Reviews of Property: Casa Rosada, spacious holiday home above Arco da Calheta in stunning countryside
Description
Villa, 180 m²,
3 Bedrooms, Sleeps 6, 2 Bathrooms, 1 Separate Toilet
3 Bedrooms, Sleeps 6, 2 Bathrooms, 1 Separate Toilet
Facilities
near the sea, rural,
garden,
terrace,
balcony,
satellite or cable
Tony Hughes-Lewis
+351 291-827770
+351 914-850454
+351 914-850454
Speaks: English
9 Reviews of Property 79073 in Calheta, Portugal
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Casa Rosada without a car
Review Submitted: August 24, 2009
Date of Stay: April 2008
Have stayed here twice - once with a car and once without a car. Great accommodation and wonderful views, but the very steep approach might be a problem for some, as with my wife.Persuaded her to go back a second time , but this time without a car as, during our first stay, we had seen a local bus come up to the nearby restaurant each day. It was only during our second visit that we discovered that it was a school bus NOT a service bus! We still had an enjoyable time but, then, we are keen walkers and the walk to the nearest service bus kept us very fit.
Owner's Response: Hello and many thanks for giving us your experience of holidaying at Casa Rosada without a car. Good on you! It will be useful for others who are fit walkers and enjoy a challenge! Sorry the school bus wasn't as you hoped but glad you sourced the local bus service.
It's worth mentioning that Casa Rosada is equally ideal for those who are not energetic and just want to chill out but it's definitely best to hire a car (we can do this for you). As described, the accommodation is great and the views just stunning!
It's worth mentioning that Casa Rosada is equally ideal for those who are not energetic and just want to chill out but it's definitely best to hire a car (we can do this for you). As described, the accommodation is great and the views just stunning!
Great holiday destination
Review Submitted: August 15, 2009
Date of Stay: May 2009
Casa Rosada was a lovelly place to base yourself for a holiday exploring Madeira. We went in May with the aim of doing some walking.
We met the managers of the property who gave us the key and told us a lot about the house and the surrounding area. They were very helpful throughout our stay. The house itself is well kept and was clean and tidy on our arrival. The kitchen was well equipped, the lounge has a TV, plenty of books and leaflets of ocal activities. The bedroooms were plently big enough and the living areas downstairs were spacious. The outdoor terrace was great, the weather was generlly pretty good whilst we were there and we made good use of the outdoor furniture provided.
The "3-wheel" entry to the drive prooved to be quite a source of enterainment but it was mastered after a few days!
There is a levada to walk along not far from the house which provides great views once you get up the hill to it! A must is the farmers market in one of the near by towns - the fresh fruits, many of which we had never seen before, were delicious. There are also plenty of little restaurants around the area to enjoy a pleasant meal in.
We met the managers of the property who gave us the key and told us a lot about the house and the surrounding area. They were very helpful throughout our stay. The house itself is well kept and was clean and tidy on our arrival. The kitchen was well equipped, the lounge has a TV, plenty of books and leaflets of ocal activities. The bedroooms were plently big enough and the living areas downstairs were spacious. The outdoor terrace was great, the weather was generlly pretty good whilst we were there and we made good use of the outdoor furniture provided.
The "3-wheel" entry to the drive prooved to be quite a source of enterainment but it was mastered after a few days!
There is a levada to walk along not far from the house which provides great views once you get up the hill to it! A must is the farmers market in one of the near by towns - the fresh fruits, many of which we had never seen before, were delicious. There are also plenty of little restaurants around the area to enjoy a pleasant meal in.
Owner's Response: Many thanks "Walking Boots" - love your choice of nickname! Your comments will be encouraging for anyone, especially those who love walking. In the house you'll find guidance notes that we've put together on some of our favourite walks and if you want to prepare ahead, a good publication to buy is the paperback on Madeira available as part of the Sunflower Landscapes series. And yes, proper walking boots, a hat and suitable clothing are recommended at all times of year (several thin layers including a light-weight waterproof outer layer is best). If you're walking at 1,800 metres (6,000 ft approx), or even a lot lower, it can be surprisingly chilly and sometimes wet. Having said this, the sun can be hot so bring a rucksack to house a bottle of water and the layers as you peel them off!
