THE PRACTICAL STUFF...
Where is the Nearest Airport?
Funchal Airport is around 50km, or 45 mins from our cottages. The
airport is served by many airlines and tour operators. Where a direct
flight is not available the best hub is Lisbon because of the many daily
connections. Please click here for a full list of the airlines.
How Easy is it to Get Around?
The best way is to hire a car. I have a good relationship with
Funchal Car Hire. Alternatively there is a local taxi service that
we frequently use, who will do supermarket and restaurant
trips for €10-€15 return, and island tours for €120. So car hire
is certainly cheaper unless you want to lie by the pool all day!
What’s the Weather Like?
The thing that strikes most or my guests are the microclimates
on Madeira. To help, I always provide guests this link to the
webcams around the island to check before you go! All this
said, the weather is fantastic year-round, yes even winter!
Click this link for a very good analysis of the weather.
How Far Does My Money Go?
The island is cheaper than the mainland, and the country areas cheaper than
in Funchal. A lunchtime plate of the day is a big thing here and ranges between
€5-€7. Dinner ranges from €15 per head excluding drinks, up to €50 per head
including drinks (eg The Vine Hotel). Coffee is €1. A really drinkable bottle of
wine €3-€5 (buying direct, not on a menu!). G&T will cost on average €5.
Where Can I Shop for Groceries, etc?
PINGO DOCE or CONTINENTE are the 2 major supermarket chains with one
(Pingo) 5 minutes away from the cottages. Added to that every little village is
peppered with mini markets. There is one within walking distance which also
has a coffee bar/bar/small restaurant attached to it - our daily spot for coffee
and they make a mean goat stew on a Tuesday :)
Other Useful Practical Tips?
If you plan to go walking on the levadas you should pack a light shower
jacket, water bottle, and a small torch (some levada trails involve walking
through tunnels). GPS units don’t always work on the island so maps are
essential for driving and walking. Good ones are available everywhere
on the island but I provide as many as possible for my guests.