Seven nights in sunny Ponta do Sol

Madeira’s south coast is legendary for both the warmth of its weather and the warm welcome from its locals – and the jewel in the south coast’s crown is the village of Ponta do Sol.

Sitting in a naturally-secluded harbour with a bright, sunny microclimate, it’s no surprise Ponta do Sol lends itself to long lazy days and balmy, romantic evenings.

Your home for the week is the cliff-top Estalagem Ponta do Sol, with its spellbinding panoramic ocean view. Chic, contemporary architecture combined with the Estalagem’s friendly and attentive team make this the ideal island getaway. Where better to unwind after the stresses and strains of the past year, with the best seasonal Madeiran cuisine and outstanding Portuguese wines on hand.

When you’re not relaxing by the pool, you’ll visit the vineyards at Quinta do Barbusano with our island guide, followed by a trip to sea with Madeira’s bottle-nosed dolphins and sperm whales. We’ll also provide a hire car – head into the capital Funchal to ride the Carro de Cesto toboggans, explore the cobbled lanes and restaurants of Paul do Mar, and take a drive to the must-see Curral das Freiras: the isolated ‘Nun’s Valley’ mountain hideaway where the Sisters of Santa Clara famously took refuge from pirates in the 16^th Century.