Where to stay in Madeira to best enjoy the island?
There are options for everyone with resort towns, charming coastal villages or off the beaten path scenic locations…
Below is my guide where I compare the best places to stay in Madeira including:
- Best areas to stay in Madeira,
- Map to get your oriented,
- best hotels in Madeira, and best resorts, rentals,
- alternative accommodations…
Find your gem!
Where to stay in Madeira in 2023? – Quick answers
If you don’t want to read the entire article describing all the best areas to stay in Madeira, here are my simple answers.
They are applicable year-round, as Madeira is a great destination during all seasons.
Where to stay in Madeira – Map
And below is a map to help you locate all my selected areas listed below:
Overall best places to stay in Madeira – based on personality / activity criteria
- Where to stay in Madeira without a car –
Funchal old center or Funchal/Lido hotel area are definitively your best options (see best rated accommodations) - For luxury resort –
Funchal/Lido hotel (see best rated accommodations) - Quiet and scenic coastal village –
I love Porto da Cruz on the North Coast (see best rated accommodations) and Jardim do Mar on the South Coast (see best rated accommodations) - Best location to explore Madeira by car –
Ribeira Brava is central (see best rated accommodations) – although I recommend spending half of your trip in the East of the island and half on the West half of Madeira - For sandy beach and relaxing vibes –
Machico on the East coast (see best rated accommodations) or Calheta on the South Coast (see best rated accommodations)
- For natural pools –
Porto Moniz at the North-West tip (see best rated accommodations) - For a village with a lot of charm and many restaurants –
Camara de Lobos (see best rated accommodations) or Ponta do Sol (see best rated accommodations) - For incredible mountain views –
The hotel at the viewpoint Eira do Serrado overlooking the Valley of the Nuns (see availability) - For originality / Unique experiences –
Soul Glamping luxury tent with a view (see availability) or ancient cave house in Calhau da Lapa (see availability) - With kids –
Many recommend Santa Cruz (see best rated accommodations) if you have kids because of the Aquapark. - Where to stay in Madeira for hiking:
For the hikes on the East side, I recommend Porto da Cruz (see best rated accommodations) – and for the hikes on the West side of the island, I recommend Calheta on the South Coast (see best rated accommodations) or Sao Vicente on the North shore (see best rated accommodations).
And you can find information about each of those areas (including accommodation suggestions), further down in this article.
North coast vs south coast – best area to stay in Madeira?
One of the frequent question is North Coast vs South Coast.
Pros of the North Coast:
- Wilder
- More scenic (in my opinion)
- Less crowded
Pros of the South Coast:
- Larger choice of restaurants
- More vibrant towns
- Sunnier
If you are traveling to Madeira in Winter and looking for the Winter Sun, then the South Coast is you best bet.
How long to stay in Madeira
I don’t think you should visit for a long weekend. It is not really adapted.
The minimum should be a week but I think 10 days is best to enjoy all the various areas on the island.
And with a longer trip, you can also head to Porto Santo, the other inhabited island of the archipelago.
All my favorite places to visit are included in my travel Guide eBook that helps you easily plan your Madeira trip:
Plan your dream trip in Madeira thanks to my guide
- 7 maps to easily plan your itinerary
- 120+ pre-selected locations
- GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
- Tips to make the most of your time
- 260+ original photos to help you choose
Best Hotels, Resorts and accommodations in Madeira
You could also choose where to stay in Madeira based on your hotel preferences.
Therefore, I am listing some of the best hotels and resorts on the entire island.
About the selection:
I have created this guide totally independently. None of the hotels has paid to be included. The suggestions are my own selection, based on my experience and my research. But to be transparent, I am informing you that, of course, I have not stayed at all the hotels listed.
