MAGICAL MADEIRA

This North Atlantic island is the ultimate yearround destination for sunshine and flowers

- NORI JEMiL

WHY GO?

Encircled by dramatic coastal cliffs and coddled by blue waters off the Moroccan coast, Madeira is as breathtaking as it is appealing. The largest island of a small Portuguese archipelago, it has a colourful historic capital, Funchal, and a wild centre forested with laurel. Walking trails, whale watching and spa hotels make it an ideal spot for a relaxing spring break.

COASTAL BEAUTY

It’s impossible not to be wowed by the scenery, where jutting volcanic cliffs meet crashing surf. There are calm swimming beaches at Calheta to the west – as well as on the neighbouring Porto Santo island – but with many hotels offering outdoor infinity pools, you never need to go far for a dip after a day’s exploring.

Head out to a high-vantage island viewpoint and you’ll likely be peering out to the water through sculptural native plants, such as the purple-flowering Pride of Madeira. A stay at Yeotown (yeotown. com), a retreat specialising in nourishing food, yoga and massage, offers superb views and all the health benefits of the ocean air. It’s right by the UNESCO-listed Laurisilva forest where walking trails follow water channels that crisscross the landscape.