Planning a family holiday to Madeira is a little different from choosing a hotel for a traditional beach holiday. Madeira is an island of mountains, forests, natural swimming areas, dramatic viewpoints and beautiful coastal towns — and families often spend as much time exploring as they do relaxing by the pool.

Madeira is famous for dramatic cliffs, volcanic landscapes and beautiful Atlantic views—but if you are travelling with children, finding the right beach can make a big difference to your holiday.

Unlike many Mediterranean destinations, Madeira does not have long stretches of natural sandy beaches. Most of the coastline is volcanic, with pebbles, rocks and swimming areas carved into the shore. However, there are several excellent family-friendly beaches, including some with imported golden sand and protected swimming areas.

Madeira is an excellent destination for a family holiday with toddlers. You don't need to fill every day with big excursions or long walks. Some of the best experiences for young children are surprisingly simple: riding a cable car, watching fish in a garden pond, playing in a park, seeing the ocean, exploring a traditional village or spending an afternoon at a family-friendly swimming complex.

The key to enjoying Madeira with a toddler is slowing the pace down.

Madeira is an excellent destination for a family holiday, especially if your children enjoy being outdoors and discovering new places.

You can spend one day looking for dolphins and whales in the Atlantic, another exploring a tropical garden, and another swimming in volcanic natural pools. There are also cable cars, easy walks, traditional villages, beaches, museums and plenty of places where children can simply run around and have fun.