Exclusive Holiday Destinations - Madeira, Portugal

Madeira, a Portuguese archipelago in the mid Atlantic Ocean, is one of the autonomous regions of Portugal, with Madeira Island and Porto Santo Island being the only inhabited islands. Madeira is an archipelago with volcanic origins from a Hot Spot, so is not geographically part of a specific continent, but Madeira belongs and has belonged ethnically, culturally, economically and politically to Europe for 600 years despite being closer to Africa. Madeira is part of Portugal, so it is part of the European Union, as an Outermost Region.

If you arrive by plane even the landing is spectacular. The airport is located on a mountain plateau and the runway ends in a sheer cliff. It used to be one of the most dangerous airports to land in because of the extremely short runway. After the 1977 catastrophe of TAP Portugal Flight 425, in which a 134 passengers lost their lives, the runway was extended by 200 m (650ft), which now allows even the biggest planes to land safely. Nevertheless it is still a bit of a white knuckle landing. Alternatively you could also arrive by cruise ship. For those that plan to arrive by train and the 'train spotters' amongst us, it might be a little disappointing. The nearest train station is in Agadir, Morocco.

Madeira offers some of the finest luxury hotels in Europe. Reid's Palace is without doubt it's gem. With an illustrious guest list that include Sir Winston, Churchill, George Bernhard Shaw, to the Empress Elizabeth I of Austria, that came to mourn the suicide of her son Rudolph, it is no wonder that this hotel has been famous since it's opening in 1891. Set on cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the hotel offers 6 restaurants with the finest cuisines of Europe, a luxury Spa and the vicinity of two excellent golf courses, Palhero Golf and Santo da Serra. Complimentary use of the tennis courts, fitness center, sauna, steam room, table tennis, swimming pools, deck chairs and umbrellas, and the scheduled courtesy bus service to the city center, complete this luxury experience. Rates run from single rooms 275 Euros to the Presidential Suite at 2275 Euros.

If you are looking for something a little more economic, just next door is the striking CS Madeira Atlantic Hotel, which enjoys a superb location on Funchal's coast and is privileged to have the most extensive sea front access of any hotel in Madeira. The hotel consists of striking twin minimalist buildings that blend to perfection with their surroundings. The clever and futuristic architecture makes the most of natural light to illuminate public areas, affording unparalleled views of the sea from almost all parts of the hotel. With an infinity pool, fully equipped fitness centre, sauna, Jacuzzi and Turkish bath, 4 outdoor saltwater swimming pools, one indoor pool, Squash, Badminton, Basketball, Tennis Courts, diving school and other water sports activities, boredom is not likely to set in. The attached spa, the CS Atlantic Club - Sea SPA and the 24 hour baby-sitting service, are just too good to pass by. Room rates range from 115 Euros to around 290 Euros for 2 adults per night, breakfast included.

There are many more hotels available in and around Funchal. Due to the economy most have dropped their prices considerably and 3 or 4 star lodging can now be booked as low as 25 - 30 Euros per person, most of the time this includes breakfast.

Madeira has lots to of entertainment to offer. Day trips to the Valley of the Nuns, Deep Sea Fishing, the famous Wicker Toboggan Rides and Levada Hikes and a lively night life with a Casino and an excellent choice of restaurants. More information about what to do and what to see in part 2 of this series.

Is your interest piqued yet? Trust me it is going to get even better. Madeira will become your next dream holiday, guaranteed!