Highly recommended Oct O8
Submitted: November 13, 2008
Stayed: October 2008
The apartment is high-spec and the owners have thoughtfully provided everything that one would need on holiday including umbrellas, a varied selection of books and even jigsaws for those so inclined. The apartment is well located within the tourist zone, with supermarket across the road (as well as a health food shop providing tofu for vegetarian visitors) and selection of bars, restaurants around the corner. Of course, these are not 'locals' but the bus-stop is literally just outside and a 10-min bus hop can bring a more madeiran flavour closer: for something more authentic look out for the small-scale 5/6 table cafe cum bars in the back streets where a small beer is accompanied by a plate of garlicy broad beans (or similar). The local lager 'Corral' must be one of the best lagers going and is much preferred to the house wine, which is poor quality. The local spirits, however, are in a league of their own with tropical fruit and nut flavours. The English church holds occasional concerts - the mandolin orchestra was very good, and the national theatre has an operatic programme. The maderia wine tour in the main street by the tourist information is highly informative, or at least I think it was but the detail got lost in the tastings that followed. Also recommended is the cable car and wicket basket descent from the moutain top in Monte. Driving is fine and not as difficult as some of the guide books suggest although the streets are narrow and the going is slow with the hills and bends. As the island is fairly compact a car is not really necessary for a long period and can be a hindrance to walkers as the most appealing walks are largely linear. The owner is extremely helpful and the administrative aspects are dealt with very efficiently and in good time. While not necessarily an 'authentic' experience, all in all the apartment is perfectly situated for location and comfort.
Recommended for:
Age 55+,
Girls Getaway,
Tourists without a Car,
Sightseeing,
Romantic Getaway
Owner's Response: Hi Tracey
Thanks for your comments and observations regarding your recent stay in Madeira-we feel they will be of good use to future guests.
It was interesting that you mentioned about the side streets in Funchal where you can experience a more Madeiran atmosphere-we often say this to our guests to search out the bars/cafes-Funchal is one of the safest cities in the world plus the nicest people.
Thanks again
Marie and Adrian
Helpful votes: 21/253
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