What a fantastic calming sea view this little cottage offers! We loved waking up to the sounds of the waves crashing down below & watching the gorgeous sunset from the privacy of our patio. The location feels like we truly are on our own little island. Unless we drove out into the villages/towns, some days we wouldn't see another person. So peaceful!
Bruno met us at check-in & kindly guided us to the cottage. He showed us where things were located around the cottage which we found very helpful. We were also welcomed with several items such as bread, milk, sparkling wine, fruits which was very nice for tired travelers.
The rental has just about everything you might need (appliances). The washing machine really came in handy and we used the BBQ on Christmas day when we figured most restaurants would be closed.
We walked down the 130 steps (yes, I counted) from the private access beach hut down to the pebbled beach 3 of the 7 days we stayed there. We saw 2 people max on each of those days. The weather in Madeira was pleasant (esp compared to winter in London) but it was not sunbathing weather (plus it rained) else we would have made better use of the nice private beach hut.
The cottage was pretty clean overall but the floors were quite dusty upon arrival (we like to walk barefoot inside the house so we can fully relax). I had to sweep up the whole place first since we felt dust on our feet after we walked around inside. I did mention this to Bruno that the cleaners must have forgotten to sweep/vacuum & mop the floors, for the sake of future renters.
Like the listing says, it is a VERY steep & narrow climb down a 1-lane driveway to get to the cottage (the other side is the drop from the cliff). Although it might be a bit scary & challenging for some drivers, it wasn't too bad for us as my husband is good at navigating challenging roads. However, we did make it a point to get back to the cottage before it got dark, to be on the safe side.
Note - Pack (or buy) your toiletries (soap, shampoo/conditioner, lotion as they are not provided) and bring a pair of slippers (or flip flips) for inside the cottage as the living room has bumpy cobble stones.
Also, we used the property booking agent (Our Madeira) to help book us a car rental. The prices were fair & airport pick up /drop off was convenient so I'd recommend getting your car rental through them also.
We had a lovely & relaxing holiday. Thank you so much!