Madeira

Also known as: Autonomous Region of Madeira, Região Autónoma da Madeira (Portuguese)

📍 Madeira is an autonomous region of Portugal located in the North Atlantic Ocean, southwest of mainland Portugal and west of Morocco. The archipelago consists of the main islands of Madeira and Porto Santo, along with smaller uninhabited islets, with no land borders and surrounded entirely by the Atlantic Ocean.

Madeira’s geography is defined by its volcanic origin, featuring steep mountains, deep valleys, and dramatic coastal cliffs. The region covers about 801 square kilometers (309 square miles) and includes rugged terrain with limited flat land, especially on the main island. The landscape is known for its lush vegetation, supported by a mild subtropical climate and a network of irrigation channels called levadas. The coastline is mostly rocky, though some sandy beaches exist, particularly on Porto Santo. Madeira’s natural features and Atlantic location have shaped its development as a center for tourism, agriculture, and maritime activity.