The island destination of Madeira is fast becoming a European hub for travelling winter golfers, with increasing numbers eager to experience the many benefits of playing world-class golf in a safe and secure environment.
Thousands of players from all over the continent have headed to the Portuguese islands in recent weeks, taking full advantage of the golfing hotspot’s exempt status on many countries’ Covid-19 travel quarantine lists.
Madeira and her islands – which boasts three golf courses – is proving particular popular with golfers from the UK and northern Europe seeking a long-term break in a warm and safe destination, and bookings are set to increase even further over the coming months.
With no quarantine period required upon visiting, demand is particularly growing in countries including England, Wales, Scotland, Germany, France, Austria and the Netherlands.
A recent report by Post Office Travel Money highlighted Madeira as the cheapest island destination for Britons considering an autumn sunshine break abroad in eight destinations on European and Caribbean islands that are not on the UK government’s quarantine list.
And visitors can travel to Madeira safe in the knowledge that there are strict rules in place for everyone flying into Madeira airport.
Prior to arrival, all passengers must complete the Regional Health Authority’s epidemiological survey and will need to submit a negative Covid-19 test within 72 hours of departure, although, if they have not performed a test in advance, they will be required to take one upon arrival at the airport – with costs covered by the local authorities. Incoming visitors will also be subject to thermal screening, even if they carry a negative test for Covid-19.
Discover Madeira, the consumer-facing brand of the Madeira Promotion Bureau, has been working with the local and Portuguese authorities to put plans in place for all holidaymakers to visit safely, with the “Madeira Safe to Discover” guidelines being stringently followed across the islands to control and prevent the spread of Coronavirus and other possible infections.
Hotels, restaurants, bars, golf clubs and other tourist activities across the islands are also adopting the “Clean and Safe” stamp, created by VisitPortugal, which distinguishes tourist activities which are compliant with certain hygiene and cleaning requirements.
Madeira’s three golf courses include two on the mainland – Santo da Serra and Palheiro Golf, as well as Porto Santo Golf, which is located on the nearby island of Porto Santo.