Quinta da Casa Branca

The boutique Quinta da Casa Branca is built on what were once Madeira vineyards. The modern Quinta building is the main one, with a lovely reception area of wood and white textiles and floor-to-ceiling glass walls that integrate the building with the lush gardens outside. Designed by an architect from Madeira, the broad panes of glass immerse guests in the surrounding landscape complete with plants from rubber trees and breadfruit to olive trees and flora. The other two buildings are historical: There's the 19th-century villa-turned-bar that was once the home of the family that currently owns the hotel -- former wine merchants -- and the classically formal Manor House hosts the property's most sumptuous suites. The tropical gardens, as well as the residential setting, create a quiet atmosphere and feeling of seclusion that attracts mostly couples. 

Located off a main road, the Quinta da Casa Branca is set back from the larger Estrada Monumental and its tourist crowds. Still, there are ample restaurants and bars within a five-minute walk, and the Lido Promenade is about a 15-minute walk away. Be aware, however, that Funchal is a very hilly town with lots of steep inclines that may be strenuous for some. Though there's no free shuttle around town, cabs are inexpensive and plentiful. Additionally, a local bus stop directly across the road from the property and takes guests into Funchal's old town -- or it's a quick 10-minute cab ride away. Madeira Airport is 20 minutes away by car.

Though comfortable, rooms in the modern Quinta building are a bit small and are beginning to look a bit dated. Garden rooms have wood paneling and matching furniture, purple accent walls and bed runners, floral-patterned armchairs, and wood floors. Note that beds are two twins pushed together. Bathrooms are much fresher with mosaic tiling, shower/tub combos, and high-end toiletries. Premium Rooms and Deluxe Suites surprisingly look more old-fashioned, with mismatched bedspreads and seating upholstery. These rooms have attractive marble bathrooms, and the suites' are particularly large with jetted tubs. All have furnished balconies or patios, with cushioned loungers and garden views.

The Manor House suites play up the traditional architecture of the beautiful old building with classical styling, though some individually decorated rooms add modern accents. Rooms across the property have tea- and coffee-making facilities, minibars, free safes, CD players (in all but garden rooms), and flat-screen cable TVs with DVD players. All suites have Nespresso machines.

The Quinta da Casa Branca offers enough on-site for adult guests to keep occupied, though there's little for kids to do. The heated outdoor swimming pool is surrounded by plants for a feeling of seclusion, and there are ample cushioned loungers and umbrellas available. The spa offers an array of treatments and a whirlpool. There's also a minimally equipped, but spacious gym. Benches and chairs are spread among the grounds for lounging. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.

The attention to design and landscape continues to carry over to the property's restaurants: The Manor House's traditional, formal room is the setting for fine dining, while guests are encouraged to take in the scenery for lunch at the al fresco poolside restaurant. All rates include a well-reviewed breakfast buffet. A nice touch is the late afternoon tea offered at the Casa de Quinta bar, with fine views of the gardens and Madeiran hills.