Villa Carnation

Nestled amidst the serene natural beauty of the Serra D’Água Valley, Ribeira Brava is a charming coastal town steeped in history. Its charm is evident in the enchanting cobblestone streets and whitewashed houses overlooking the sparkling turquoise ocean, making it a contender for the title of the most beautiful town in Madeira. The shoreline, dotted with idyllic beaches, inviting cafés, and delightful restaurants, provides the perfect setting to savour local culinary delights on days when you would rather indulge in the island's delicacies than cook up a feast at Villa Carnation.

Discover a local cultural treasure by visiting the Forte de São Benta, home to a picturesque lighthouse offering stunning coastal views. The Igreja de São Bento, a local church, is a remarkable structure that safeguards precious paintings from the sixteenth century, which reflect the historical trade ties between Madeira and Europe. Stay close to home with invigorating Levada walks, which give you the opportunity to explore a network of manmade irrigation systems covering an amazing 1,350 miles. The walk from Levada Nova to Tabau promises magnificent vistas, ancient bridges, and sixteen miles of interconnected tunnels, with guided walks catering to various abilities.

Roughly forty minutes away from Ribeira Brava by car, Ponta do Parge boasts breathtakingly steep cliffs which rise dramatically from the sea and give you the sense of having reached the end of the world, with nothing but the vast ocean stretching until the Americas. Don't miss the once-in-a-lifetime sunsets from this remarkable vantage point.

A day trip to Funchal, the capital of Madeiran, is also a must. Approximately twenty-five minutes away by car, Funchal is known for its small-town Portuguese charm and picturesque waterfront, where pretty cafés and traditional restaurants beckon tourists with their distinctive local flavours. Explore the vibrant Mercado dos Lavradores for an authentic island experience, with friendly stallholders selling fresh fruits, vegetables, and fish. Visitors are always recommended to indulge in pastéis de nata, delicious Portuguese custard tarts made by local artisan bakers.

For an exhilarating experience, hop on the Funchal Cable Car and ascend high above Funchal to Monte, an area that provides spectacular panoramic views. Wander through magnificent tropical gardens, including the Botanical Garden with its gorgeous floral displays, before exploring the Natural History Museum. Conclude your adventure with a choice between a return cable car trip or a daring descent in a traditional Madeira toboggan – not for the faint of heart! Later on, make your way to the beach for a sunset swim before returning home to Villa Carnation in time for a laidback family barbecue on the terrace.

Read more about Funchal

Please be aware that the location tab shown on the website is not based on the property's exact location; therefore, all location amenities are an approx of facilities, restaurants, and villages/towns you might find around the property. The property's exact location will be provided to you before arrival and might come along with some recommendations about the area and what to visit.

THE REGION

Funchal is the largest city on the island of Madeira and is encapsulated by Pico Ruivo and its neighbouring mountains, which look as if they have been seamlessly carved into the skyline by a Lusitanian God.

There is no better spot to start your holiday than in the Old Town, which illustrates its personality though street art, architecture and busy local businesses. There are many fine eateries, botanical gardens, a cathedral and impressive museums. Perhaps hop on the Madeira Cable Car as one of your first activities, as this will give you a great idea of the islands size.

Many flock Funchal in order to enjoy the Atlantic Coastline. This is home to its prominent harbour, where hundreds of boats and yachts, some of which enable visitors to embark on a magical sea voyage, can be found. Funchal really is a destination for lovers of the sea; as there are renowned surfing points, as well as being a great place to spot some whales.

Madeirans are also notorious for their elaborate festivals. If you’re travelling during the New Year, you will be treated to one of the world’s biggest Firework Festivals…a dazzling sight! During late February & early Mrach, you are able to witness Carnival and the streets of Funchal are lit with parades and festivities. If that’s not enough for you; the Atlantic Festival International Fireworks Competition, Wine Festival and Christmas are all noteworthy dates for anyone visiting Funchal.

There are some incredible villas on the island and we believe that we have done a great job finding them for you. Have a browse and let us know what you think.

ABOUT MADEIRA

The island of Madeira can be found south west of mainland Portugal, in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Due to the island’s location, its is considered to have a Mediterranean climate that serves locals and visitors all year round – making it an ideal escape from reality at any point in the year.

What we love Madeira for is its seemingly ongoing festivals! Madeirans have found an excuse to celebrate most things; including film, their natural surroundings and key patron saints. This means that planning a visit during these days and even weeks of commemoration is well worth it (scroll down to see some key dates).

Madeira is divided into several municipals, each with a special offering to those who visit this island. Our favourite two communities are Funchal and Calheta and these are where you will find most of our beautiful villas.

Madeira’s landscape extends much more than a striking coastline. Make sure you pack some hiking boots and venture inland during your stay. With mountainous trails along Vereda do Arieiro, or more countryside appropriate paths like Levada do Risco and waterfall chasing treks like Levada do Caldeirao Verde – this archipelago has everything a keen outdoors person requires.

For those who enjoy either playing or watching sports, you’ll be happy to know Madeira offers so much selection. Madeira is also home to three notable football clubs, so if you’re visiting during the football season and want to see a good quality of football, you have every chance to. Porto Santo Golfe is the island’s renowned golf course. With an 18-hole course (Par 72) overlooking a Galapagos-like backdrop, golf enthusiasts will certainly want a ‘slice’ of the action! Surfers can access some great beaches like Jardim do Mar, Ponta Pequena, Paul do Mar, and Fajã da Ovelha in order to find some swell. Or, if you’re simply looking to recline on a sun lounger and soak up some rays, whilst listening to crystal clear waves break as they hit the shores, you will find plenty of man-made beaches & Lidos created for your leisure!

With a superb climate, close proximity to the coastline, wonderful cuisine, charming locals and astonishing scenery – this is a fabulous holiday choice for families & friends.

But while you're enjoying one of our fantastic villas in Madeira, you may well want to take some time out from all that sun worship to explore everything else the region has to offer – so we've put together this handy travel guide to give you a little help and inspiration!

Download our Madeira travel guide >>