We stayed at this property over the New Year 08/09
Review Submitted: August 13, 2009
Date of Stay: December 2008
The property itself is well equiped and has plenty of space. Our double room had the best view, facing over the hillside and towards the sea. It was fun watching the paragliders come almost overhead.
The outside space and terrace were pleasant - however the weather wasn't particularly warm and sunny, although when the sun was shining it was very relaxing to sit outside and watch the sun go down.
On our arrival we were met and given our keys. At this point all we needed to know, was explained very well.
You need to be an extremely confident driver to reach the property, as the hill is very steep. But you do get used to it and it appears that generally driving on Maderia is a bit of a challenge on some roads.
As we were staying over the New Year, one of the main attractions was wanting to see the fireworks in Funchal on New Years Eve. Judith arranged this with the local hotel - we had an a Gala Meal and then were transported to Funchal. The food was extremely good for a buffet/self service and there was some entertainment. We quickly changed out of our party wear and left about 10.30 from what I can remember. Our coach took as and the other passengers to Funchal, we arrived about 11.15 and were taken to a sports stadium on the side of Funchal bay. Fizzy wine and other bits were given out. We were really just waiting for the fireworks, along with the hundreds of tourists and locals. They did not disappoint, exploding altogether around the bay, very loud but really impressive. We arrived back at the property about 1.30. The cost was not cheap but the whole eveinng was worth it.
The scenery and sea around Maderia is beautiful and it is essential to have your own car. Watching the sunsets from the coast were particularly enjoyable.We didn't find that many decent places to eat the food served is pretty much the same everywhere, although it wasn't bad by any means. The meat skewered on a herb twigg - was very nice and a local dish.
One thing that we did find with the property was it was very quiet most of the time. But on occasions at night we had some dogs who seemed to deliberately want to bark outside our bedroom window. Just need to shout out the window and shoo them away.
Overall I would recommend this property for anyone who wants to get away for some quiet time but have the luxury of fabulous views and a well equipped place to stay.
The outside space and terrace were pleasant - however the weather wasn't particularly warm and sunny, although when the sun was shining it was very relaxing to sit outside and watch the sun go down.
On our arrival we were met and given our keys. At this point all we needed to know, was explained very well.
You need to be an extremely confident driver to reach the property, as the hill is very steep. But you do get used to it and it appears that generally driving on Maderia is a bit of a challenge on some roads.
As we were staying over the New Year, one of the main attractions was wanting to see the fireworks in Funchal on New Years Eve. Judith arranged this with the local hotel - we had an a Gala Meal and then were transported to Funchal. The food was extremely good for a buffet/self service and there was some entertainment. We quickly changed out of our party wear and left about 10.30 from what I can remember. Our coach took as and the other passengers to Funchal, we arrived about 11.15 and were taken to a sports stadium on the side of Funchal bay. Fizzy wine and other bits were given out. We were really just waiting for the fireworks, along with the hundreds of tourists and locals. They did not disappoint, exploding altogether around the bay, very loud but really impressive. We arrived back at the property about 1.30. The cost was not cheap but the whole eveinng was worth it.
The scenery and sea around Maderia is beautiful and it is essential to have your own car. Watching the sunsets from the coast were particularly enjoyable.We didn't find that many decent places to eat the food served is pretty much the same everywhere, although it wasn't bad by any means. The meat skewered on a herb twigg - was very nice and a local dish.
One thing that we did find with the property was it was very quiet most of the time. But on occasions at night we had some dogs who seemed to deliberately want to bark outside our bedroom window. Just need to shout out the window and shoo them away.
Overall I would recommend this property for anyone who wants to get away for some quiet time but have the luxury of fabulous views and a well equipped place to stay.
Owner's Response: Thanks for a very comprehensive review! We particularly appreciate your comments about the arrangements made for New Year's Eve which included the 30 minute return trip into Funchal to watch the internationally famous midnight fireworks display. Absolute magic!
Future guests thinking of holidaying here during the month of June may be interested to know that on four Saturday evenings during that month a fireworks display is put on by the different countries tendering for the New Year contract. Those displays are fabulous too!
