Quinta Da Casa Branca

Location. Situated 200 metres from the ocean, Quinta da Casa Branca is a contemporary boutique hotel set in a 19th-century estate in a quiet residential area, yet still within walking distance of the oceanfront promenade and restaurants of Funchal's tourist zone, 500 metres away. Funchal airport (FNC) is 20 kilometres away, approximately 20 minutes' drive.

Hotel Features. The heated pool is open all year and is set in the extensive gardens, which contain dozens of labelled plant specimens. The health club contains a fitness room, steam room, sauna, and two- person spa tub. The Phytoceane spa offers anti-aging facials, mud treatments and aromatherapy massage. The hotel library has a PC with complimentary Internet access.

Guests of Quinta da Casa Branca enjoy a complimentary buffet breakfast each morning that includes prepared-to-order egg dishes and pancakes. The garden-side restaurant also offers lunch. Set in a 19th-century building, the fine-dining dinner restaurant serves contemporary Portuguese fare.

There are seawater swimming pools and a diving centre at Lido, 750 metres from the hotel. Water sports are available at Formosa Beach, two kilometres away and discounts are available at the island's two golf courses, Palheiro and Santo do Serra.

Guestrooms. The 43 air- conditioned guestrooms are set in a single-storey and two-storey building with no lift. All have terraces or balconies overlooking the gardens, with teak outdoor furniture. Decor features wood floors, white linen curtains, and botanical drawings. Marble bathrooms include bathrobes and premium toiletries. Amenities include cable TV and safes.

Expert Tip. Guests can hike along the centuries-old levadas, irrigation channels from the mountains. Trails and paths run through the mountains, by the ocean, and through forests such as the Laurissilva, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.