A sun-kissed island nicknamed the “Hawaii of Europe” has 20C temperatures in February and just £90 flights. And Brits looking for a quiet getaway will be treated to smaller crowds thanks to it currently being the low tourist season.

Madeira, an autonomous region of Portugal, sits in the Atlantic Ocean, around 500 miles away from mainland Portugal. The archipelago has become a hit with tourists, usually between March and April, with travellers from Britain among some of the most frequent visitors to the stunning island.

While the summer months are popular with people looking for a beach getaway, the spring attracts travellers who want to enjoy a less crowded atmosphere while enjoying a host of outdoor activities. 

Madeira is particularly popular with tourists who enjoy a round of golf, the Favellas Santo da Serra Golf Club’s nine-hole course was inaugurated in 1937 leading to a surge in popularity for the sport.

Meanwhile Madeira’s rugged landscape, waterways and rolling forests has meant it has become a hit with people who like activities such as canyoning or trail running. For those wanting a slower pace, the island is also a regular spot for people who simply enjoy a nice rural stroll.

The archipelago is also brimming with art, history and culture. Madeira dates back to 1418 when it was discovered by explorer João Gonçalves Zarco who had drifted days off course when sailing the Atlantic, with Portugal officially colonising the region in 1425.

Since then it has developed its own folklore and traditions, including the Bailinho da Madeira, which combines dance, local voices, and traditional music. Visit Madeira says taking in a show from one of the traditional Bailinho groups in Funchal, the capital, is a “must” for visitors.

YouTuber Top Club named Madeira as one of the top 12 sunny spots to get away from the cold weather. It comes as average temperatures in February can reach daytime highs of up to 20c. 

Top Club said the island is nicknamed the “Hawaii of Europe” and the “Floating Garden of the Atlantic,” adding: “This Portuguese archipelago is a true year-round destination, blessed with a sub-tropical climate that keeps it in a state of eternal spring.

“In winter you can expect incredibly mild temperatures that rarely drop below 14C and often hover around a delightful 20C. It’s the perfect escape for those who crave nature, adventure and warmth.

“Madeira’s appeal in winter lies in its lush landscapes and its incredible opportunities for outdoor activities. This is first and foremost a hiker’s paradise. 

“The island is famous for its Levadas, a remarkable network of irrigation channels that now double as stunning walking trails. Winter hiking in Madeira is spectacular. The rainfall keeps the Laurel Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, exceptionally vibrant, and the waterfalls are at their most powerful.”

The content creator says many visitors to the island like to take a dolphin or whale tour, often with “great success” while the mild temperatures still mean you can take a dip in the sea. He described Funchal, which is home to around 100,000 people, as a “charming and lively base for exploration” thanks to its cable cars, colourful market and vibrant old town.

Airline easyJet offers one-way flights to Madeira in February from just £90 for two people. The flight is estimated to take around four hours.