Quinta do Furao

Quinta Do Furao is set within a sprawling five-acre estate packed with organic vine and vegetable gardens. The lush green landscape is colored with native island flowers and fruit trees, and the clifftop setting offers jaw-dropping views of the coastline and the natural reserve of Rocha do Navio. The building has a traditional colorful facade, while interiors are rustic, but handsome. That impression starts in the homey wood-paneled lobby with ceramic-tile floors and natural tones, furnished with elegant wooden furniture and antique candelabras. It has an away-from-it-all atmosphere and relaxed vibe, with many guests gathering around the pool in the daytime or exploring the gardens. The clifftop restaurant has a sophisticated vibe, with outdoor seating and unforgettable views, making it a romantic spot for an evening meal. The property is geared toward tourists, with many walkers staying here for its close proximity to levadas and nature trails.

The hotel is located around a mile away from Santana, a small and picturesque town that's known for its colorful thatched houses. It's close to a few levadas and the Pico Ruivo, making it the location ideal for nature lovers and walkers. Rocha do Navio, the cable car that passes in the natural reserve of Madeira, is also within walking distance. Madeira Theme Park is a two-minute walk away, and there are good opportunities for swimming in the sea near Faial. Local amenities are limited, but shops, supermarkets, banks, ATMs, and restaurants can be found in Machicho, which is about a 30-minute drive away. The easiest way to get around the island is by car, so it's advisable for travelers to hire one if they intend to explore. The historic capital of Funchal is a 45-minute drive away, while Madeira Airport is a 30-minute drive.

With only 45 rooms, this boutique hotel has a cozy and personalized feel. All rooms are spacious and traditionally decorated with subtle tones and polished wooden floors -- most have sloping roofs and antique wooden furniture. Bright windows look out to lovely sea or mountain views, but travelers should remember when booking that not all rooms have balconies. Suites add extra living space (some have fireplaces), while two-bedroom villas add kitchenettes. Standard in-room amenities include free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, minibars, electric kettles, safes, phones, and free bottled water. Tiled bathrooms are roomy and clean, equipped with shower/tub combos (though a couple of rooms are shower-only), bidets, hairdryers, robes, and free premium toiletries. 

The highly-rated Quinta Do Furao Restaurant has a unique location on the edge of some cliffs, offering dramatic views of the coastline. It's traditionally decorated and has an outdoor terrace for alfresco dining, serving gourmet Madeiran and international dishes using local organic produce from the gardens. There's an excellent free breakfast buffet with cooked-to-order eggs, and room service is available within limited hours. Guests can grab a drink at the lobby bar and traditional pub, or sample some wine from the hotel's own cellar.

Facilities geared toward relaxation include a small swimming pool with sun loungers, which has a retractable roof for seasonal use. There's a tranquil spa with a hot tub, sauna, and massage services, plus a (tiny) fitness center with a few cardio machines. The game room has a billiard table and ping-pong, and there are lots of organized activities during the week, like visits to the hotel garden, wine tastings in the cellar, and Poncha (a traditional Madeiran drink) workshops. Family-friendly facilities include a kids' playground and a reading room. Other services include a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, tour assistance, and laundry. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel, and there's no charge for self parking.