01989 730552 madeira@rediscover.co.uk

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Madeira Time

Funchal

Funchal enjoys a dramatic location, facing the Atlantic with its steep slopes covered in thousands of red roofed houses. These slopes were once carpeted in fennel (Funchal is Portuguese for 'fennel'). Large amounts of this herb were discovered here by Portuguese naval leaders when they first arrived in 1418. The city has been a major port of call for cruise ships over the years. One of the first landmarks passengers would have seen would have been the imposing façade of Reid’s Hotel. Over the years this famous hotel has played host to royalty, politicians, authors and actors. As a treat pop along (booking recommended) for afternoon tea – dress code applies.

Most of Madeira’s historic buildings and museums are located in Funchal and even though it is the capital of the island it is very easy to walk round. It is pleasant to take a stroll along the promenade in Funchal, which is lined with restaurants and bars.  This is also the setting of the famous firework display at New Year, accompanied by the church bells and answered by the sirens of the cruise shops in the bay. The Old Town has former fishermen’s houses amongst its cobbled streets, parks, and baroque churches. In the evening you will find a wealth of bars, restaurants and taverns, some with traditional music; to the west is the area where larger hotels can be found. 

Madeira is one of the world’s legendary fortified wines, which has been enjoyed for centuries. There are several wine lodges in the city and it is well worth taking a guided tour, which usually culminates in wine tasting! The flower market in Funchal is also worth a visit. Here you will find a veritable riot of colour - stall holders wear the distinctive Madeiran costume and you will see all sorts of beautiful flowers for which the island is renowned. They will even box them up for your flight home. Madeira’s wonderful flowers can also be seen in their natural habitat as several Quintas, on the slopes above Funchal, have opened up their gardens to the public.

Madeira Botanical Gardens are just a short bus or taxi ride away. The garden is divided into sections exhibiting local as well as foreign plants, over 2500 species in total.  One part is given over to the Parrot Park, which holds around 300 birds. Just below the gardens is the Orchid Garden. From both you have the most incredible panorama of Funchal. Please see below for our choice of characterful hotels in this fascinating city.

Click on a link below to view details of our selected accommodation in Funchal:

Quinta Bela Sao Tiago		Quinta da Casa Branca		Quinta Perestrello
The characterful Quinta Bela Sao Tiago near the old town of Funchal offers a gracious retreat with a warm and relaxed atmosphere.		Quinta Casa Branca is set in the beautiful, extensive grounds of a family estate. Traditional meets modern and stylish.		The Quinta Perestrello is located in a prestigious area of the capital - between Reid’s and the Savoy.
Quinta da Bela Vista		Cliff Bay Hotel		Porto Santa Maria
Sophisticated, traditional and luxurious this former manor house has been converted into a high quality hotel in well-tended gardens.		The Cliff Bay hotel enjoys many facilities, including a fantastic spa centre and beautiful gardens. Ideal for a spot of pampering!		A superb location in Funchal, sandwiched between the old town, the sea, the 17th Century Forte de Sao Tiago and the ground station for the cable car up to Monte.

Holiday Prices

- please call or email for a full quote - all our holidays are tailor-made.

Funchal    Coast    Inland    villas & apartments    Porto Santo    Short Breaks    Car Hire    Levada Walking     Off the Beaten Track Fly-Drive    Coast & History Fly-Drive    Essential information     Map of Madeira & Porto Santo  Tel: + 44 (0) 1989 730 552                 EMAIL: