Quinta Do Monte, Funchal

Advantages: No extremes of temperature, interesting food, sheer beauty and still not too spoiled by tourism
Disadvantages: No beach, most of Madeira is hillside

...I visited Madeira in May and December 2000. I stayed at Raga Hotel and Quinta de Sol, travelling each time from Manchester. I got about using the bus service which, once the various timetables have been mastered, provides interesting journeys into the countryside. The views are stunning though not too good for those with a fear of heights. There are many interesting restaurants in Funchal and some of them put on floor shows of Madeiran music. This music and dance is remarkably like the English morris dancing. If visiting without a car it would be best to stay in or around Funchal. If one stayed in one of the outlying villages one would be rather cut off without a car. The island is a gardener's paradise and I would make special mention of the Botanic Garden and Monte.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Within the town of Funchal with all its amenities
Disadvantages: Steep climb back up to the hotel

...We stayed at the Quinta Bella Sao Tiego on our second visit to Madeira. It has a lovely outlook over the old town of Funchal. The room and room service were very good, well upto 4* standard. A fault with the ventilation in the bathroom was fixed quickly and politely. Receptionists were particularly helpful. The pool area is small, but adequate. Breakfast was good with a range of cold and cooked choices. We didn't eat there in the evening as there were so many great eateries in the vacinity. We loved the "smaller hotel" feel after staying in the larger, less personal one in the Lido area. The only problem with the hotel is that it is up a steep hill - great for going down to the town, but not so good when you return. There are loads of restaurants nearby, from a good Pizza place, to more expensive fish restaurants. It would... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Beautiful picturesque island, not too hot in summer
Disadvantages: Hilly, poor restaurants, no sandy beaches

.... ~Getting out and about~ On foot- As Madeira is on a large granite mass sat out in the Atlantic it has very steep cliffs and gradients. Just walking around Funchal requires good legs for hill climbing and negotiating large numbers of steps. After two weeks my calf muscles were like iron and my thighs were getting a great workout too. Fortunately for those less able there are other options which are available. By Car- We didn't hire a car as I have been to Portugal before and thought all the local drivers wanted to die. Their driving is fast, overtaking is hazardous and generally I didn't want to be a part of it. As Madeira is a small island you should not need a car if you stay in Funchal as the public transport is so good. If you do hire a car you should not need it for more than a week. By Taxi- Taxi's in Funchal are everywhere... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average very helpful