Whether you’re after a week of hiking above the clouds, or a chilled getaway lying on the beach – there’s an island not so far from the UK that is regularly touted as the ‘Hawaii of Europe’
You don’t need to travel far for that chilled-out, tropical island feel.
While Hawaii has long been the ultimate bucket-list destination, the post-pandemic boom left the island in turmoil. In fact, residents started begging tourists *not* to visit the postcard-picture destination in 2022 following unprecedented tourism demands that left popular beaches and rammed restaurants too busy to enjoy.
Getting to the US state is also extremely pricey for Brits, with indirect return flights exceeding £1,000 in July. Accommodation isn’t exactly cheap either, with chain hotels charging a staggering £423 per night. However, just a few hours from the UK lays an island often touted as the ‘Hawaii of Europe’. With dramatic volcanic landscapes, lush mountains, and turquoise water – it’s easy to see why.
Travel enthusiast Sophie, known as Small Gal Big World online, recently went on a trip to Madeira and compared its laid-back vibe to the Aloha State. “Dreaming of an island getaway,” she captioned the post on TikTok.
Comprising of four islands off the northwest coast of Africa, Madeira is an autonomous region of Portugal which attracts more than 1.5million tourists each year. The hotspot is home to one of the most impressive hikes in the world – Pico Ruivo do Paul da Serra, which takes walkers above the clouds on Madeira’s highest point.
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Sophie recommended visiting the capital Funchal, which is renowned for its botanical gardens, centuries-old cathedral and plethora of wine cellars. She also praised the coastal area of Canico de Baxio, which is the perfect spot for swimming, cliff jumping, sunbathing on the beach, and kicking back with a good book.
Hundreds of impressed viewers flocked to the comments section to praise the destination – with one person branding the island “stunning”. “So beautiful,” raved one user. Another agreed, commenting: “My parents have a house on Madeira and I always see dolphins outside my window.” A third added: “Portugal is awesome,” while a fourth simply wrote: “Magical place.”
What destination are planning on visiting next? Let us know in the comments section below