What You Need To Know
Population and Culture
At the World Travel Awards 2023, Madeira was voted the best European island travel destination for the ninth consecutive year.
It is a self-governing province of Portugal, in the Atlantic Ocean. It is approximately 3 and a half hours flight from the UK.
In the 1970's many Madeirans emigrated to The Channel Islands, South Africa or South America to work. Many have also worked in the UK. English is taught from prmary school level. Consequently, English is very widely spoken. In the main tourist destinations, German and Spanish may also be spoken.
The population of approx 250,000 people is mainly Roman Catholic. Half of the people live in Funchal, and the remainder are spread out over the island. It is a very safe place to live and visit and crime is very low. Overseas visitors are welcomed, and the Government proactively encourages the settlement here of European retirees. There is a large expatriate community on the island.
Climate
Madeira enjoys a warm and sunny climate, with temperatures ranging between 15c - 40c. The temperature will vary depending on the elevation. The peaks at the top of the island, up to 6100 feet high, will be much cooler than at sea level. Even in December, sitting outside on our Balcony, the temperature can be in the high twenties. I get a tan every Xmas !!
Most of the time, tee shirt and shorts is quite sufficient. Winter evenings, a light jacket may be required.
If the weather is cloudy, the clouds rarely cover the whole island, because of its height. If the cloud level is low, it is possible to drive up through the cloud to the plateau and be in beautiful sunshine and clear blue skies. This can add some flexibility to your plans for the day.
English visitors will find it comparable to a very nice English summers day, almost every day!
Food
There is a wide variety of food available, especially in Funchal. Local dishes will be found in all the small local restaurants over the island. Fish or Beef dishes being the most common. Dining out is much cheaper than Northern Europe, and most visitors will take the opportunity to eat out on a regular basis. Supermarkets will normally stock most of what you will require. The large ones will also stock items such as Soya Milk, and Gluten free products.
Driving
For UK visitors, the Madeirans drive on the opposite side of the road. ie on the right. Car hire is easy. We recommend smaller cars with good engines, eg 1500cc. easier to park and explore, but still be able to get up the hills.
The Via Rapide is a very recent construction on the island and is a new road, mostly dual carriageway, that connects East to West, and the furthest corners of the island also. There are many very impressive tunnels that have been constructed, to carry this road through the hillsides. Tip - if the map gives you the option of Via Rapide or a cross-country route, the VR will be four times quicker, and much safer.
Traffic is not heavy, and most visitors will find driving quite easy compared to their home towns and cities.
Water
The water in the taps is safe to drink. Or bottled water is widely available in any Supermarket.
Medical
The main hospital is in Funchal, but there is another smaller one in Lombo do Estrela, a district of Calheta, which is much closer. Should you need medical assistance, the Estrela hospital is open 24 hours. Just take your Passport and copy of your medical insurance with you. Pharmacies are also widely available.
COVID
Owner's Update
Covid is now regarded as a "normal" occurrence. However, we will offer a 100% refund to any Guest whose travel plans are interrupted due to government "prohibition of travel".
Travel Insurance that does protect your holiday including interruption due to Covid19 IS widely available online for a modest price.
The Madeiran government website Madeira Safe offers general travel advice.
Travellers should assume that a Covid passport is required.
General Information
- Panoramic Sea Views
- Private Pool heated all year. Inc in Tariff
- Free WIFI access and Air con in all rooms
- |Free Linen, Towels, Utilities and Cleaning included
- Free Parking
- Local English speaking Property Manager
- 5 minutes to start the Levada Nova Calheta Walk