Luxury Vacations to Azores and Madeira

Scattered far into the Atlantic Ocean, the archipelagos of the Azores and Madeira in Portugal feel a world apart from the mainland — places shaped by volcanic forces, softened by ocean winds, and enriched by centuries of island life. From crater lakes and cloud forests to cobbled old towns and cliffside vineyards, they offer an escape defined by nature, character, and adventure. A luxury vacation to the Azores and Madeira with Lightfoot will reveal the rhythm of each island — the scenery, the stories, the stillness, and the people who call them home.

The Best of the Azores & Madeira

The Azores are a place of raw, elemental beauty. Across nine islands, you’ll find volcanic craters filled with shimmering lakes, ancient laurel forests, and natural hot springs where you can soak after a day of hiking. On São Miguel, the largest island, crater-rim viewpoints open onto luminous blue and green lakes, while the town of Furnas simmers with geothermal energy, where traditional Cozido stews are slow-cooked underground by volcanic heat. The islands are also one of the best places in Europe for spotting whales and dolphins, with over 20 species passing through these waters each year.

Madeira, further south, is greener, warmer, and more cultivated in feel. Known for its year-round bloom, the island is famed for its dramatic peaks, terraced hillsides and gently crumbling quintas hidden in botanical gardens. Walk the levadas — narrow irrigation channels that wind through forest and farmland — or wander Funchal’s old town, where local markets and family-run tavernas sit beside elegant wine lodges and Art Deco cafés. Whether you’re hiking above the clouds or enjoying a long lunch on a terrace overlooking the ocean, Madeira has a quiet confidence and grace all its own. Together, the Azores and Madeira offer a refreshing alternative to more expected European destinations — a chance to slow down, breathe deeply, and travel off the beaten track..

Tours & Trips to the Azores & Madeira

Our travel specialists know the Azores and Madeira well and will design an itinerary that reflects your interests, pace, and style. Whether you're combining both regions into a twin-centre island journey, planning a romantic escape in the mountains of Madeira, or looking for an active family adventure in the Azores, every detail will be thoughtfully considered – from boutique stays and private guides to insider experiences and curated tastings.