The island of Madeira is proving to be a popular part of the Portugal property market, it has been stated.

Located in the Atlantic, the island offers a wealth of attractions that Portugal property investors might enjoy, such as golf courses, lush countryside, a sub-tropical climate and a colonial feel, the Independent reports.

The paper notes that most of the property development is concentrated near the island’s capital, Funchal, with sales director of the under-construction Azulara development Bernard Hornung explaining this is "not only because they [visitors and expats] prefer to be within easy reach of the sea but because this side of the island gets the most sun".

Strict planning controls prevent the island being overwhelmed with a "glut" of properties that could distort the market, Connie Vitto of Quadrant Overseas told the paper.

Famous Madeirans include the footballer Cristiano Ronaldo and fashion designer Fatima Lopes.

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