A rustic retreat in the real Madeira
Review Submitted: June 25, 2011
Date of Stay: June 2011
I was a little concerned about booking a holiday directly with the owner, but it worked out really well and we even met Jane while we were there as she was having a break herself. Peter, her rep in Madeira, met us and led us to Garden Cottage, which is in amongst local houses and small farms - a bit of a walk from the car down a concrete sloping path and steps. He showed us the cottage and had provided some basic food and drink items, so we could have had a snack or a small meal if needed. He also told us a bit about the locality and local events and was helpful with our queries.
I would describe the cottage as having rustic charm. There was plenty of space for two with an open plan kitchen, diner and lounge plus shower room downstairs and a large bedroom upstairs. Comfy twin beds (and I have a weak back).
We enjoyed opening the bedroom shutters in the morning and looking out over the sea in the distance while we planned our day.
The garden was lovely with space to lie by the plunge pool or eat near the house. We used the BBQ successfully too.
It was in a good location for walking and we found many routes, some easy, some strenuous within a reasonable distance. We didn't find many restaurants within walking distance, but Arco does have a few shops. We used the small supermarket in Calheta mostly which was a 5 - 10 minute drive away. If you prefer to eat out or want a night-life it may not be the best location, unless you don't mind driving, but we ate in mostly as the terrace was very pleasant to sit on with nice views over the local houses and down to the sea. Calheta has more bars and restaurants and there were several recommendations in the visitors' book of other places to eat not too far away by car. You definitely need a hire car unless you wish to be a complete hermit.
There is a washing machine in the garden out-house, which proved very useful. We didn't watch much TV, but often could only get BBC news and Sky news. The other channels were intermittent. There is a small library of English books.
In June the temperature was a steady 22 degrees, bit cooler at night. We only had rain once and briefly. The mountains can mist over in the afternoons, but it was always possible to find somewhere sunny.
We loved Madeira for its scenery, walks and flowers. The locals were friendly and many people speak English.
We would definitley recommend Garden Cottage and could have easily stayed another week. We hope to return sometime soon.
Recommended for:
Age 55+,
Adventure Seekers,
Girls Getaway,
Sightseeing,
Romantic Getaway
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Helpful votes: 3/3
