What to do in Madeira?

[mcbook]

I've just booked a week (mid-April) in Madeira for me and the Mrs to get away for a bit of sun before our baby arrives in July.

I got a good deal on flights so it was a bit of a spur of the moment booking. Does anyone have any good recommendations on cool places to see or things to do whilst there? Restaurant recommendations would also be appreciated. We'll be staying at a hotel in Funchal.

Cheers

[anonymous-user]

Rent a car, the views from the top of the mountains are amazing as is the coastline. The roads you will travel to get there are great, switchbacks and tunnels by the hundred with spectacular scenery everywhere.

[rich1231]

mcbook said:

I've just booked a week (mid-April) in Madeira for me and the Mrs to get away for a bit of sun before our baby arrives in July.

I got a good deal on flights so it was a bit of a spur of the moment booking. Does anyone have any good recommendations on cool places to see or things to do whilst there? Restaurant recommendations would also be appreciated. We'll be staying at a hotel in Funchal.

Cheers

Loads of great places to eat.

Reids Palace, Villa something is the name of the restaurant, dress code and formal but food is great and location good.

I stayed at Chopana Hills erm up in the hills and the restaurant there was really good. There is an Italian near Reids Palace which was really impressive.

[anonymous-user]

Yes, the Italian at Reid's Palace is very good - Villa Cipriani. Toko's is also very good for fish, small so you need to book. The owner is slightly bonkers but good fun. Don't use your mobile.........

During the day, maybe get a bus trip round the island or hire a car and drive into the hills and walk some of the levadas that bring the rain water to the reservoirs. There is a great walk out on the peninsular near the airport. None of the walks are difficult, some great views.

And go prepared. It can be low 20s on the coast and 8/9degrees up in the hills! temperature falls quickly and it can be sunny on the coast and raining higher up. Or vice versa.

The botanical gardens are OK too, at the top,of the cable car. Wouldn't bother with the sled ride down.

[mcbook]

Thanks guys. The main aim of the holiday is relaxation so car hire and some gentle walks will be just the ticket.

[Vaud]

Beef and Wines (ignore the name) is pretty good in Funchal. Very, very good beef...

[Amateurish]

Drive to Rabacal (amazing views) there's a car park at the top, and some amazing levada walks e.g. 25 fontes / risco. No need for a guide.