WALKS IN THE FLOATING GARDEN

Our base in Funchal is the ***** Quinta da Bela Vista, one of the most exclusive hotels on Madeira. Secluded between the mountains and the sea, and with sweeping views across the Bay of Funchal, this recently extended manor house is the epitome of understated luxury. And it has been in the same family for over 150 years!

All the rooms are stylishly furnished and you’ll come across original paintings and rare antiques throughout the buildings. There are two fine restaurants (small supplement to be paid locally for the à la cartedining room), heated outdoor swimming pool, sauna, jacuzzi and tennis court. A regular complimentary shuttle service is provided to and from Funchal (5-10 mins), and there are beautifully established private gardens if you simply want to relax.

Your walking guide for the week is Jorge Rosa, a native of the island and keen botanist. His comfortable air-conditioned minibus gets us to all the corners of the island, and paths along levadasprovide access to remote hill villages. Lunches are either copious picnics or are arranged for you in local restaurants en route. There’s a boat trip to the little visited island of Porto Santo, where Christopher Columbus once lived.

For more infomation about this holiday, including hotel descriptions, travel options and full holiday itinerary, please see our new 'further details' section.