A glass of MADEIRA

Basking in year-round sunshine, this North Atlantic island is the ultimate feel-good break

- NORI JEMIL

Encircled by dramatic coastal cliffs and coddled by blue waters off the Moroccan coast, Madeira is as breathtaking as it is appealing. The largest island of a small Portuguese archipelago - and less than a four-hour flight from the UK - it has a colourful historic capital, Funchal, and a wild centre forested with laurel. Walking trails, whale watching and spa hotels make it an ideal spot for an early spring break filled with relaxation and rejuvenation.

Coastal wonder

It's impossible not to be wowed by the superlative scenery, where jutting, volcanic cliffs meet crashing surf. There are calm swimming beaches at Calheta to the west - as well as on the neighbouring Porto Santo island - but with many hotels offering outdoor infinity pools, you never need to go far for a dip after a day's exploring. Head out to any number of the high-vantage island viewpoints and you'll likely be peering out to the water through sculptural native plants, such as the purple-flowering Pride of Madeira. A stay at Yeotown (yeotown.com), a retreat specialising in nourishing food, yoga and massage, offers superb views from its elevated position and all the health benefits of breathing in ocean air. Plus, it's close to the UNESCO-listed Laurisilva forest where walking trails follow water channels that criss-cross the landscape.

Marine life