuguese island set in the glistening Atlantic Ocean approximately 1,000 kilometres off the mainland, Madeira is a gem that won’t stay hidden much longer. While Canadian travellers typically flock to beach destinations like Florida, Mexico, the Caribbean or popular European hotspots like Spain, Portugal, Greece and Italy, Madeira should definitely be on your radar whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, culture, incredible scenery or all of the above.
Here’s why Madeira should be at the top of your island bucket list:
It’s An All-Season Destination
While many beach destinations can experience scorching heat waves, making visiting during the summertime almost unbearable, Madeira boasts pleasant temperatures year-round. With temperatures of around 24 C to 26 C in the summer, visiting during this season won’t have you sweating buckets, and coming in the spring, fall or even winter is a good idea as temperatures only drop to around 16 C in December and hover around 19-22 C during the shoulder seasons. Plus, with so many other outdoor adventures to enjoy here, soaking in the sun on the beach may not make it too high on your to-do list anyway.
There’s Ample Natural Splendour
Madeira’s mountains have to be seen to be believed, and the natural wonders nestled amongst them only add to its allure. The island’s diverse ecosystems reveal new and exciting scenes from the mystical Fanal Forest with its Instagram-famous “Witch Tree” to the 20-million-year-old Laurissilva forest. Madeira’s coastline is equally stunning with dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches like Praia do Seixal and natural pools such as those at Porto Moniz. With miradouros or viewpoints perched on every ridge, Madeira is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers alike.
You’ll Never be Bored with Outdoor Sports and Activities
Outdoor adventure is the name of the game on this island that is home to hundreds of hikes ranging from easy walks to challenging trails. Madeira also provides ample water sport opportunities, from snorkelling in crystal-clear waters to surfing and sailing. For the truly adventurous, there are opportunities for canyoning, paragliding and diving to explore the island’s underwater treasures. Cable cars, such as the Funchal Cable Car and the Achadas da Cruz Cable Car, provide an adrenaline rush, offering breathtaking rides over the island’s rugged landscape.
Consider a Long Stay for a Fuller, Richer Experience
A short visit to Madeira will undoubtedly leave you wanting more. There are plenty of reasons to extend your visit and truly soak in the essence of the island. Seniors can enjoy the tranquil environment and mild climate, while remote workers will find a thriving digital nomad community, providing a perfect base for work and adventure. The island’s safety and welcoming atmosphere make it a great choice for solo female travellers looking for a secure and enriching travel experience. Foreign nationals are enticed to stay in Madeira with Portugal’s Golden Visa program, which offers residency by investment opportunities.
Madeira truly is a destination unlike any you’ve ever experienced before. Pack your bags and get ready to discover the thrills of this enchanting island.
Travel Planning Tips:
Madeira is closer than you think with year-round direct flights on SATA Azores Airlines from Toronto and Montreal via Ponta Delgada and nonstop flights from Toronto in summer. Reaching Madeira is also possible with flights from most European gateway cities. SATA Azores Airlines connects Madeira with cities like Lisbon and Porto.
For more info on SATA Azores Airlines and their flights to Madeira, click here.
For more travel information about Madeira: visitmadeira.com
This article was sponsored by the Madeira Promotion Bureau and SATA Azores Airlines
Explore everything these Atlantic islands have to offer you: breathtaking natural settings, crystal-clear waters, centuries-old traditions, genuine flavours and a great, great desire to welcome you. Come and experience a unique archipelago where the clock does not set the time and the calendar does not dictate the season.