Future guests thinking of holidaying here during the month of June may be interested to know that on four Saturday evenings during that month a fireworks display is put on by the different countries tendering for the New Year contract. Those displays are fabulous too!
end of july 2009
Review Submitted: August 12, 2009
Date of Stay: July 2009
We had a great time in Casa Rosada. It is a great place and very comfortable. The road is very steep but you get used to it. The information we received was very accurate. We will recommend this villa to our friends. The view from the house was fantastic. The food from the restaurant nearbij (I think it was calles Casa Verda) is good and very cheap.
Owner's Response: For nearly five years Casa Rosada has been enjoyed by holiday rental guests. We are delighted to be receiving bookings from an increasing variety of nationalities including our first from Latvia last year! It's worth mentioning that we welcome all ages however the open staircase can be a risk for toddlers and those with limited mobility.
Yes, the nearby restaurant is called "Costa Verde" and is inexpensive. From here you can watch the paragliders gently soaring past your table!
Yes, the nearby restaurant is called "Costa Verde" and is inexpensive. From here you can watch the paragliders gently soaring past your table!
great chill out cottage
Review Submitted: November 20, 2008
Date of Stay: January 2008
we stayed in Casa rosada in January and were really impressed with the cottage and its location
The weather at that time of year is really pleasant and warm. The wood burning stove is a great addition when it did get cooler in the evenings
the views are stunning and especially at night - we chose to sleep in the bedroom where you could see the lights of the town - it is so high up we actually felt we were looking down from an aeroplane cockpit
the cottage had everything we wanted and we felt very comfortable and at home there. the neighbours were especially friendly and very helpful about the drive and the best way to drive in and out - which we got used to after a couple of times.
This place is ideal if you like to be away from the more popular areas and want to do your own thing.
Bev and Alistair
The weather at that time of year is really pleasant and warm. The wood burning stove is a great addition when it did get cooler in the evenings
the views are stunning and especially at night - we chose to sleep in the bedroom where you could see the lights of the town - it is so high up we actually felt we were looking down from an aeroplane cockpit
the cottage had everything we wanted and we felt very comfortable and at home there. the neighbours were especially friendly and very helpful about the drive and the best way to drive in and out - which we got used to after a couple of times.
This place is ideal if you like to be away from the more popular areas and want to do your own thing.
Bev and Alistair
Owner's Response: Hello Bev and Alastair and thanks for taking the trouble to submit such a lovely review! It will be such a help to those considering a winter holiday at Casa Rosada. The sunsets at this time of year are quite breathtaking - perfectly timed to accompany a glass of delicious Madeira wine before dinner! I'm glad you had such a "chill out" time - and the owners and caretaking neighbours, Geoff and Susan, will be too. Best wishes from Judith, Island Homes Lda.
The best cottage we've stayed in!
Review Submitted: August 30, 2008
Date of Stay: August 2008
We had a fantastic 10 days in this beautiful cottage. We have stayed in many cottages all over Europe, but this one is the best we have experienced. It is a beautiful, spacious, well equipped house in a fantastic location.
The view from the balcony is amazing, particularly at sunset and there are some lovely walks on the doorstep, with detailed directions provided. The property is managed by some English neighbours, who couldn't be more helpful and friendly (a special mention for Benny the dog!) and the general level of service is excellent. We would love to return.
As the other reviewer stated, the entrance to the drive is rather challenging but for a confident driver, this is part of the character of the location and a small price to pay for the views. One other thing to note, we are also vegetarian and had no trouble eating out in the local restaurants - we must be less fussy than the other reviewer.
The view from the balcony is amazing, particularly at sunset and there are some lovely walks on the doorstep, with detailed directions provided. The property is managed by some English neighbours, who couldn't be more helpful and friendly (a special mention for Benny the dog!) and the general level of service is excellent. We would love to return.
As the other reviewer stated, the entrance to the drive is rather challenging but for a confident driver, this is part of the character of the location and a small price to pay for the views. One other thing to note, we are also vegetarian and had no trouble eating out in the local restaurants - we must be less fussy than the other reviewer.
Owner's Response: Many thanks for this outstanding review! We are all so happy that you loved Casa Rosada and had such a wonderful holiday. Kind of you to take the trouble to give positive feedback in response to some previous comments. We hope you are able to come back soon. Best wishes from Judith (agent), David (owner), Geoff & Sue (caretakers) and not forgetting Benny!
