Madeira: the floating garden

Blessed by a climate that is almost perfect all year round, Madeira is a haven for pure relaxation. Enjoy the beauty of the ‘Floating Garden of the Atlantic’ and bask in the warm welcome that the island folk always extend to the British!

Caressed by the warm waters of the Gulf Stream, some 400 miles off the north west coast of Africa, lies the beautiful sub-tropical paradise island of Madeira. Known as the ‘Floating Garden of the Atlantic’ because of its abundance of flora and fauna, you cannot fail to be impressed by the sight of wisteria, bird of paradise flowers, wild orchids, flamingo flowers, paw paws and passion fruit.

During your time in Madeira, you’re sure to want to visit its capital, Funchal, where vegetable, flower and fish markets are held daily. Time must also be taken to explore the various wine lodges where you can sample some of the wares. Indulge in a spot of souvenir shopping and treat yourself to some of Madeira’s renowned basketware, embroidery, tapestry and even some Portuguese filigree jewellery.

Holiday highlights

• Visiting the stunning Botanical Gardens in Funchal
• Experiencing the world-famous Madeiran toboggan ride
• Walking Madeira’s ancient aqueducts, know as levadas

Hotel accommodation
We offer a choice of hotel accommodation in Madeira and have carefully selected a range of hotels to suit your individual preference. Our holiday price includes seven nights’ accommodation in twin/double bedded rooms with en suite facilities in the 3 * Dom Pedro Garajau hotel. There is also the chance to upgrade to the 4 * Pestana Bay or 5 * Pestana Casino Park. Whichever hotel you choose, a full Madeiran buffet breakfast is included and a three-course evening meal package can be pre-booked for a supplement.

3 * Dom Pedro Garajau
The Dom Pedro Garajau is situated approximately 6 miles from Funchal, in the resort of Garajau. The nearby village of Canico is only 1.5 miles away offering a number of restaurants, bars, shops and supermarkets. There is also a regular public bus service into Funchal, which takes approximately 20 minutes.

The hotel itself is made up of a number of room blocks, surrounded by sub tropical gardens. Leisure facilities include a heated indoor swimming pool and outdoor pool with sun beds, as well as a sun terrace, games room, TV lounge, cocktail bar with piano music most nights, restaurant, darts and bingo. All rooms have a private balcony or terrace, private bathroom, telephone and some have a sea view.

Rooms are in blocks and steps may need to be negotiated to access your room.

4 * Pestana Bay
This hotel is situated in a bay at Praia Formosa, 3 miles from the centre of Funchal and located directly alongside the Atlantic ocean with a cliff at the back providing protection and tranquillity. The hotel’s location will enable you to explore the heart of Funchal by using the shuttle bus service.

High levels of comfort and service mean that you can enjoy a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere and the hotel’s range of facilities cater for all individual preferences. These include a freshwater swimming pool with separate jacuzzi and children’s pool, sun terraces, games room, sauna, solarium (charge), massage room, pool bar, bars and restaurant.

Rooms at the hotel are in a studio format and include a kitchenette, private balcony with sea view, private bathroom with bath and shower, radio, satellite TV, telephone and safety deposit box (for rental).

5 * Pestana Casino Park
Set in its own beautiful gardens, just a few minutes walk from the centre of Funchal, the Casino Park boasts an unrivalled position with uninterrupted views across the sea and mountains.

Located adjacent to the main restaurant and coffee shop is a huge heated swimming pool surrounded by sub-tropical trees, flowers and plants. The weekly entertainment programme includes candlelit dinners and other themed parties with floor shows which are free of charge for those guests staying on a half board basis. Other hotel facilities include a sun terrace, health centre, gym, saunas, games room, tennis courts, lounge bar, cocktail bar and ladies & gents hairdressers.

All of the spacious bedrooms have air conditioning, a private bathroom with separate WC, a large balcony, satellite TV, radio and telephone. Rooms with a partial sea view are available for a supplement.

Optional Excursions

Island tour
A fascinating full day tour of Madeira.

Monte Palace Gardens & toboggan ride
Combine a visit to these exotic gardens, with a Toboggan Ride in a traditional wicker basket.

Levada Walk & Camacha
Savour spectacular scenery and clean, fresh Atlantic air as you enjoy a guided walk along the levadas.

Espetada evening
A delicious meal, served with a glass of Madeiran wine.

Introduction To Funchal & The ‘Nun’s Valley’
Get your bearings in Funchal and enjoy spectacular views of ‘Nun’s Valley’.

These and other excursions are operated locally and are only bookable at the hotel.

This holiday is not available to book on-line. To make a booking or request a brochure, please call 0870 770 4046

Tour Code MAD