Madeira

This sub-tropical island, situated in the Atlantic off the west coast of Africa, is just north of the Canaries and temperatures remain between 66 and 82 degrees all year round.

It is not surprising, therefore, that Madeira has long been popular with British holidaymakers because its climate of warm summers and winters is just right. Although the island is only 36 miles long and 14 miles wide, it boasts some of the most breathtaking scenery and an abundance of unusual flowers because of its volcanic soil.

John and Maggie Soper of Alne have spent quite a few of their holidays in Madeira and cannot praise the island enough.

"It is a fascinating place," says Maggie. "A must see is the Moroccan-style market and the botanical gardens in Funchal." With bougainvillea, the bird of paradise flower, a wide variety of orchids and much more, Maggie adds that the sight of all these flowers simply takes your breath away. "You can even buy flowers to take home. They are boxed and sent to your hotel and arrangements are made to have them transported back to the UK."

John enjoys eating out at the marina because of the wide choice of fish available, including tuna and black scabbard fillet. He also enjoys the many walks on the island.

"Very pleasant walks can be taken up through the mountains and woodlands following the old irrigation channels called levadas," he says. "In fact the walks are coded according to your capability, grade 1 being the easiest to grade 4 for the more experienced walker".

The Sopers had so much to say about Madeira there is not enough space in this column to tell you all, but if you would like to visit this island paradise and see for yourself, then you can book with Reader Travel through Atlantic Holidays. With prices starting at £209 per person for seven nights' accommodation you cannot afford to miss this offer. This price is based on two people sharing a twin/double bedded room on a bed and breakfast basis and dates offered start in May and go through to October.

Atlantic Holidays has selected some of the best three, four and five star hotels in Madeira and the price also includes return flights from Leeds Bradford Airport to Funchal with in-flight meals, return transfers from the airport to the hotel and all applicable taxes.

If a holiday in Madeira appeals, why not telephone me on 01904 567124 for an Atlantic Holidays brochure? This comprehensive brochure will tell you everything you need to know including details about climate, wine, shopping, festivals, places to see, walks, eating out and much more. If you would like to book then telephone myself or Vicky on 01904 567123.

Updated: 08:39 Saturday, April 16, 2005