We had a lovely time at villa sunrise and the host was extremely friendly and helpful. However, we did have a few issues that put a slight dampener on our holiday, but the issues were raised and dealt with very quickly (where possible) by the host.
First issue was not the host's fault, but the previous guests checked out late and left the villa in a terrible state. We arrived early and were aware we couldn't check in until 4pm, but the cleaners didn't leave until 7pm and we had to hang around outside, unable to unpack or settle in until they'd gone. I know this isn't their fault, but it meant a really bad start to the holiday.
Other issues were with ants and cockroaches - normal for the location but we had to ask for steps to be taken to reduce numbers in the property.
The drawers and wardrobes all smelt horribly of damp, but the hosts arranged for some of them to have sachets of silica gel to combat the smell.
The plug in the spa bath didn't hold water, on reporting this, the plug was removed entirely and wasn't replaced until the last day of our holiday.
The lock in the front bedroom exterior door did not lock - on reporting it, it was 'fixed' by completely breaking the mechanism. Admittedly, it locked, but it was a bit like assembling a jigsaw at night to lock it up.
Be aware that most of Madeira appears to be on a 45 degree slope and there are no pavements. If you want to walk anywhere from the villa, be ready for your thighs to complain for the rest of your stay. I wouldn't advise leaving the villa unless you're driving or being driven. There is very little within walking distance. You can get to a shop, but I wouldn't advise it.
We are a family of aviation fans, but if you don't like planes, don't stay here. We knew how close it was to the airport, and even I was surprised that we could basically wave at the pilot as they came in to land. We really enjoyed that, but I appreciate that not everyone does. They were quite loud, but only came every half an hour or so, so it wasn't constant. And if it's windy, they can't come in to land at all!
Finally, if you like a firm bed then you're in for a treat. The first day I lay on the bed I thought it was made of concrete. All the beds were just as hard, not in a good way.
And the neighbour's dog barks a fair amount. Nothing to be done about it, but worth noting.
Would definitely return if they made the beds softer and gave the whole place some tlc.