Walking and sightseeing from Casa Rosada
Review Submitted: June 21, 2008
Date of Stay: March 2008
This was our first time in Madeira and we thought it was stunning. Casa Rosada provided an excellent base for enjoying impressive views, taking excellent walks from the front door and enjoying the comforts of home from home accommodation. I was there with my husband and our 24 year old daughter - we all like country walks, sightseeing and eating out and so this was a good start. We did a few levada walks and I have to admit that some were very scary and hard work for the unfit - so beware! The house had everything needed for a comfortable stay - including heating in the cooler months. The terraces had excellent views which were very enjoyable after a hard day walking or sightseeing. We did eat in a few times as both my daughter and I are vegetarians and it did get a little difficult eating out with such a limited menu in every restaurant - they all seem to serve the same food.
Parking at the house was the only real drawback as it was truly precarious negotiating a sharp reverse into the gateway whilst on a very very steep incline. Not a very inviting prospect for anyone who is less than a 100% confident in such tight parking situations.
That aside, it was a great holiday and Casa Rosada comes highly recommended.
Parking at the house was the only real drawback as it was truly precarious negotiating a sharp reverse into the gateway whilst on a very very steep incline. Not a very inviting prospect for anyone who is less than a 100% confident in such tight parking situations.
That aside, it was a great holiday and Casa Rosada comes highly recommended.
Owner's Response: All we want is for guests to enjoy holidaying at Casa Rosada and appreciate this beautiful island so your comments are very welcome!
This more rural part of Madeira has only recently become easily accessible by road and popular with tourists which may explain why restaurants here offer a good quality of food but are comparatively unsophisticated and slow to catch on to the increasing demand for vegetarian dishes - hopefully this will improve.
You are quite right to point out that the approach to the house and parking is very steep and at an awkward angle, best tackled by confident and experienced drivers. I have tweaked our advertisement wording to ensure this is clear.
As you say, these drawbacks have not stopped you having a wonderful holiday at Casa Rosada and I am happy to say that the same applies to many other guests.
With thanks, Judith at Island Homes Rentals.
This more rural part of Madeira has only recently become easily accessible by road and popular with tourists which may explain why restaurants here offer a good quality of food but are comparatively unsophisticated and slow to catch on to the increasing demand for vegetarian dishes - hopefully this will improve.
You are quite right to point out that the approach to the house and parking is very steep and at an awkward angle, best tackled by confident and experienced drivers. I have tweaked our advertisement wording to ensure this is clear.
As you say, these drawbacks have not stopped you having a wonderful holiday at Casa Rosada and I am happy to say that the same applies to many other guests.
With thanks, Judith at Island Homes Rentals.
Aufenthalt in Casa Rosada im Oktober 2009
Review Submitted: October 26, 2009
Date of Stay: October 2009
Wir (4 Erwachsene) wohnten in Casa Rosada Mitte Oktober 2009 - mit 25 Grad C und Sonne jeden Tag. Das Haus liegt in 450m Höhe und bietet einen fantastischen Rundblick. Zwecks dieser exzellenten Lage muss man allerdings eine steile Straße mit ca. 30%-iger Steigung in Kauf nehmen. An sich kein Problem, nur sollte man eine PS-stärkere Variante als einen Opel Corsa 1.2 Automatik wählen, der schafft es beladen nur bis zur Hälfte!! Außerdem fährt es sich auch entspannter in den Bergen mit etwas mehr PS. Übrigens sollte man auf jeden Fall ein Auto mieten, die Busverbindungen in diesem Teil der Insel sind eher rar.
Das Haus war innen und außen in einem sehr guten Zustand und sehr sauber; nach einer Woche wurde nochmals sehr gut geputzt und die Wäsche gewechselt. Zu Beginn war der Kühlschrank reichlich gefüllt: Butter, Brot, Marmelade, Käse, Kaffee, Tee, Bier und Wein! Wir waren positiv überrascht. Es ist sinnvoll alle Lebensmittel im Kühlschrank oder gut verschlossenen Behältnissen aufzubewahren. So hatten wir keine Probleme mit "Tierchen".
Bis zum Sand-Strand nach Calheta fährt man ca. 15 min. mit dem Auto, dort sind auch ein großer Supermarkt, eine Touristen-Info und mehrere Restaurants.
Direkt in der Nähe von Casa Rosada (fünf Fußminuten) liegt ein kleines, familiär geführtes, Restaurant mit 180 Grad Rundum-Meerblick - und gutem, preiswertem Essen.
