welcome to madeira islands
Known as a “floating garden”, the “pearl of the Atlantic” or even as the hometown of world-famous football player Cristiano Ronaldo, Madeira Island has been awarded World’s Leading Island Destination by the World Travel Awards since 2019, and it’s the perfect getaway all year round.
Meet the Madeira archipelago
Located in the Atlantic Ocean and discovered in 1418 by the brave Portuguese navigators João Gonçalves Zarco and Tristão Vaz Teixeira, Madeira Island is the best-known tourist destination of the archipelago.
Besides Madeira Island, only Porto Santo is inhabited. There are also 6 more islands, the Desertas and Selvagens, which can only be visited on previously scheduled expeditions.
If you’re coming from Lisbon, the Portuguese capital, you can take one of the daily direct flights that take approximately 1h25 to arrive in Madeira. Nowadays, Madeira also offers direct flights from all over Europe and the USA.
Salute the sun & sea
Can you picture yourself swimming in a clear deep blue sea in January? Yes, it’s real!
With a mild climate all year round, average temperatures vary from 15 °C to 17 °C in the winter and 22 °C to 25 °C in the summer.
If you’re a sea sports enthusiast, stay active! From surfing, sea kayaking, paragliding, sailing and scuba diving to big game fishing, there are many ways to enjoy Madeira by the sea.
Connect to wild nature
Home to the Laurisilva forest, Madeira is widely known for its Levada walks.
Created centuries ago to carry water from the wetter north of the island to the south, today these channels are a great excuse to experience the wild, lush vegetation and admire breathtaking landscapes along the way.
Whether on a private Jeep tour or a guided walk, listen to the sounds of nature, be inspired by your surroundings and enjoy the peace of mind you’ve been dreaming of.
Cherish the local delicacies
Madeira’s cuisine is truly authentic and varied. From different types of bread (like Bolo do Caco) and drinks (Madeira Wine, Poncha or Nikita) to delicious main courses.
If you’re a fish lover, the tuna steak with fried maize and the black scabbard fish fillet with banana or passion fruit sauce are specialities you cannot miss. Also a must is the “Espetada”: beef served on a bay-leaf skewer, seasoned with salt and garlic.
Want to know the local secret spots with the freshest food? Get in touch!
Celebrate life
At Wanderlust Madeira, we invite you to celebrate life and create unforgettable memories while discovering Madeira Island with us.
We’re happy to show you our island as we know it, made of awesome sunrises, stunning views, welcoming locals and charming lodges.
Ready to discover Madeira?
Choose your accommodation and let us help with the rest: experiences, tips and anything you need during your stay.