Madeira

No specific recommendations, but stay in Funchal. Although the bus system is very good, going to and from Funchal eats into your precious vacation time.

Thank you

If you like “different” accommodations try glamping in Ponta do Sol at Roberto’s glamping site. I stayed in a tipi (he has 2 & are listed on Airbnb) perched high on a cliff on a reclaimed banana plantation, overlooking the sea. Spectacular!

We stayed in Madeira last March (2023) and LOVED it. Our hotel, The Cliff Bay (https://www.portobay.com/en/hotels/madeira-hotels/the-cliff-bay/) was in Funchal. We could walk in to town and it was a beautiful setting and a beautiful walk. I'd recommend taking the Funicular (https://madeiracablecar.com/en/) up to the top, explore the botanical gardens or take a hike at the top. Then take the sled ride part way down. Super fun! We also took an all day tour of the island, which we organized through the Information Center a couple days prior. Such a great way to see the whole island. We also rented a car to explore a few other parts that the tour did not take us to such as Caniçal and Santana (where the old A-Framed houses are located.)