GALLERY
The island is the top of a massive submerged shield volcano that rises about 6 km (3.7 mi) from the floor of the Atlantic Ocean. The volcano formed atop an east-west in the oceanic crust along the African Plate, beginning during the Miocene epoch over 5 million years ago, continuing into the Pleistocene until about 700,000 years ago. This was followed by extensive erosion, producing two large amphitheatres open to south in the central part of the island. Volcanic activity later resumed, producing scoria cones and lava flows atop the older eroded shield. The most recent volcanic eruptions were on the west-central part of the island only 6,500 years ago, creating more cinder cones and lava flows
Madeira was named the "Best Island Destination" for the fifth consecutive year at the 2019 World Travel Awards European Gala that took place on June 8 at the Belmond Reid's Palace Hotel in Funchal, during the Atlantic Festival celebrations.
As a result of hosting next year's event, Madeira has a new tourism campaign showing the unique brand of Madeiran hospitality and the island's natural beauty, which is why Madeira was voted the best Island Destination in 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018. The island is also unique, as 77% of it is protected from urban development, ensuring that its Beauty and natural heritage are preserved for all to enjoy.
As a result of hosting next year's event, Madeira has a new tourism campaign showing the unique brand of Madeiran hospitality and the island's natural beauty, which is why Madeira was voted the best Island Destination in 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018. The island is also unique, as 77% of it is protected from urban development, ensuring that its Beauty and natural heritage are preserved for all to enjoy.