With the days shorter and the weather colder, it’s no surprise that many of us are dreaming of a sun-soaked getaway to kick-start the new year. There are hundreds of sunny hotspots just a short flight away for a luxurious winter break, but there’s one that has long been dubbed as “Europe’s answer to Hawaii” and direct flights start from just £40 return.

Found off the northwest coast of Africa and famed for its subtropical climate, is the region of Madeira in Portugal. The volcanic archipelago, comprising four islands with Madeira as the main one, offers dramatic landscapes boasting rugged mountains, natural lava pools, unique sand beaches and crystal-clear blue waters.

January is an ideal time to visit the Portuguese island, with temperatures reaching a warm 19C during the day. Yet, in January 2025, historic data showed that Madeira reached up to 23C, while the summer months can welcome 28C weather.

Thanks to its stunning volcanic backdrop, balmy temperatures and lush greenery, it’s earned the unofficial title of ‘Europe’s answer to Hawaii’, making it the perfect winter destination. What’s more, you can scoop up direct return flights from London Stansted to Madeira from just £40 with Ryanair in January, as shown on Skyscanner. 

Madeira boasts breathtaking beaches, many of which are composed of striking pebbles or volcanic black sand, making them well worth a visit. One of which is Praia Formosa, the largest found in its capital, Funchal, along with Seixal Beach, which is famed for its soft, volcanic sand and spectacular backdrop of green cliffs.

Elsewhere, there’s Porto Moniz, which boasts phenomenal natural lava rock pools, and the perfect spot for a dip, or Machico Beach, with its golden sand and calm, turquoise waters. Another popular spot is the stunning Complexo Balnear do Lido in Funchal, where you can swim in two seawater pools that overlook the majestic ocean.

Elsewhere in Madeira, you can explore the capital of Funchal, with its historic charm, tranquil botanical gardens, and lively markets, or the area of Zona Velha, featuring narrow cobbled streets and charming independent shops. By night, it becomes a vibrant hub with bars and restaurants, offering outdoor terraces to catch the sunset over the North Atlantic Ocean.

Around the island, you can also explore waterfalls, sample their world-class wine or take a boat tour to marvel at whales and dolphins in the wild. While the summer months are often the best time to spot these incredible creatures, visitors have caught a glimpse earlier in the year.

The island is also a hot spot for hiking, with one of its most popular trails along the cliffs of Ponta de São Lourenço on the easternmost edge. The hike is just under four miles and takes around 2.5 hours to complete along some uneven paths, but you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views across Madeira.

Another trail at Pico do Arieiro leads you to one of the highest points of the island, with an altitude of 1,818 metres. While it’s a more challenging hike, it’s an ample opportunity to appreciate the incredible green mountain scenes, and there’s a shuttle bus you can grab on the way back down.

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