Social media-savvy vacationers have been visiting Madeira more recently than the super-fit sixtysomethings who loved to wear skin-tight trousers.

After seeing so many pictures of “the Hawaii of Europe” on my account, I had to check out the viral TikTok movies of the Portuguese island off the coast of Morocco.

Off the coast of Morocco is the Portuguese island that is referred to as “the Hawaii of Europe.” Thankfully, the breathtaking vistas, striking hues, and fascinating opportunities did not let us down.Seeing the sunrise from Pico do Arieiro was a must-do experience, according to internet celebrities who provided me with inspiration for my eight-day vacation. Since it’s only 30 minutes from Funchal, the capital, I set my alarm for 5.15 a.m. and dragged myself up the mountain in the dark in a rental car to start the difficult but incredibly rewarding “Pico to Pico” trek.

These Santana homes depict how people lived hundreds of years ago.

For those who dare, this climb ascends 6,106 feet to the island’s highest mountain, 6,975 feet Pico do Ruivo. I found a spot to watch what turned out to be the most spectacular sunrise I had ever seen when I got to the starting point. I used GetYourGuide (£52.22pp; getyourguide.com) to book the excursion, which also included ham and cheese breakfast sandwiches. The atmosphere was electric, with everyone waiting breathlessly for the big moment. At 7.30 a.m., when the sun rose so magnificently that people cheered, the real magic happened. The orange hue above the clouds was lovely already.

The island has a year-round summer that lasts from January to December, with highs in the high teens to mid-20s.

Even if you don’t, getting through the remaining must-do activities on Madeira will need you to walk for over five hours. Pico to Pico offers 7.5 miles of breathtaking views of the surrounding regions via mountain tunnels and down canyons, if you’re up for the challenge. The trail is not for the weak of heart; I did not count the 4,000 stairs that are claimed to be on it. On the other hand, I saw people of all ages trying their luck.

Finish with bolo do caco, the island’s traditional bread, which is typically served with a generous helping of garlic butter. You really should try it before you leave. After that, you may share all of your amazing photos to Instagram and make your fans envious when you go back home.