Best Luxury hotels and resorts in Madeira – resorts guide
- Quinta Jardins do Lago – on the hills of Funchal mixing history and views – check out photos and availability
- Les Suites at Cliff Bay – In the Funchal hotel area, with stunning sea views – check out photos and availability
- Reid’s Palace – In the Funchal hotel area with subtropical gardens – check out photos and availability
- Savoy Palace – classic and elegant between the Old Funchal and the hotel area – check out photos and availability
- Enotel Lido Madeira – if you are looking for an all-inclusive experience – check out photos and availability
Boutique Hotels
- Engenho Velho Hotel – Only 10 spacious rooms and a delicious restaurant, in Arco da Calheta – check out photos and availability
- Estalagem da Ponta do Sol – in a renovated farmhouse and perched on a cliff – check out photos and availability
- ARTS IN Hotel Conde Carvalhal – a restored mansion in Funchal’s old town – check out photos and availability
- Casa das Proteas – quiet and off the beaten path in Sao Jorge on the North Coast – check out photos and availability
- Dazkarizeh73 – for an exotic ambiance in Ribeira Brava – check out photos and availability
Rentals
- The Wine Lodges – Luxury apartments in Funchal – check out photos and availability
- Romantic Studio – above Funchal old center with access to garden and pool – check out photos and availability
- Above the Sea Apartment – in Camara dos Lobos with amazing sea views – check out photos and availability
- Apartment Villa Sol II – in Ponta do Sol with Panoramic views – check out photos and availability
- Casa das Abertas – open views and modern decor in Arco da Calheta – check out photos and availability
- Machico Nature – very modern decor in Machico – check out photos and availability
- and many, many more – check out only best rated apartments and villas in Madeira
Hostels
- Garden Guest House – quiet in Sao Vicente, warm welcome – check out photos and availability
- The Waves Hostel – in Sao Vicente with its beach – check out photos and availability
- Jaca Hostel in Porto da Cruz, close to the beach – check out photos and availability
- Santa Maria Hostel in Funchal – check out photos and availability
Sustainable accommodations in Madeira (ecofriendly)
You can’t find totally “green” accommodations, but some are making a significant effort to reduce their impact on Nature.
Below are suggestions:
- Quinta Alegre with solar panels and optimisation of water management – in Estreito da Calheta – check out photos and availability
- Hotel Orca Praia in Funchal with solar system, biomass boiler and more – check out photos and availability
- Casa Minami in Ponta do Sol – small and minimalist – check out photos and availability
Need to rent a car in Madeira?
My tips:
- Compare prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
- Choose a car with enough power for the mountain roads
- And choose a car not too big, to easily manoeuver
- Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind!
- Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!
Area 1 – Funchal old center
About Funchal
Capital city of the Madeira Region, Funchal has a large variety of area.
In the old center, you can find:
- streets with a lot of charm,
- cathedral, chapels and museums,
- easy access to the seafront and Marina,
- many restaurants,
- lots of transportation options.
Why stay in Funchal – Analysis
- LOCATION –
East of South coast - BUSYNESS –
Very busy, as it is the main town - BEACHES –
Not ideal – small pebble beach near yellow fort (close to cable car) - FACILITIES & SHOPS –
All you may need with restaurants and shops - NEARBY ATTRACTIONS and ACTIVITIES –
Inside Funchal old town, you can visit the Cathedral, the Jesuit college and many museums.
You can also take the cable car to the Monte area, famous for its garden and church.
It is the departing point for most boat tours.
And you can book day trips from Funchal to explore the island. See options.
The main attractions on this corner of the island are:
– the cliffs of Cabo Girao,
– the charming village of Camara de Lobos,
– the impressive valley of Curral das Freiras (valley of the nuns),
– the famous peak Pico do Arieiro,
– Ponta do Garajau and the statue of the Christ.
Where to stay in Funchal old town?
- LUXURY HOTEL – in the center, Hotel the Vine– see photos and availability
- LUXURY HOTEL – Quinta Jardins do Lago – on the hills of Funchal mixing history and views – check out photos and availability
- Boutique: Castanheiro Boutique Hotel, in the old town – see photos and availability
- Boutique: Sé Boutique Hotel, in the old center – see photos and availability
- APARTMENT – The Wine Lodges – Luxury apartments in Funchal – check out photos and availability
- RENTAL – Romantic Studio – above Funchal old center with access to garden and pool – check out photos and availability
- HOSTEL – Santa Maria Hostel in Funchal – check out photos and availability
- Or see best rated accommodations
- Sadly, I have not found an excellent hotel on the lower part of the old town. I tried one, hoping the reviews were wrong, but I was very disappointed, so I am not listing the hotel here.
Area 2 – Funchal hotel district / Lido
About the Hotel district of Funchal
If you head West from the old center, past the harbor, you will reach an area where the coast is home to almost only hotels and resorts.
It starts from the Casino all the way to the end of the Lido Promenade.
Many are close to the water, offering beautiful views.
Why stay in Funchal Hotel District / Lido – Analysis
- LOCATION –
East of Funchal old Town – 10min to 30min walk (Coast of the Sao Martinho neighborhood. - BUSYNESS –
Very busy, almost only tourist - BEACHES –
Few beaches, but several seaside pool systems + many of the hotels have magnificent pools
Main one, is at the end, past the Lido Promenade: Praia Formosa (pebbles) - FACILITIES & SHOPS –
Mostly restaurants and shops, intended for tourists - NEARBY ATTRACTIONS and ACTIVITIES –
Not much to see in the area, except for the Lido Promenade and its small garden.
You can find many day trips leaving from here to explore the island. See options.
The main attractions on this corner of the island are:
– the cliffs of Cabo Girao,
– the charming village of Camara de Lobos,
– the impressive valley of Curral das Freiras (valley of the nuns),
– the famous peak Pico do Arieiro,
– Ponta do Garajau and the statue of the Christ.
Hotels and Accommodation Suggestions – many luxury hotels
- LUXURY – Les Suites at Cliff Bay – In the Funchal hotel area, with stunning sea views – check out photos and availability
- LUXURY – Reid’s Palace – In the Funchal hotel area with subtropical gardens – check out photos and availability
- LUXURY – Savoy Palace – classic and elegant between the Old Funchal and the hotel area – check out photos and availability
- ALL INCLUSIVE – Enotel Lido Madeira – if you are looking for an all-inclusive experience – check out photos and availability
- RENTAL – The seafront is only hotels – rentals are mostly on the hills or past the Lido, near Praia Formosa Beach e.g. Ocean Top Location – check out photos and availability
- or see best rated luxury accommodations
Find out more about the 4 areas to stay in Funchal in this other article.
Area 3 – Machico
About Machico
Machico is a town in a lush forest valley with a river and beautiful red-tiled houses.
It has become popular for its character, easy access to the main roads and golden sand beach (imported sand).
It is a great place to explore the East of Madeira.
Why stay in Machico – Analysis
- LOCATION –
East coast – 30min drive to Funchal old town - BUSYNESS –
It is one of the largest town, but it remains laid back and enjoyable - BEACHES –
Gold sand beach – Lifeguards are on duty – Protection for calm, safe for kids. - FACILITIES & SHOPS –
Bars and restaurants on the seafront, you will find all the shops you need for your stay. - NEARBY ATTRACTIONS and ACTIVITIES –
In Machico you will find a few monuments (chapels, forts…) from the 15th and 16th century.
From Machico you have easy access to:
– Caniçal and its whale museum,
– Ponta de Sao Louranço and its famous hike with volcanic cliffs,
– Santana and its traditional houses
– Ponta do Garajau and the statue of the Christ
Machico Hotels and Accommodation Suggestions
In Machico you will find mainly rentals.
- HOTEL – White Waters Hotel, close to the beach – check out pictures and availability
- RENTAL – Machico Nature – very modern decor in Machico – check out photos and availability
- SMALL HOUSE – Casa do Pescador, close to the beach with nice patio – check out pictures and availability
- GUESTHOUSE – Modern & Recycled Guest House with thoughtful decor – check out pictures and availability
- or see best rated accommodations
Area 4 – Calheta
About Calheta
Nestled below high volcanic cliffs, Calheta is another area famous for its beaches.
Located in one of the sunniest areas of the island, it will satisfy those wanting to spend time at the beach.
However, it is hilly, more difficult to access than Machico.
Why stay in Calheta – Analysis
- LOCATION –
West of South Coast, 40min drive from Funchal - BUSYNESS –
Very busy area, this is one of the most appreciated beaches - BEACHES –
Calheta beach with sand (imported) and protected areas for swimming. - FACILITIES & SHOPS –
Large choice of activities - NEARBY ATTRACTIONS and ACTIVITIES –
In Calheta you can enjoy the beach, the many outdoor activities offered (windsurfing, kayaking, scuba diving…) as well as the sugar cane old mills and banana plantations.
In this area of the island you have easy access to:
– Ponta do Sol with its beautiful seafront and bridge
– Jardim do Mar, a charming village with narrow streets
– Rabaçal and its hikes, especially the 25 Fontes levada walk that leads to a waterfall (the most famous levada walk on the island)
– Ribeira Brava and its church
Calheta Hotels and Accommodation Suggestions
- LUXURY – Saccharum – Resort & Spa, sitting on the beach – Check out photos and availability
- GLAMPING – Calheta Glamping Pods, surrounded by nature, in Estreito da Calheta – Check out photos and availability
- RENTAL – Apartamento MAR AZUL, just above the beach area – Check out photos and availability
- HOUSE RENTAL – Casa Agrela by Rent2U, just above the beach area – check out pictures and availability
- BOUTIQUE – Engenho Velho Hotel – Only 10 spacious rooms and a delicious restaurant, in Arco da Calheta (on cliffs above Calheta) – check out photos and availability
- or see best rated accommodations
I don’t drink coffee 
But I also like other drinks and sweets!
Do you like the free content you find on my blog? All my tips and practical information, without intrusive advertising…
Area 5 – Camara de Lobos
About Camara de Lobos
Camara de Labos is well known in Madeira. It is considered the most charming village on the island.
This is due to its situation around a harbor filled with colorful boat, that Churchill enjoyed painting. This is where Churchill used to stay in Madeira.
It has a lot of charm, with old houses, a beach, a seafront promenade and terraced plantations. Plus, it is quite easy to explore on foot.
Why stay in Camara de Lobos – Analysis
- LOCATION –
South Coast, just West of Funchal – 15min drive - BUSYNESS –
Very busy during the day, this is one of the main attractions on the island, especially as it can be easily reached from Funchal (by taxi, or hop on hop off bus) - BEACHES –
There is a small beach in front of the harbor and a larger beach on the West side of the town – both are pebbles - FACILITIES & SHOPS –
Many restaurants, few shops - NEARBY ATTRACTIONS and ACTIVITIES –
The town itself is an attraction: the seafront promenade, the Winston Churchill memorials (he loved painting here), the colorful harbor…
In the area you can easily access:
– Funchal old town
– Cabo Girao and its high cliffs
– Faja dos Padres and its cable car
– Curral das Freiras
– the impressive Valley of the Nuns
– Ponta do Sol - See more photos in Camara de Lobos article
Camara de Lobos Hotels and Accommodation Suggestions
- LUXURY – Pestana Churchill Bay, with panoramic views of the bay – Check out photos and availability
- APARTMENTS – Casa da Praia, with a lot of light – Check out photos and availability
- RENTAL – Above the Sea Apartment – in Camara dos Lobos with amazing sea views – check out photos and availability
- APARTMENTS – Sonho dos Avos, higher above Camara, with swimming pool – check out pictures and availability
- or see best rated accommodations
Area 6 – Ponta do Sol
About Ponta do Sol
Ponta do Sol is famous on Madeira as being the sunniest place on the island.
But it is also a charming town, with crystal clear waters, colorful buildings on the seafront and a photogenic old bridge.
Why stay in Ponta do Sol – Analysis
- LOCATION –
South Coast, West of Funchal – 30min drive - BUSYNESS –
This is a famous Madeira destination. Parking can be a pain (and not free). - BEACHES –
Ponta do Sol has a small pebble beach - FACILITIES & SHOPS –
Several restaurants close to the water and shops in the rest of towns - NEARBY ATTRACTIONS and ACTIVITIES –
The town itself is an attraction: visit the seafront and the church, the, admire the view from the old bridge. Look up to see all the banana plantations.
In this area of the island you have easy access to:
– Sao Vicente and the Lava caves
– Jardim do Mar, a charming village with narrow streets
– Rabaçal and its hikes, especially the 25 Fontes levada walk that leads to a waterfall (the most famous levada walk on the island)
– Ribeira Brava and its church - Learn more in my article about Ponta do Sol
Ponta do Sol Hotels and Accommodation Suggestions
- LUXURY VILLAS – Escarpa – The Madeira Hideaway – Check out photos and availability
- BOUTIQUE – Estalagem da Ponta do Sol – in a renovated farmhouse and perched on a cliff – check out photos and availability
- APARTMENT – Apartment Villa Sol II – in Ponta do Sol with Panoramic views – check out photos and availability
- RENTAL – Vila Mar Apartment, large with a nice view of the town – check out pictures and availability
- UNIQUE – 1905 Zino’s Palace, Pink hotel overlooking Ponta do Sol – check out pictures and availability
- or see best rated accommodations
Area 7 – Ribeira Brava
About Ribeira Brava
Ribeira is a charming town with a really practical location in the middle of the South Coast. It is great to visit the South, and it is also well located to cut to the North shore to Sao Vicente.
The town has a relaxing vibe with pebble beach, beautiful church and plantations all around.
Parking is paid but easier than in other places.
Why stay in Ribeira Brava – Analysis
- LOCATION –
South Coast, West of Funchal – 25min drive - BUSYNESS –
Not as busy as other places on the South Coast. - BEACHES –
Pebble beach with a little bit of sand/gravel - FACILITIES & SHOPS –
Nice old center (flat walking) with restaurants and shops - NEARBY ATTRACTIONS and ACTIVITIES –
At Ribeira Brava you can discover the beach, the beautiful church, the tower remaining from the fortification…
And close to town, you can also enjoy:
– Ponta do Sol, the colorful town and its photogenic old bridge
– Sao Vicente and the Lava caves
– Jardim do Mar, a charming village with narrow streets
– Rabaçal and its hikes, especially the 25 Fontes levada walk that leads to a waterfall (the most famous levada walk on the island)
Ribeira Brava Hotels and Accommodation Suggestions
- BOUTIQUE – Sonho do Oceano, overlooking Ribeira Brava – Check out photos and availability
- BOUTIQUE – Dazkarizeh73 – for an exotic ambiance in Ribeira Brava – check out photos and availability
- LOFT – Loft Paços da Vila, in the center – Check out photos and availability
- APARTMENT – Holiday Apartment Ocean View, modern with amazing terrace – check out pictures and availability
- or see best rated accommodations
Area 8 – Porto da Cruz
About Porto da Cruz
Porto da Cruz is for those who love quiet with the sound of waves crashing on the rock.
The little village on the North Shore is very scenic, niched between cliffs and valleys. It is close to the famous mount Penha de Aguia.
It is a fantastic location if you plan on doing the most famous hiking trails on the East side of the island: Pico do Arieiro, Pico Ruivo, Caldeirao Verde, Ponta de Sao Louranço…
I think this is one of the best villages to stay in Madeira, at least my favorite.
Why stay in Porto da Cruz – Analysis
- LOCATION –
North East Coast, 40min drive from Funchal - BUSYNESS –
Relatively quiet. Not many accommodations. - BEACHES –
2 pebble beaches on each side of cape - FACILITIES & SHOPS –
Not many shops. Few restaurants. - NEARBY ATTRACTIONS and ACTIVITIES –
At the village itself you can enjoy the views of Penha de Aguia, the seawater pool, the stunning cliff views, the old sugar cane factory.
In the area, you have easy access to:
– Ponta de Sao Louranço and its volcanic cliffs
– Pico do Arieiro
– Achada da Teixeira and the hike to Pico Ruivo (highest summit on the island)
– Parque Florestal das Queimadas and the Caldeirao Verde levada walk
– Santana and its traditional houses
– Rocha do Navio and its cable car (my favorite cable car on the island – see the list) - See more pictures of Porto da Cruz
Porto da Cruz Hotels and Accommodation Suggestions
There are 2 hotels right by the seafront. From the rooms you can enjoy the noise of the waves crashing on the pebbles. I tried both and had a good time in both.
- HOTEL – Costa Linda – Check out photos and availability
- HOTEL – Vila Bela – Check out photos and availability
- RENTAL HOUSE – Modern and close to the water – Check out photos and availability
- GUESTHOUSE – Madeira Surf Camp with shared kitchen – check out pictures and availability
- HOSTEL – Jaca Hostel in Porto da Cruz, close to the beach – check out photos and availability
- or see best rated accommodations
Area 9 – Jardim do Mar
About Jardim do Mar
Jardim do Mar is another village with a lot of charm.
It is not the easiest to explore but it has a lot of character with all the narrow streets going down to the sea front with beautiful greenery.
Why stay in Jardim do Mar – Analysis
- LOCATION –
West of South Coast, 1h drive from Funchal - BUSYNESS –
Relatively quiet – although if you want even quieter, you can go to the next village – Paul do Mar - BEACHES –
This is not the ideal place to sunbath and swim, but it is a good place to surf. - FACILITIES & SHOPS –
Few restaurants. - NEARBY ATTRACTIONS and ACTIVITIES –
You can explore the village itself with all the streets, the church and the seafront promenade.
And in the area you can also enjoy:
– Ponta do Sol, the colorful town and its photogenic old bridge
– Rabaçal and its hikes, especially the 25 Fontes levada walk that leads to a waterfall (the most famous levada walk on the island)
– Calheta beach
Jardim do Mar Hotels and Accommodation Suggestions
Here you will find mostly rentals. Know that if you are staying in the old village, streets and narrow (pedestrian only) with stairs and slopes.
- LUXURY VILLA – Villa Flora – Nature & Tranquility, for a peaceful stay (higher above Jardim do Mar) – Check out photos and availability
- APARTMENTS – Contemporary Studios with Pool and Oceanside View, in the old center – Check out photos and availability
- APARTMENTS – Jardim do Mar Apartments, in the old center – Check out photos and availability
- RENTAL HOUSE – CASA DO MAR, in the old center – check out pictures and availability
- or see best rated accommodations
Area 10 – Porto Moniz
About Porto Moniz
Porto Moniz is a popular destination during the day, many people visit during the day.
I recommend spending one night here, to be able to enjoy the natural pools once the day trippers have left to drive back to Funchal or other places.
This is my favorite place to swim on Madeira island.
Why stay in Porto Moniz – Analysis
- LOCATION –
West of North Coast, 55min drive from Funchal - BUSYNESS –
Busy during the day, quiet in the morning and evening - BEACHES –
No real beach, but the black sand beach of Seixal is only 10min drive awayHowever you have 2 areas with natural pools – one where rocks have been smoothed and lifeguards are on duty and another one more natural - FACILITIES & SHOPS –
Many restaurants and shops - NEARBY ATTRACTIONS and ACTIVITIES –
Enjoy the town itself with the natural pools, the fort, the aquarium and the vineyards.
In the area, you have easy access to:
– Achadas da Cruz and its impressively steep cable car
– The sea stacks of Ribeira da Janela
– The black beach and natural pools of Seixal
– Sao Vicente and the lava Cave
– The Fanal Forest and its ancient trees
See my article about the things to do in Porto Moniz.
