Brits hankering after a break from the cold weather this winter should head to Madeira this year, an award-winning travel expert has said. The Portuguese island in the North Atlantic, dubbed Europe’s Hawaii, is a tourist favourite in spring when the mercury starts rising.
But according to Gilly Bachelor Brits can still enjoy temperatures of 18-20C on the island in winter and seas warm enough for a dip. She told the Daily Express: “Winter is a great time to go because a lot of people go in spring, there are short flights and no time difference. For those who don’t want to go to the Canary Islands, look at Madeira.”
Gilly added that along with Malta, Madeira is an ideal option for travellers who are looking for a more active holiday rather than lying on a beach to bake in the sun.
She said: “Don’t prioritise sun-bathing. Madeira’s trails are good for hiking, there’s the cable car in Funchal and gardens to visit so if the weather’s not great you’ve still got things to see and do if you don’t want to stay in your hotel.”
The travel expert said while Madeira offers winter warmth the heat isn’t oppressive, making it a haven for people who love exploring.
She recommended hiking Madeira’s famous levada trails for the panoramic views and the colourful markets in Funchal.
Gilly suggested that for accommodation, you might consider the luxurious five star Royal Savoy or Savoy Palace, or opt for the “highly-rated” four star Residence Porto Mare.
Prices start from £900 per person for a seven night bed-and-breakfast stay, including flights, luggage, and transfers, according to the expert.
She added: “With short flights from the UK, Madeira is an easy and affordable escape.”
The average flight time to Madeira is just under four hours. EasyJet, Jet2, Qatar Airways, BA Euroflyer, British Airways, Ryanair and TUI all fly direct to the island.
According to Skyscanner, the cheapest month to fly to Madeira is usually November. At the time of writing, flights depart from a number of UK airports, including Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh and London Stansted.
For more travel advice visit Gilly Bachelor Travel Expert.