The archipelago of Madeira is situated off the coast of Portugal and offers travellers the best of all worlds.
Its reliable climate, derived from the fact it sits further south than northern Morocco, makes it a safe bet for a sunny winter getaway.
For those looking for a unique treat, the volcanic makeup of the islands means that there are several natural pools, formed over millennia by cooling lava and considered to be of extremely good quality water thanks to the steady inflow of seawater.
Its luscious beaches and crisp blue sea allow visitors to forget the rain back home and relax under the sun’s rays.
But this archipelago is about more than lazing on the beach. Its volcanic, rugged landscape begs to be explored with stunning hiking trails dotting each of the four islands.
Laurissilva Forest is more than 20 million years old and boasts a wealth of fossils and wildlife across its 15,000 hectares.
As is almost customary with southern Europe, the food is sublime, with dishes such as Espetada Madeirense, a beef skewer grilled on wood or Filete de Espada, a typical Madeiran seafood dish making any trip to Madeira worth it on its own.
Flights to the archipelago are direct, with most large operators covering the route. In November, prices start from around £55 making the destination almost irresistible to those seeking an autumn break.
