Small Boutique hotels in MADEIRA

The name of this Portuguese island in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Africa recalls the original exuberance of its vegetation. Also known as the island of flowers, the strelitzia or bird-of-paradise is one of its symbols.

Strolling through the historic center of Funchal, the capital, see how urban art fuels tradition. The Mercado dos lavradores, overflowing with exotic fruits, fish and flowers, is a gift for the senses. Standing out right in the front row of the coast, is the Forte de Santiago, a 17th century fortress that protected the port. Ancient "quintas", Portuguese manor houses or estates, today host small luxury hotels.

The terrain of Madeira is synonymous with spectacular natural viewpoints. Eira do Serrado has dizzying views over the Valley of the Nuns. The Cabo Girãois the highest cliff in Europe.

For those who love hiking, Madeira's "levadas" are routes along water channels of hundreds of kilometers, which run through the island and pass through extraordinary natural landscapes. Although this is not an island of beaches, discover the extraordinary natural pools of volcanic rock, such as Porto Moniz. The native architecture reaches its peak in the triangular houses with thatched roofs in Santana.