Wir waren sehr gern in Casa Rosada und können es weiterempfehlen.
Das Haus war innen und außen in einem sehr guten Zustand und sehr sauber; nach einer Woche wurde nochmals sehr gut geputzt und die Wäsche gewechselt. Zu Beginn war der Kühlschrank reichlich gefüllt: Butter, Brot, Marmelade, Käse, Kaffee, Tee, Bier und Wein! Wir waren positiv überrascht. Es ist sinnvoll alle Lebensmittel im Kühlschrank oder gut verschlossenen Behältnissen aufzubewahren. So hatten wir keine Probleme mit "Tierchen".
Bis zum Sand-Strand nach Calheta fährt man ca. 15 min. mit dem Auto, dort sind auch ein großer Supermarkt, eine Touristen-Info und mehrere Restaurants.
Direkt in der Nähe von Casa Rosada (fünf Fußminuten) liegt ein kleines, familiär geführtes, Restaurant mit 180 Grad Rundum-Meerblick - und gutem, preiswertem Essen.
Wir waren sehr gern in Casa Rosada und können es weiterempfehlen.
Nebel, Nässe Kakerlaken
Review Submitted: July 12, 2009
Date of Stay: June 2009
Schon die Zufahrtsstraße zum Haus ist eine richtige Mutprobe mit einer Steigung von über 20 % ,streckenweise ohne Absicherung zum Steilhang und gefühlte 2m. breit. Sollte wirklich vorher angegeben werden. Das Haus steht auf 500m Höhe und ist innen so feuch das alles danach riecht und die Wäsche in den Schränken auch feucht ist. Die Badewanne kann man nicht benutzen, schafft die Warmwassertherme nicht. In der Küche ist sehr vieles kaputt und sehr alt. Es gibt keinen deutschen Fernsehsender, nähmlich keine Sat-schüssel. Der Heizstrahler im Wohnz. ist defekt. Liegestühle gab es 2, Auflagen dafür waren stockig und für Stühle gedacht. Der eine Sonnenschirm hatte viele Löcher der zweite war am Stiel gebrochen. Die Auflagen der Plastikstühle waren fleckig und vergilbt. Direkt vorne am Haus liegt alles voller Baumüll ( Holz, Fensterrahmen ect. ). Aber das allerschlimmste ! Der Fußboden im Wohnzimmer lebt ! Wenn abends im Wohnzimmer die Tischlampe brennt kommen Sie aus den Ritzen und Fußleisten Kakerlaken, Tausendfüssler, Käfer. Da half nur Gift, von dem ja genug vorhanden war. Fazit : Das Haus ist von aussen und innen hergerichtet aber nicht ohne Ekelgefühl bewohnbar.
Owner's Response: Der Weg bis zu dem Haus ist ein typisches madeirensischen Land Lane: Rough Beton, steil, schmal und mit ungeschützten Tropfen auf beiden Seiten. Alle diese Punkte sind in der Anfahrt zum Haus. Das Haus liegt hoch oben auf einem Grat, ist zehn Jahre alt und Böden, Türen, Küchen-und Schränke sind aus Holz, wie die Fotos zeigen deutlich. Das Fernsehgerät ist abgestimmt auf die lokalen madeirensischen Kanäle - das ist, nach dem alle, Madeira! Diese Aspekte sind unveränderbar. Da diese Überprüfung wurde der Eigentümer der Casa Rosada haben die Verwaltung und Reinigung von Programmen ihr Haus und auch verändert. Die Gartenmöbel bereits ersetzt worden, die defekte Heizung entfernt, und das Bad repariert. Bei Buchungen ermöglichen, das Haus wird ein weiteres "neues Gesicht" Operation zur Behebung der Mängel, die in diesem Review - und andere Mängel, von denen nicht. Was die Gäste nicht zu erwähnen ist die hervorragende Leistungen, die sie erhalten nach ihrer Beschwerde: innerhalb von drei Stunden wurden sie mit einer anderen Eigenschaft ein Schwimmbad, die Mieten in der Regel doppelt so hoch wie die Preise der Casa Rosada, ohne Aufpreis, und wurden dort für den letzten fünf Tagen nach ihrem zwei Wochen Urlaub.
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