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Madeira Island, Europe's Leading Island Destination 2024, once again stole the spotlight at the 31st World Travel Awards™ Gala Ceremony held at the prestigious Ritz-Carlton in Berlin, Germany, on March 6, 2024. This glittering event was a celebration of excellence in the travel and tourism industry across Europe, with Portugal emerging as a standout winner, clinching an impressive total of 31 prizes.
Among the highlights of the evening was Madeira Island's remarkable achievement, securing the prestigious title for the 10th time. This recognition reaffirms Madeira's status as a top travel destination, with previous wins in 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2023. The autonomous region of Madeira has consistently impressed travellers with its natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality. This year's win further solidifies Madeira's reputation as a must-visit island destination in Europe. The region's stunning landscapes, from lush green mountains to picturesque coastlines, continue to captivate visitors from around the world.
In addition to Madeira Island's success, Porto Santo, a picturesque island in the Madeira archipelago, emerged victorious, securing the coveted title of ‘Europe's Leading Beach Destination’ for the first time, surpassing renowned competitors such as the Algarve (Portugal), Cannes (France), Corfu, Costa Navarino (Greece), Mallorca, Marbella (Spain), and Sardinia (Italy). This acknowledgement highlights the diverse offerings of the Madeira archipelago, catering to both beach lovers and nature enthusiasts.
The Madeira Promotion Bureau was also named ‘Europe's Leading Tourist Board 2024’, recognising its outstanding efforts to promote Madeira as a top travel destination. The prestigious Savoy Palace, by Savoy Signature, emerged as a major winner at the ceremony, claiming the titles of ‘Europe's Leading Luxury Hotel 2024’ and ‘Portugal's Leading Luxury Hotel 2024’. This remarkable achievement builds on the hotel's legacy of excellence, which has previously been recognised in similar categories in 2021, 2022, and 2023. Vila Baleira Resort in Porto Santo was also named 'Europe's Leading Island Resort 2024'.
Furthermore, Portugal's success at the World Travel Awards extends beyond Madeira and Porto Santo, with Braga being honoured as ‘Europe’s Leading Emerging Tourism Destination 2024’, the Azores as ‘Europe’s Leading Adventure Tourism Destination 2024’, Porto as ‘Europe's Leading Seaside Metropolitan Destination 2024’, and Lisbon as ‘Europe's Leading City Destination 2024’. Attractions such as the Passadiços do Paiva in Portugal (Arouca UNESCO Global Geopark) once again captivated travellers' hearts, securing the title of ‘Europe's Leading Adventure Tourist Attraction 2024’, and TAP was lauded as 2024 Europe's Leading Airline for travelling to South America and Africa, reflecting its exceptional service and extensive route network.
The event revealed various winners across Europe, including notable recognitions such as ‘Europe’s Leading Destination’ awarded to Greece and ‘Europe’s Leading Hotel’ to Istanbul’s Çırağan Palace Kempinski. Additionally, new establishments like The Peninsula London (UK) and One&Only Aesthesis (Athens) were acknowledged as 'Europe's Leading New Hotel' and 'Europe’s Leading New Resort', respectively. These accolades not only recognise exceptional destinations but also inspire travellers to explore new horizons and create unforgettable experiences.
Among the glitz and glamour of the ceremony, it was announced that The Savoy Palace will host the prestigious World Travel Awards Grand Final in Madeira on November 24, 2024, bringing the industry's global leaders to the island. The 11th World Golf Awards Gala Ceremony is also scheduled for November 22, 2024, at The Savoy Palace. This event will be the highlight of a two-day golf itinerary that includes golf at Club de Golfe Santo Da Serra on the 21st and a round at Palheiro Golf on the 22nd. Notably, this will be Madeira's first time hosting such a prestigious event, bringing together key figures in the golf industry and highlighting the island's growing popularity as a top destination for both leisure and business travellers.
Our live streaming webcams capture the stunning urban landscapes and natural surroundings of Madeira Island, so don't miss out on the opportunity to see it for yourself.
