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Madeira has been named Europe's best island destination at the prestigious World Travel Awards.
The Portuguese archipelago, made up of the islands of Madeira, Porto Santo and the Desertas, is known for its wild beauty and subtropical climate, making it the perfect year-round escape.
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Beating off competition from the likes of Crete, the Balearics, Cyprus, Sardinia and Malta, which were nominated for Europe's Leading Island Destination 2019, Madeira surprises and delights visitors with its natural beauty.
The Atlantic island is a haven for walkers thanks to its scenic trails that rival those of Hawaii, such as Vereda da Ilha and Vereda do Pico Ruivo.
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Madeira is a great place to relax too – the Botanical Garden is a must-see and a hop over to Porto Santo will take you to some of the most beautiful beaches around.
Forget what you've heard about volcanic Madeira being a place 'just for old people' too - the nightlife in Madeira's capital Funchal and the island's beautiful natural pools of Porto Moniz attract people of all ages.
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When it comes to the hotels, the five-star Belmond Reid's Palace is an icon and one of the most glamorous hotels on the island. For incredible views over Funchal Bay, look no further than Quinta da Bela Vista, which was also named Europe's Leading Boutique Hotel at this year's World Travel Awards.
And if you're after something stylish, The Vine is a design hotel with a cool rooftop pool.
This article originally appeared on Harper's BAZAAR UK.
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