For the intrepid sailors of Portugal’s great voyages of discovery, the island of Madeira was a blessed place, a safe harbor that offered them the first taste of their country as they headed home. These days, mention Madeira and most people will think of the fortified wine that takes its name from the island. Go deeper, however, and you discover a subtropical paradise, an eden of ancient rainforests, verdant gorges and magical waterfalls. Madeira is an island where you can enjoy the sophistication of luxury resort, yet still feel like and explorer.

Explores of architecture will feel at home too – the island’s capital, Funchal, is known as ‘little Lisbon’ and with good reason. The harbor is overlooked by the imposing 16th century Palácio de São Lourenco, while magnificent avenues of 18th century housed dominate the centre of the town. Inland, the famous triangular houses of Santana are gaily painted and unique in the island.

The famous Monte Toboggan run has thrilled visitors for over a hundred years - travelling as speed in a wicker and wooden sled in an experience not to missed - and those who complete the trip certainly earn their glass of Madeira at their journey’s end. Talking of wicker, the island’s willow workers are justifiably famous, and the town of Camacha is home to the finest craftsmen and women.

The little island of Porto Santo lies to the north east of Madeira, and is famous for its magnificent nine-kilometre-long sandy beach. Water sports enthusiasts are in their element here, with scuba diving, windsurfing and sailing all available. Finally, the remote Savage islands lie south west of Madeira, inhabited only by sea lions and sea birds.

Highlights

Located about 620 miles southwest of Lisbon, this archipelago boasts exceptional weather, incredible natural beauty, intricate embroideries and tapestries, and the hearty wine that made Madeira famous. Madeira is the main island, followed by Porto santo, which offers about six miles of sandy white beaches. There are also two groups of uninhabited islands, the Desertas and Selvagens, which instead host bird sanctuaries.