Discover the Enchanting Island of Madeira

Portugal’s enchanting island of Madeira has been crowned Europe’s Leading Island Destination 2020 at the World Travel Awards, a recognition it has earned for seven out of the past eight years. This exceptional island stands out among other stunning locations, drawing visitors from around the globe.

Why Choose Madeira?

Madeira has triumphed over other nominees like The Azores, Balearic Islands, Canary Islands, and many more. Additionally, it has claimed the title of the world’s leading island destination for five consecutive years, making it a top choice for travelers. However, the anticipation builds as we await the Grand Final on November 27 to see if it will maintain its status as the overall winner this year.

The tiny volcanic island of Madeira is situated 1076 km southwest of Portugal. It boasts a geologically dramatic landscape, vibrant colors, and warm temperatures all year round, making it an ideal destination for those seeking unique experiences. Known as the Pearl of the Atlantic, it offers a diverse range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, including hiking along the historic levadas—narrow irrigation channels established in the 15th century that have been used over the centuries to distribute water. Moreover, the island’s unique black sand beaches, towering rock walls, and rushing streams are major attractions for visitors.

Outdoor Adventures Await

Key highlights of outdoor activities include:

• The breathtaking glass-bottom lookout at Cabo Girão, one of the highest sea cliffs globally.
• The majestic mountain landscape at Pico do Arieiro (1818m).

In addition to outdoor adventures, Madeira also offers gentler pursuits such as wine-tasting, visits to lush botanical gardens, and observing traditional crafts like embroidery and wicker weaving. Furthermore, a unique experience awaits those who venture down the steep streets of Funchal from Monte village in special wicker sledges on wooden rails, reaching speeds of up to 38 km/h. This tradition has been cherished for over a century, with skilled carreiros (drivers) expertly transporting passengers on the thrilling 2 km ride.

For more information on the World Travel Awards, including their notable winners, visit their official website here.