We had never been to Madeira before and booked Casa das Vinhas after much deliberation. We were not disappointed. The cottage is clean, the bed comfortable, the living accomodation is bright and the kitchen well equipped with very good cooking facilities, should you wish to cook. There is even a barbecue.
The outdoor area is very spacious and the swimming pool is more than adequate. My husband and I had the full use of the pool to ourselves, very peaceful.
We loved seeing the owners dogs, who were very friendly on occasion, and Frank and Buffy are very welcoming, helpful and discreet.
It is a short walk down a hill to turn either left into the centre of Funchal and the port area, or right to the hotel strip, the first one on the main road is Reids Hotel, where you can book for a posh tea. There is a super market down the hill too.
Turn towards the centre and you get an excellent meal at Kontiki's, steak on the stone, and a good pint at No2 Pub.
Overall, an excellent base with peace and quiet, being amongst it all. We had a fab holiday. But, like all holidays in the heat, remember to take the sprays/creams in case you are bitten.
We hope to return to this beautiful oasis, Pauline and Brian