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Authentic Madeira: Festivals, Events and Traditions
Looking to experience the Atlantic archipelago in a genuinely authentic and traditional way? Madeira boasts a packed calendar of events that welcome locals and visitors alike: from Carnival in February and the grand Flower Festival running from April to May, to the Madeira Street Art Festival in Funchal and Calheta in late summer. We’ve compiled…
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Madeira Rediscovered: Off the Beaten Track
The volcanic island of Madeira impresses with its striking contrasts – from deep black sand beaches to towering mountain ranges. With its combination of wild coastlines, dense forests, and spectacular vistas, the island provides the ideal backdrop for adventurers, culture enthusiasts, and those seeking relaxation alike. We’ve put together a selection of highlights to lead…
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Madeira Food Guide: Discovering the Island’s Culinary Scene
Unlike Lisbon or Porto, the volcanic island of Madeira hasn’t traditionally been known for its food scene, until now. Madeira has since become one of Portugal’s top destinations for modern and fine dining, a fact recently highlighted by the archipelago hosting the 2026 Michelin Guide Portugal ceremony. The cuisine is tradition-conscious yet multifaceted, relying heavily…
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Secret Guide to Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Tourism in Madeira
Madeira is a unique volcanic island featuring centuries-old levadas, imposing peaks, ancient forests, and impressive lava beaches. The locals love their island – and are delighted by tourists who feel the same way. With the goal of promoting respect for the island’s nature and traditions, Visit Madeira has committed itself to a sustainable and climate-friendly…
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10 Most Inclusive European Destinations for LGBTQ+ Travellers
For queer travellers, finding a destination that offers not only beauty and adventure but also safety and a genuinely welcoming atmosphere is paramount. Whether you’re planning a romantic LGBTQ+-friendly honeymoon, a vibrant city break, or a relaxing beach holiday with your partner, our guide highlights the top 10 most inclusive European destinations where you can…
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Love Is in the Air: 10 Most Romantic City Breaks in Europe for Couples
Whether you’re looking for anniversary trip ideas or value-for-money honeymoon destinations, finding the ideal blend of culture, relaxation, and adventure can be challenging. Secret Escapes has scoured the European continent to bring you the best destinations for two, showing you where is best for city breaks that promise romance, from hidden gems to classic icons,…
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The best winter sun destinations for your next getaway
Our experts have picked their best winter holidays for sun and balmy average temperatures in Europe and beyond. Take a look at our curated list of close-to-home city breaks and far-flung package luxury holidays to inspire your next getaway.
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Regal escapes: 8 stunning breaks inspired by Empress Sisi of Austria
The cult of Empress Elisabeth of Austria – better known as Sisi – has been going strong for almost 200 years, ranging from a dedicated museum at the Hofburg Palace to numerous screen adaptations and the wonderful marzipan chocolates shared with her compatriot Mozart. A stay in the Austrian capital will have you spotting her…
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The definitive travel guide to Portugal
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An Island Guide to Madeira
Madeira is an enchanting archipelago, a cluster of islands just off the northwest coast of Africa where a mild, year-round Mediterranean climate offers the perfect sunny escape. Between Madeira, Porto Santo, Ilhas Desertas and Ilhas Selvagens, discover remarkable outdoor scenes, from beautiful coastlines to wild nature, and sink into the unique lifestyle of this charming…
