Luxury holidays in Madeira

Laced with lush vegetation and set over 6,000 feet above sea level, the autonomous Portuguese island of Madeira impresses with its rolling landscapes, terracotta-tiled towns and breathtaking black-sand beaches. Don the hiking boots and admire gaze-worthy views atop Cabo Girão; or swap your Salomons for sandals and jaunt down to Livramento, where Carreiros will do the work for you, pushing you about in a wicker toboggan, the island’s delightfully quirky enduring tradition. End sun-filled days on one of many beaches, some dark in hue, with a brandy-slugged poncha cocktail – or indeed, a tot of Madeira’s eponymous fortified wine – and meaty espetadas fresh off the grill.

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Areas in Madeira

When to go

Madeira’s ‘land of eternal spring’ moniker is rightly earned, you’ll be blessed with balmy weather throughout the year with average temperatures sitting comfortably at 20°C. During the summer months, days reach highs of 28°C.

Getting there

  • Planes

    Most international hubs (including London, Paris and New York) have direct flights to Madeira’s Funchal Airport, those further afield may require a connection in Lisbon.

  • Automobiles

    Madeira is doable without a car, especially if you struggle with steep-hill driving. If you’ve got a stronger stomach, a set of wheels is a great way to reach more remote regions of this volcanic island, and the airport has a number of rental places.