As the UK braces for freezing temperatures, a stunning European island offers a tantalising and affordable escape to winter sunshine. Known as the 'Hawaii of Europe', Madeira boasts average January highs of 20C, with the warmest days reaching a balmy 23C.
A Tropical Paradise on Europe's Doorstep
Located just a four-hour flight from London, the Portuguese archipelago of Madeira is a world away from the British chill. It comprises four main territories: Madeira, Porto Santo, the Desertas, and the Selvagens. The islands enjoy an impressive six hours of daily sunshine throughout the winter months, according to the Met Office.
Madeira operates on the UK timezone, meaning travellers can maximise their holiday time without battling jet lag. While the south coast basks in warmth, the mountainous interior can present a dramatic contrast, with snow-capped peaks visible from the capital, Funchal.
More Than Just a Beach Holiday
For those seeking activity alongside relaxation, Madeira's compact size is packed with adventure. Key experiences include hiking up Pico Ruivo, exploring the exotic Monte Palace Tropical Garden, and visiting local wineries to sample the famous fortified Madeira wine.
This wine has a curious link to Britain; it arrived in England during the 1800s and was traditionally served with a lemon and almond cake, which subsequently took on the name 'madeira cake'. For the best sunshine, head to Ponta do Sol, which boasts the island's highest annual sunshine hours.
Planning Your Winter Escape
Travel experts suggest a minimum stay of four days to properly explore Madeira's diverse highlights. Lonely Planet's Austin Bush recommends basing yourself in Funchal before venturing to other parts of the island, balancing active days with beach recovery time.
Direct flights to Madeira operate from multiple UK airports, including Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, Bristol, and Gatwick. Incredibly, budget-friendly options are available this January, with fares spotted from £17 from Bristol, £24 from Manchester, and £32 from Birmingham. This compares starkly to the 19-hour journey required to reach Hawaii, which has no direct UK flights.
With its subtropical climate, dramatic landscapes, and newfound social media fame as an oceanic sanctuary, Madeira presents a compelling and accessible winter sun destination for British travellers seeking warmth without the long-haul flight.
