Why you should sell Madeira to all your clients (not just the retired ones)
The Portuguese archipelago is the ideal year-round escape and can capture the imagination of all ages with its adventures in nature, says Dr Eduardo Jesus, Madeira’s Regional Secretary of Tourism and Culture
What is Madeira’s appeal as a winter sun holiday?
What sets our destination apart for winter sun is the combination of mountains and sea, its authenticity and a unique and distinctive culture. Madeira is just a short distance from mainland Europe, with a unique subtropical climate that offers ideal conditions when the weather is more adverse elsewhere in winter.
Levada walks are a main attraction – these are trails for discovering breathtaking landscapes. We also have natural reserves and protected areas, which represent two-thirds of the territory on land, while 89% of the sea under management of the archipelago, up to 12 miles, is protected, including the Desertas and Selvagens islands. A typical day can be spent doing activities in the mountains, such as hiking through the Unesco World Heritage-listed Laurisilva Forest, diving in the sea (our water temperatures are very pleasant), tasting traditional Madeiran cuisine and wine, and visiting one of several museums or gardens on the island.
What sort of temperatures are to be expected in winter?
Madeira certainly has one of the most pleasant climates in Europe. In Funchal, the archipelago’s capital, the temperature rarely drops below 17 C in winter and seldom exceeds 25 C in summer. However, we find microclimates all over the island. The large mountains and air currents that blow from different directions make the climate variable in each area, with the south being the warmest. As we head north, the temperature drops a bit. Inland, in higher altitude areas, they gradually decrease, and light precipitation is more frequent. Madeirans have a saying that you can experience the four seasons in one day, depending where on the island you are. When packing for Madeira, people should bring light clothes, a raincoat, walking shoes and a bathing suit.
Which festivals help visitors immerse themselves in island life?
Madeira has a rich calendar of events, and there is always something happening. We start the year with fireworks in Funchal; followed by Carnival; the Flower Festival, including the Madeira Flower Classic Auto Parade; the Madeira Classic Car Revival; the Atlantic Festival; Classics in Magnolia; the Nature Festival, the Columbus Festival on Porto Santo island; the Wine Festival; and of course, Christmas. More information can be found at eventsmadeira.com.
What does the island offer for younger tourists?
We are an eclectic destination with a diverse offering that draws in travellers of all ages. However, Madeira is particularly well known for its nature, where you can practise numerous adventure sports, which attract younger generations of tourists. We have the perfect conditions for canyoning, surfing, sport fishing, diving, kayaking, paragliding, mountain biking and trail running, among others. There are also less strenuous activities to try, such as whale and dolphin watching, wine tours, bird watching and wildlife tours.
Tell us, what does Madeira’s EarthCheck certification mean for the destination?
Initiated at the end of July 2021, the certification was a fundamental step in recognition of Madeira as a destination that promotes sustainable development, the sociocultural authenticity of communities, the preservation of biodiversity, social wellbeing and economic security, with the conscious use of environmental resources. It should be noted that it was the culmination of a process that began a long time ago. Sustainability culture is deep-rooted in Madeira – for example, 60 tourist accommodation and catering services have been given the international Green Key award so far this year.
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