Madeira is an island lying off the coast of Portugal and is the biggest in an archipelago of four islands, the others being Porto Santo and the uninhabited Selvagens and Desertas. Madeira Island is 35 miles long, 13 miles wide and covers an area of 459 sq miles, with a population of approximately 260,000 Portuguese speaking people occupying both the main island and Porto Santo. Funchal, the capital, accounts for around 50% of the country's total population and is a bustling city built in an enormous natural amphitheatre extending from green mountains to the harbour. Holiday accommodation including bed and breakfasts are highly sought after throughout the country by the many visitors who flock to the island in summer, with holiday apartments in Madeira making a popular choice from which to plan a thorough investigation of this beautiful destination.

The climate of Madeira is sub-tropical, with hot summers, mild winters and pleasant sea water temperatures all year round aided by the influence of the Gulf stream. Madeira's central mass is volcanic in origin and the diversity of the landscape and altitude levels has given rise to a variety of natural habitats, and perfectly complement this country's rich cultural and architectural heritage. The island's geographical splendour is rarely matched and the many 'levadas', or irrigation channels, that pass dramatically over cliff edges from their source high up in the mountains, are a sight to behold.

Porto Santo is another inhabited island in the archipelago, lying 23 miles to the north-east of Madeira. It is altogether flatter and an idyllic location for sun and sea worshippers with a 6 mile stretch of white sand beach. The sand is renowned for its therapeutic properties, and along with the clear, blue waters, this island makes a haven of peace and tranquillity. Fishing, swimming and water sports feature uppermost on an impressive list of activities throughout the country and the self catering holiday villas in Madeira would make the ideal base from which to explore every possibility. If you're seeking an action-packed vacation of island hopping, water-skiing and sailing, or just a lazy time spent on the beach or taking in the natural beauty, then Madeira has everything you need.

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