Sunday, January 21, 2024

From historic town houses to rural retreats: 10 great places to stay in Madeira

Where to go on the Portuguese island for lush vegetation, clifftop settings, fine wine and the promise of winter sun

Set in the heart of Funchal’s atmospheric Old Town, the five historic houses that make up Castanheiro offer guests an immersion in more than 300 years of Madeiran history. Communal areas in each house are filled with antique furniture and period pieces from its earlier incarnations – one as a handcraft atelier, another the home of wealthy traders – while bedrooms are sleek and modern. The cherry on the cake is the rooftop pool, with fantastic views over Funchal and plenty of quiet outdoor spaces on the walled terraces for relaxing with a book or a cocktail. There’s no restaurant, but plenty of good options within a minute or two’s stroll.
Doubles from £153 B&B; castanheiroboutiquehotel.com Continue reading...