Madeira Continues its Reign: Crowned ‘Europe’s Leading Island Destination’ Again in 2025
23 October, 2025
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Madeira Continues its Reign: Crowned ‘Europe’s Leading Island Destination’ Again in 2025
The Madeira archipelago has once again proven its standing as a world-class travel destination, securing the prestigious title of ‘Europe’s Leading Island Destination’ at the 2025 World Travel Awards (WTA).
At the gala ceremony held in Sardinia, Italy, Madeira reaffirmed its dominance in this highly competitive category. This repeated recognition at what is considered the “Oscars” of the tourism industry highlights the island’s unique blend of stunning natural beauty, exceptional hospitality, and high-quality visitor experiences.
This consistent success is a testament to the dedicated efforts of the island’s entire tourism sector, which continues to innovate and delight travelers from around the globe.
The award also came as part of a larger celebration for Portugal, which was named ‘Europe’s Leading Destination’ overall, further cementing the region’s reputation for excellence on the world stage. For visitors, this award solidifies what many already know: Madeira remains the undisputed best island destination in all of Europe.
By now, most travelers know that Madeira has introduced entrance fees for its most popular hiking trails (Levadas). However, while booking your ticket online, there is a crucial detail that many might miss—but strictly must accept. As you can see in the screenshot below from the official booking portal, it is impossible to purchase a ticket without checking a specific box regarding liability. The checkbox reads: “Users of pedestrian routes...
The Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (IFCN) has officially ordered the closure of all classified hiking routes across Madeira Island due to dangerous weather conditions. Following severe weather alerts issued by the IPMA, authorities have deemed the mountains unsafe for hikers. In addition to the footpaths, the forest road connecting Eira do Serrado to Pico do Areeiro is also closed to traffic until further notice. Do not ignore these...
Embark on an adventure and discover the breathtaking beauty of Madeira with the Nature Festival, starting tomorrow, October 7th, and running until October 12th, 2025! This festival is a fantastic opportunity for all ages to connect with nature and experience the stunning landscapes of the archipelago. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or looking for a relaxing wellness experience, there’s something for everyone. Get ready to explore the famous levadas, rappel...
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