A European island enjoys 20C weather in December and some of the most underrated views in the world. As the UK experiences considerably low temperatures in November, which are expected to continue into December, many people are dreaming of escaping to where the sun still shines and temperatures stay warm. Temperatures have plunged below freezing in many parts of the UK but there is one place in Europe they certanly haven't.

Those living on this island are currently basking in temperatures around the low 20s, even as the depths of winter arrive. Better still, it is home to incredible experiences and some of the most breathtaking scenery you will ever lay your eyes upon. The holiday hotspot is owned by Portugal, but it is actually in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Morocco in North Africa. If you haven't guessed already, the island in question is Madeira.

Madeira has been dubbed the "Hawaii of Europe" because of its spectacular scenery, which includes incredible cliffside views, lush green forests and some of the best road trips you will ever go on.

Plus, it is home to the airport where pilots have to be specially trained for landing, as it is notoriously difficult given its unique cliffside location. Madeira is full of things to keep you entertained, and it enjoys stunning weather throughout the year.

Temperatures reach highs of 20C in December, but the average high tends to be around 18C, which is pretty hot when you compare it to the dull and cold winter being experienced by folks in the UK.

The top-rated tourist attraction in Madeira is Monte Palace Madeira, which is located five kilometres outside of the city of Funchal. It is described as one of Madeira's most stunning attractions and is the perfect backdrop for a holiday photo.

There is also Pico de Arieiro, which is the third-highest peak on the island and offers incredible views. Meanwhile, cable cars are dotted around the island to give you views of it from a unique vantage point.

For such a small island, there are almost too many natural wonders to count. Other top-rated natural attractions include the Valley of the Nuns, Pico Ruivo, the waterfall at Levada do Caldeirao Verde and Garajau Partial Nature Reserve.

While temperatures remain pretty warm in winter, summer is perhaps the best time to visit Madeira. In the peak month of August, it can get as hot as 23C.

It makes for a nice change from the rest of Europe, which can experience extremely hot heatwaves throughout the summer months, like several that happened in the summer of 2025.

People who have visited Madeira have had incredible things to say about it. In fact, some people want to keep it a secret.

One Reddit user wrote: "I don't want it to become too popular tbh. But it is really great, especially if you love hiking, biking or are outdoorsy in any way. Stunning scenery and lots of different microclimates."

Another said: "It's among my favourite places in the world, and I'm considering buying a house there."