Featuring its jet-black sand shores and towering volcanic escarpments, Madeira is frequently referred to as the ' Hawaii of Europe '—and the heavenly island is soon going to become much easier to reach.'
Several UK airlines are expanding their services to the Portuguese archipelago, with new routes and additional flights launching just in time for the summer season.
Jet2 is launching a new weekly service from Bournemouth to Funchal beginning in May, with departures occurring each Thursday.
Ryanair will also transport passengers to the island. The budget airline plans to introduce biweekly flights starting in May, operating on Wednesdays and Sundays. Edinburgh to Funchal.
Both EasyJet while Jet2 is boosting the number of flights from London Luton This month, Jet2 introduced a weekly flight to Funchal from Luton operating every Monday. Starting in June, EasyJet will introduce two additional routes, also departing on Mondays and Fridays.
Based on Madeira’s 2025 flight plan, the anticipated increase in UK flights to the island for the summertime is set to jump by 12%, going up from 349 in 2024 to an estimated 390 in 2025.
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Travelling from the UK to Funchal, which serves as both the capital and biggest city in Madeira, takes approximately four hours, with one-way ticket prices starting at about £70.
Situated off the western coastline of Africa, Madeira has often been likened to popular dream travel locations like Hawaii, Peru, and Croatia.
One TikToker @thechaosdiaries he mentioned: 'This beautiful Portuguese island offers it all: stunning beaches, incredible hiking trails, charming villages, and exquisite cuisine.' Moreover, its dramatic cliffs and volcanic landscapes contribute significantly to its appeal. @destinationinspiration christened it the 'Hawaii of Europe'.
Things to explore and activities in Madeira
Even though it is fairly tiny, Madeira possesses lots of activities to enjoy The seaside city of Funchal sits cozily amidst the ocean and steep hillside areas.
Guests have the opportunity to enjoy a trip via the Cable Car, journeying from the historic district up to the Monte neighborhood, providing panoramic vistas throughout the ascent.
Visitors on the ground can marvel at its historical buildings such as the Funchal Cathedral, a Gothic-style church dating back to the 16th century, along with the São Tiago Fortress, which is an old 17th-century defensive structure erected to shield the town from pirate invasions.
The island also boasts a reputation for its wines. Guided tours frequently originate in the main city, leading tourists through nearby vineyards and ancient wine cellars.
In another location, the village of Santana, situated on the northern coastline of the island, is portrayed as akin to entering a time capsule because of its traditional dwellings with triangular thatched roofs.
Swimming at the island differs somewhat from what you might expect during an ordinary beach vacation. This place doesn't boast long sandy shores because of its rough and volcanic shoreline.
For those seeking relaxation, Madeira offers various artificial and natural swimming areas. Among these, one of the best-known spots is the Porto Moniz natural swimming pool, intricately shaped from the island’s volcanic rock.
The island is referred to as a haven for trekkers and houses numerous attractions. almost 1,800 kilometers of walking paths , with numerous spots to lose oneself, ranging from the extensive trail systems along both the eastern and western coasts to the central mountain range.
On the north coast, you’ll find some of the Madiera’s most beautiful levadas – a system of man-made irrigation channels or aqueducts that crisscross the island, visitmadeira.com says.
When exploring the south coast, hikers can revel in 'spectacular vistas' of Funchal.
Those who wish to venture into the trails will requires payment of a fee However, as of January this year, visitors hiking its most frequented trails must pay a €3 (£2.50) charge to the Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (ICNF).
The top five exceptional hiking routes in Madeira
The top five hiking routes in Madeira as rated by TripAdvisor.
- Levada do Risco
- Levada Do Caldeirao Verde
- Levada das 25 Fontes
- Madeira Explorers
- Miradouro da Ponta do Rosto
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