Porto Moniz Hotels and Accommodation Suggestions
- 4 STAR HOTEL – Aqua Natura Madeira, right by some of the natural pools – Check out photos and availability
- LARGE VILLA – Porto Moniz Villa, close to the waterfront – Check out photos and availability
- RENTAL HOUSE – Refúgio do Ilhéu, on higher grounds – Check out photos and availability
- APARTMENT – Sea View Apartment, with large terrace – Check out pictures and availability
- or see best rated accommodations
4 Other well ranked areas to spend your holidays in Madeira
Caniço
- LOCATION –
South of West Coast, 20min drive from Funchal - WHY STAY THERE –
Caniço is often chosen because it is closed to Funchal but offers cheaper accommodations. - BEACHES –
You are close to Praia dos Reis Magos – not a large beach but with a protected swimming area and beautiful lava cliffs - ACCOMMODATIONS –
Check out the best rated accommodations in Caniço
Caniçal
- LOCATION –
North of West Coast, 35min drive from Funchal - WHY STAY THERE –
Caniçal is a quiet village with a lot of charm and famous for its closeness with Ponta de Sao Louranço the volcanic tail of Madeira. - BEACHES –
Pebble beaches - ACCOMMODATIONS –
Check out the best rated accommodations in Caniçal
Sao Vicente
- LOCATION –
Middle of North Coast, 40min drive from Funchal - WHY STAY THERE –
Beautiful valley with lots of greenery. Sao Vicente is home to lava caves, waterfalls, old mine… It is central on the North shore - BEACHES –
Pebble beach, but close to the black sand beach of Seixal - ACCOMMODATIONS –
Check out the best rated accommodations in Sao Vicente
Santa Cruz
- LOCATION –
Middle of East Coast, 25 min drive from Funchal, near the airport - WHY STAY THERE –
Often recommended for family with kids, it you want to spend a lot of time at the aquapark - BEACHES –
Pebble beach - ACCOMMODATIONS –
Check out the best rated accommodations in Santa Cruz
Off the beaten accommodations in Madeira (and original ones)
If you are looking for something a little different to spend one night or more, here are 3 suggestions:
#1 – Eira do Serrado
Eira do Serrado is the famous viewpoint overlooking Curral das Freiras, also known as the Valley of the Nuns.
Here, the mountains drop almost vertically in a crater-like area.
The village established in the valley below is famous for its chestnut.
At the viewpoint is a hotel, where rooms offer you magnificent views.
Check out more photos and availability
#2 – Cave in Calhau da Lapa
If you are looking for a unique experience, Calhau da Lapa is a hidden gem accessible by walking down 700 stairs orby boat.
At the bottom, fishermen own cave houses.
Check out more photos and availability
#3 – Glamping with amazing views
The combination of glamping in a luxury tent and magnificent views of cliffs and the sea, is not a combination you can find anywhere.
Sorry, I don’t have pictures, but do check them out:
Check out photos and availability
Add a few days in Porto Santo – where to stay
I think you need at least 10 days to see the entire island of Madeira from mountains to lava rocks and beaches.
But if you have a few more days, why not consider heading to Porto Santo, the other inhabited island of the archipelago.
You can do a day trip with the ferry to Porto Santo in the morning and the return in the evening (2h30 in each direction) – the island is small – check out a complete day trip option from Funchal
Or you can plan 3 days to go relax and explore:
- the 9km (5.6mi) long sandy beach
- the giant organ pipes formations
- the mini desert with sand dunes
- the many scenic viewpoints
- …
Note that I also listed the best things to do in my eBook about Madeira.
Porto Santo Hotels and Accommodation Suggestions
- GUESTHOUSE – Sotavento Guest House, right in the main town Vila Baleira – Check out photos and availability
- GUESTHOUSE – Theresia’s Beach house, close to the beach – Check out photos and availability
- RENTAL HOUSE- Retiro Praia, colorful and close to the beach – Check out photos and availability
- APARTMENT- Paradise Beach with pool and beach – Check out photos and availability
- 4 STAR RESORT- Hotel Porto Santo & Spa – Check out photos and availability
Want to see more of the best Madeira offers?
- 42 Madeira travel tips to plan an unforgettable trip – read article
- The best landscapes in Madeira in 40 pictures – read article
- The 7 cables cars in Madeira and their amazing views – read article
- Tips to rent a car and drive around Madeira – read article
- The 18 best beaches in Madeira – read article
Planning a trip to Madeira?
Check out my travel guide to help you plan:
Plan your dream trip in Madeira thanks to my guide
- 7 maps to easily plan your itinerary
- 120+ pre-selected locations
- GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
- Tips to make the most of your time
- 260+ original photos to help you choose
And keep track of your own trip!
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Dolphin and Whale watching in Madeira
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