Set off the southwest coast of Portugal, the island of Madeira is known for its balmy, eternal spring climate. The island is rated as one of the safest and most beautiful holiday destinations in the world, and features pebble beaches, dramatic cliffs, and spectacular mountain scenery. Known as the ‘Garden of the Atlantic’, it plays host to an excellent annual Flower Festival, which showcases the island's diverse exotic blooms. In addition to soaking up Madeira’s breathtaking landscape, tree-lined promenades, and renowned cuisine, visitors can also take advantage of the multitude of opportunities for hiking, fishing, surfing, canyoning, sailing, paragliding, and dolphin and whale watching.