A sun-drenched island dubbed the "Hawaii of Europe" boasts 20C temperatures in February and flights for just £90. Britons seeking a tranquil retreat will also benefit from thinner crowds during the current off-peak tourist season.

Madeira, an autonomous Portuguese territory, lies in the Atlantic Ocean approximately 500 miles from mainland Portugal. The archipelago has proved hugely popular with holidaymakers, particularly between March and April, with British travellers amongst the island's most regular visitors.

Whilst the summer months draw beach-seekers, springtime attracts those wanting to savour a more peaceful ambience whilst participating in numerous outdoor pursuits.

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The island has become especially beloved by golf enthusiasts, with the Favellas Santo da Serra Golf Club's nine-hole course, which opened in 1937, sparking a boom in the sport's popularity.

Additionally, Madeira's dramatic terrain, waterways and sweeping forests have made it a magnet for adventure enthusiasts who enjoy activities such as canyoning or trail running. For visitors preferring a gentler pace, the island also serves as a favourite destination for those who simply relish a pleasant countryside ramble, reports the Express.

The archipelago is equally rich in art, history and heritage. Madeira's story dates back to 1418 when explorer João Gonçalves Zarco stumbled upon it after drifting days off course whilst navigating the Atlantic, with Portugal formally colonising the territory in 1425.

Over the years, the island has cultivated its own unique customs and heritage, notably the Bailinho da Madeira, which blends dancing, indigenous vocals and folk melodies. According to Visit Madeira, catching a performance by one of Funchal's authentic Bailinho troupes in the capital is an absolute "must" for tourists.

Travel vlogger Top Club highlighted Madeira amongst the top 12 sunshine destinations for escaping wintry conditions. During February, daytime temperatures can climb as high as 20C.

Top Club described the island as dubbed the "Hawaii of Europe" and the "Floating Garden of the Atlantic," noting: "This Portuguese archipelago is a true year-round destination, blessed with a sub-tropical climate that keeps it in a state of eternal spring.

"In winter you can expect incredibly mild temperatures that rarely drop below 14C and often hover around a delightful 20C. It's the perfect escape for those who crave nature, adventure and warmth.

"Madeira's appeal in winter lies in its lush landscapes and its incredible opportunities for outdoor activities. This is first and foremost a hiker's paradise.

"The island is famous for its Levadas, a remarkable network of irrigation channels that now double as stunning walking trails. Winter hiking in Madeira is spectacular. The rainfall keeps the Laurel Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, exceptionally vibrant, and the waterfalls are at their most powerful."

The content creator notes that numerous island visitors enjoy dolphin or whale-watching excursions, frequently with "great success", whilst the temperate climate still permits sea swimming. He characterised Funchal, which boasts a population of roughly 100,000, as a "charming and lively base for exploration" owing to its cable cars, bustling market and picturesque old town.

Budget carrier easyJet provides one-way flights to Madeira in February starting from just £90 for two passengers. The journey is expected to last approximately four hours.