With advances in technology, more people can work remotely than ever before. Whether you run your own online business or have persuaded your boss that the dreary office cramps your creativity and you’d do much better work if you were free of its claustrophobic confines, if you are now a part of the Digital Nomad revolution, you should consider an extended working holiday on a paradise island. I mean, why not?!

Once the novelty of working in your pyjamas in your apartment wears off, the next step should be an exciting trip to one of the world’s remote and beautiful islands.Some islands are busy and boisterous and you may have to possess a modicum of discipline to stay focused, while others are relaxed, laid-back and practically distraction-free.

Get Inspired by the Lush, Green Mountains of Madeira as you fly in low over the dark mid-Atlantic Ocean, your first glimpse of Madeira will take your breath away. Just as you begin to worry that maybe your plane is about top lunge into the sea, two giant craggy sea stacks explode out of the water beneath you, and within seconds, you are touching down on a gleaming black tarmac. Just landing on Madeira is an epic experience! This Portuguese outpost, situated several hundred miles off the northwest African coast, is a wonderland of dark green mountains. The hiking is some of the best in the world. The capital is Funchal, a sleepy, friendly city with plenty of good restaurants and laid-back bars. Being able to end your work day in a comfy chair on a terrace while sipping a cocktail and watching the sun slowing slip into the blue Atlantic makes Madeira a divine location.

NomadX can help you to settle in by offering a selection of Private apartments, and Coliving spaces on some of the best spots of the Island. Check all our available listings here.

In case you are still not convinced, we’ve highlighted some reasons to go to Madeira including stunning scenery, natural lava swimming pools, and world-class fireworks.

Swim in Amazing Coastal Rock Pools

On the northwest tip of Madeira, the village of Porto Moniz is home to a series of natural swimming pools formed by volcanic lava. They’re naturally filled by the sea and the water is crystal clear.

Although the pools are completely natural, there are handy amenities on site like changing rooms, a children’s play area, restrooms, lockers, sun loungers, and a snack bar.

West of Funchal you can walk along the coastal promenade to rock pools cut into cliffs including Doca do Cavacas and Camara de Lobos.

See Breathtaking Scenery

This striking island is made up of dramatic cliffs, lush valleys, black rocky beaches and a wild and wonderful interior crisscrossed by ancient water channels (levadas).

Two-thirds of the island is classified as a nature reserve and the volcanic soil means that pretty much anything can grow on the land. Beyond the capital Funchal, the island’s peaks and ravines are pretty much deserted leaving them free for hiking, climbing, mountain biking, and canyoning.

See One of The Largest Fireworks Shows in The World

Funchal’s New Year’s Eve fireworks display lights up the entire bay with a spectacular pyrotechnics show. The shape of the bay provides a natural amphitheater and fireworks are set off from more than 50 different spots. The tradition dates to the 17th century when huge bonfires were lit up on the last night of each year.

The event held the Guinness World Record for the largest fireworks display in the world in 2006 and remains one of the best places to be on New Year’s Eve.

Taste World Class Wine

Madeira’s fertile soil and warm climate make it a top wine producing spot and the island has been producing some of the world’s best fortified wines for over 500 years.

Madeira Wine can be enjoyed both as an aperitif (served dry) and a digestif(served sweet). Head to the charming fishing village of Câmara de Lobos for a free tasting at top wine producer, Henriques &Henriques or in Funchal join a tour and tasting at Blandy’s, a famous wine lodge that dates to 1811.

Enjoy Year Around Sun

Known as the “island of eternal spring,” Madeira’s subtropical climate makes it a great destination to visit all year round. The hottest months are August and September when temperatures reach around 26 degrees Centigrade (78 degreesFahrenheit) but it’s a popular spot to seek out winter sunshine as temperatures hover around 19 degrees Centigrade (66 degrees Fahrenheit) in January and February.

Given Madeira’s diverse landscape, it has quite dramatic microclimates which means that you’re never far away from sunshine, wherever you are on the island.

Walk on Europe’s Highest Cliff Skywalk

For knee-trembling views of Madeira’s stunning coastline, head to Cabo Girão where the best viewpoint is from the suspended glass platform at Europe’s highest skywalk.

The lookout spot is 580 meters above sea level and the views stretch past the cute town of Câmara de Lobos into Funchal. It’s free to visit and you can grab a coffee from the on-site cafe to calm your nerves before or after your trip. While there consider riding the Rancho cable car down to the beach at Fajãs do Cabo Girão.

Go Tasting at a Beautiful ArtDeco Food Market

Get a taste of local life at the Mercado dos Lavradores (farmers or workers’ market), an Art Deco food market in Funchal that dates back to 1940. The two-tiered hall is decorated with intricate hand-painted tiles and is packed full of stalls selling tropical fruit, vegetables, spices and flowers.

Don’t leave without sampling some fruit you’ve never heard of before and seeing the lively fishmongers work their magic on the catch of the day in the separate fish hall.

Article written and published by: Trip Savy / Buckitdream