Summary
Short description
Explore the beautiful landscapes of Madeira on this eight-day self-drive
Highlights
- Enjoy the freedom of the road and stays across Madeira to explore its pristine natural world of mountain-framed vineyards and aqueduct-lined walks
- Stay in a pair of historic quinta properties – century-old country villas invariably cloaked in colourful botanic gardens
- Make the most of the island's sun with its idyllic coastlines and plenty of time for some relaxation poolside
In pictures
About
Recommended for:
Air bridge holidays | April holidays | Beach | December holidays | February holidays | History & culture | March holidays | Natural world | November holidays | October holidays | Self-drive | Spa
Famous for its welcoming locals, natural beauty and mild climate, Madeira is a perfect year-round destination, just three-and-a-half hours from London. The wonderful local flora means it's often referred to as the Atlantic's 'Floating Garden', with great forests carpeting cragged peaks and spilling down to wild coastlines and more than 600 miles of walking trails – many following the island's levadas or aqueducts. This self-drive takes in the best of it, combining countryside stays in characterful quintas with spectacular driving routes and ample time to explore the island's capital, Funchal.
Day by day itinerary
Days
1-3
Quinta das Vinhas
Enjoy complimentary airport lounge access before your flight to Madeira. On arrival, make your way to the sunny south of the island and Quinta das Vinhas, where you'll be situated right in the middle of an organic vineyard with delightful sea views. It all spills down onto the shimmering Atlantic – a view best taken in from the swimming pool or the sun terraces of the 17th-century manor house. Relax further with superlative dining at the restaurant and wine bar, where the terrace overlooks the vineyards to the sea. Despite its secluded, green-fringed position, you'll also be within touching distance of Funchal. Here, 300-year-old manors remember the life of Madeiran aristocracy, art collections beautify bishop's palaces and narrow streets weave through historic fishermen's cottages and merchants' houses. Closer to base, the village of Calheta is just a 5 minute drive away.
Stay: Quinta das Vinhas (Superior)
Meals: B
Days
4-7
Quintinha São João
Head east towards Funchal and the beautiful Quintinha de São João. Perched high just outside Funchal's historical centre, this elegant hideaway enjoys enchanting views of the city below. The hotel is cloaked in the greenery of perfectly manicured gardens. After a busy day exploring the boulevards and pretty squares of the capital, the hotel's outdoor freshwater swimming pool invites you to take a dip, whilst the "Spa da Quintinha" offers the perfect disconnect with re-energising treatments.
Stay: Quintinha de São João, Madeira (Deluxe)
Meals: B
Day
8
Departure
Drop your car back at Funchal's airport to make your flight home.
Meals: B
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