Go wild (and green) on this Atlantic island

More and more travelers are seeking meaningful experiences that respect and protect the planet, and Madeira is stepping up as an example of sustainable tourism. This lush Portuguese archipelago offers a perfect blend of breathtaking nature, eco-conscious activities, and cultural preservation. For visitors who care deeply about the environment, Madeira is more than just a destination – it’s a statement of values.

Among the many treasures that define this commitment to sustainability, the Laurel Forest stands as one of the island’s most remarkable symbols. Spanning around 15,000 hectares – roughly 20% of Madeira’s territory – this ancient subtropical forest is a vibrant green world teeming with life. With roots dating back over 20 million years, it is home to an extraordinary ecosystem, where dense vegetation shelters a wide range of native species, including majestic laurel trees, which lend their name to this unique forest. Recognized as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site since 1999, the Laurel Forest invites visitors to explore its vast network of “levadas” (traditional irrigation channels that run through the mountains and forests) and footpaths, where nature unfolds in silence and grandeur.

From the forest to the vineyards, Madeira’s relationship with the land is also reflected in its celebrated wine culture. How can we see that connection? Through the Madeira Wine Route, which invites visitors to journey through centuries of winemaking tradition that continues to thrive in harmony with nature. With plots reaching elevations of up to 700 meters, carved into steep hillsides and supported by dry stone walls, the region reveals a striking patchwork of terraces shaped by generations of careful hands, following the contours of the land. Visiting these vineyards is not just about tasting a world-renowned fortified wine – it’s about discovering how local producers balance tradition with sustainable practices, preserving both their craft and the beauty of the landscape.

This deep connection to nature can also be felt in more personal ways, like through the practice of yoga in the open air. On Madeira, the landscape itself invites mindfulness. From quiet forest clearings to clifftop viewpoints and peaceful coastal settings, the island offers spaces where body and mind can find balance. Whether you’re a dedicated yogi or simply seeking a moment of calm, practicing yoga here becomes more than exercise – it’s a way to move in tune with nature, to breathe with the rhythm of the land, and to feel grounded in something greater.

Finally, just a short boat ride away, a visit to Porto Santo – Madeira’s smaller, golden-hued sister island – offers yet another perspective on sustainability. Designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Porto Santo is much more than its stunning nine-kilometer beach. Its well-preserved ecosystems, rural landscapes, and surrounding islets reflect a careful balance between nature and community. Here, sustainable development isn’t just a concept – it’s a way of life. From biodiversity conservation to the celebration of local traditions, every effort is aimed at protecting the island’s identity while enhancing the well-being of its people. Porto Santo stands as a quiet model of how tourism and conservation can thrive side by side.