Villa Chapeludo

Villa Chapeludo is situated in the most perfect spot in Monte a pretty hillside town high above the city of Funchal. Monte was originally designed as a retreat for the Madeiran wealthy to escape the heat of the summer, the air here is cooler, the pathways lined by large leafy trees offering protection from the scorching heat.

The stunning gardens of Monte are all well worth visiting, the Monte Palace Tropical Garden and Botanical Garden are right on your doorstep.

Getting around is relatively easy, it is only a 15 minute drive down the narrow winding streets to the centre of the old town.

The old town is characterised by its narrow cobblestone streets and the facades of old houses, and home to two beautiful churches, Corpo Santo Chapel and Socorro Church. Most of the city’s shops and restaurants are to be found around here, seek out the Rua da Santa Maria, a programme of public art has transformed this into an outdoor art gallery.

The modern, cosmopolitan, rejuvenated city of today is very different from its fennel growing, pirate days of old, but you can still pretend because moored down at the harbour you will find a replica of Christopher Columbus’ ship, the Santa Maria which takes visitors out to sea on daily trips, well worth making time for. Down here adjacent to where the cruise liners come in is perhaps Funchal’s busiest new attraction, CR7, a museum dedicated to the achievements its most famous ‘export’, world-class footballer Cristiano Ronaldo who was born here in the city, it’s not only about football, well worth a visit.  Even if you don’t go into CR7 you can still have your photo taken with his life size statue outside.

The are many superb museums depicting the varied past of the island, the Museum of Natural History, Frederico De Freitas Museum presents a collection of tiles, paintings and sculpture, the Quinta das Cruzes Museum and Gallery reportedly houses a tombstone that covers the mortal remains of “Henry the German’ children will love this collection of archaeological sculptures set out in the old garden of the museum. A great part of the splendour of these museums is the buildings in which they are housed, some of the city’s finest from a bygone era.

Eating out is so easy and informal here in Madeira, such an amazing selection of fresh local produce from the land and the sea. Fish, in particular the black scabbard fish, and bananas feature on most restaurant menus – on the same plate would you believe, be assured it is rather delicious.

Should you wish to explore further afield a trip heading towards the northeast would take you past Câmara de Lobos, a tiny fishing village now almost a suburb of the city, famous as the home of Poncha, the islands favourite drink derived from sugar cane spirit, sip carefully it does pack a punch. Amazingly the Santa Maria ‘pirate’ ship was also built here. A little further on is an experience not for the feint hearted, the Girão Cape sky walk. Taking a step out onto this glass platform 580m above sea level over the highest cliffs in Europe is toe curling, coffee is available at the café if is not for you! In the far the northeast corner you come to Ponto Pargo, it’s as though you have arrived at the end of the world, sunsets here are spectacular.  They are however just as enjoyable while having a cool drink by the pool from your base at Villa Chapeludo.

Read more about Funchal

Please be aware that the location tab shown on the website is not based on the property's exact location; therefore, all location amenities are an approx of facilities, restaurants, and villages/towns you might find around the property. The property's exact location will be provided to you before arrival and might come along with some recommendations about the area and what to visit.

THE REGION

Funchal is the largest city on the island of Madeira and is encapsulated by Pico Ruivo and its neighbouring mountains, which look as if they have been seamlessly carved into the skyline by a Lusitanian God.

There is no better spot to start your holiday than in the Old Town, which illustrates its personality though street art, architecture and busy local businesses. There are many fine eateries, botanical gardens, a cathedral and impressive museums. Perhaps hop on the Madeira Cable Car as one of your first activities, as this will give you a great idea of the islands size.

Many flock Funchal in order to enjoy the Atlantic Coastline. This is home to its prominent harbour, where hundreds of boats and yachts, some of which enable visitors to embark on a magical sea voyage, can be found. Funchal really is a destination for lovers of the sea; as there are renowned surfing points, as well as being a great place to spot some whales.

Madeirans are also notorious for their elaborate festivals. If you’re travelling during the New Year, you will be treated to one of the world’s biggest Firework Festivals…a dazzling sight! During late February & early Mrach, you are able to witness Carnival and the streets of Funchal are lit with parades and festivities. If that’s not enough for you; the Atlantic Festival International Fireworks Competition, Wine Festival and Christmas are all noteworthy dates for anyone visiting Funchal.

There are some incredible villas on the island and we believe that we have done a great job finding them for you. Have a browse and let us know what you think.

ABOUT MADEIRA

The island of Madeira can be found south west of mainland Portugal, in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Due to the island’s location, its is considered to have a Mediterranean climate that serves locals and visitors all year round – making it an ideal escape from reality at any point in the year.

What we love Madeira for is its seemingly ongoing festivals! Madeirans have found an excuse to celebrate most things; including film, their natural surroundings and key patron saints. This means that planning a visit during these days and even weeks of commemoration is well worth it (scroll down to see some key dates).

Madeira is divided into several municipals, each with a special offering to those who visit this island. Our favourite two communities are Funchal and Calheta and these are where you will find most of our beautiful villas.

Madeira’s landscape extends much more than a striking coastline. Make sure you pack some hiking boots and venture inland during your stay. With mountainous trails along Vereda do Arieiro, or more countryside appropriate paths like Levada do Risco and waterfall chasing treks like Levada do Caldeirao Verde – this archipelago has everything a keen outdoors person requires.

For those who enjoy either playing or watching sports, you’ll be happy to know Madeira offers so much selection. Madeira is also home to three notable football clubs, so if you’re visiting during the football season and want to see a good quality of football, you have every chance to. Porto Santo Golfe is the island’s renowned golf course. With an 18-hole course (Par 72) overlooking a Galapagos-like backdrop, golf enthusiasts will certainly want a ‘slice’ of the action! Surfers can access some great beaches like Jardim do Mar, Ponta Pequena, Paul do Mar, and Fajã da Ovelha in order to find some swell. Or, if you’re simply looking to recline on a sun lounger and soak up some rays, whilst listening to crystal clear waves break as they hit the shores, you will find plenty of man-made beaches & Lidos created for your leisure!

With a superb climate, close proximity to the coastline, wonderful cuisine, charming locals and astonishing scenery – this is a fabulous holiday choice for families & friends.

But while you're enjoying one of our fantastic villas in Madeira, you may well want to take some time out from all that sun worship to explore everything else the region has to offer – so we've put together this handy travel guide to give you a little help and inspiration!

Download our Madeira travel guide >>