One stunning European island, that’s just a four-hour flight from the UK, has been labelled the ‘Hawaii of Europe’. Located off the Northwest coast of Africa is Madeira, an autonomous archipelago that forms part of Portugal. Its dramatic coastlines, stunning landscapes, and volcanic nature have seen these islands compared to Hawaii, but for a fraction of the price.
Highlighted as a potential Hawaii, a week-long stay in this paradise will set you back around £244 per person. This deal has been shared by budget holiday finders Holiday Pirates and can be booked for this coming November, when the temperature will still reach highs of 15C.
Some of Madeira’s stunning sights were shared in an Instagram video by Trending Travel, who wrote: “You’re going to want to save this one for your bucket list.
“Madeira has earned the nickname Hawaii of Europe — think dramatic coastlines, lush landscapes, and volcanic vibes. But the best bit? It’s a fraction of the flight time and the price.”
Commenting, one fellow Instagram user wrote: “Wow, looks stunning! Never been to Madeira so one to add the the bucket list I think!”
And a second added: “Wow! I’ve never even considered Madeira! It’s going on the list…thanks!”
This beautiful archipelago consists of two inhabited islands, Madeira and Porto Santo, and two uninhabited groups, the Desertas and the Selvagens. Both of the inhabited islands are great for holidays, and you can take a ferry or a 25-minute flight between them.
Madeira Island is home to the region’s capital, Funchal, which VisitMadeira describes as: “A European city located in a bay bathed by the Atlantic, which combines a cosmopolitan atmosphere with a close relationship with Nature.”
Visitors to Funchal can visit the stunning Monte Palace Madeira, a tropical garden that is one of the island’s most popular tourist destinations. Home to plenty of rare plant species, from African cycads and North American sequoias to camellias and ancient olive trees, this garden is unmissable.
It’s also home to Oriental Gardens and Laurissilva, a recreation of Madeira’s UNESCO-listed native forest. And you can fo course, follow this with a visit to the forest itself.
Both Madeira and Porto Santo have numerous stunning beaches. While many of Madeira’s beaches are pebbly, those looking for sandy options can head to the black sands at Seixal Beach or Prainha Beach, which as coppery volcanic sand.
Anyone looking for golden sands and crystal-clear water should head to Porto Santo beach, which in 2022 was voted the best beach in Europe by the European Best Destinations.