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Funchal holidays
Funchal, the capital city of Madeira, is a fascinating and unique town, and, situated along the south-east coast of the island, enjoys some of the best weather on the island. This historic town, dating back 500 years, is now a vibrant and bustling centre, and home to almost two-thirds of the islands’ population. Set in a deep natural harbour, and against the stunning backdrop of the magnificent mountains and green hills, Funchal has a gorgeous natural beauty, with exotic tropical plants and gardens spread throughout the town, adding to the charm of the steep 16th century cobbled streets, elegant squares and smart colonial buildings.
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Holidays in Funchal – An elegant upmarket resort
The small town of Funchal is divided into three distinct areas – the historic downtown, housing the marina and the business district, the residential area in the hills and the Lido, the main tourist centre. Far flatter than the other districts, the Lido area is where all the hotels, shops and restaurants are found, and a coastal promenade runs along the front, lined with palm trees and bordered by tropical gardens. The black pebble beach at Praia Formosa (awarded a Blue Flag for cleanliness) sits just 10 minutes from Funchal, and offers a wide range of facilities, including life-guards, a kindergarten and various snack bars. Three public lidos in Funchal offer the ideal place for swimming and sunbathing. Funchal port has an old-fashioned feel, and is a popular docking place for visiting cruise ships. Most of the hotels in Funchal are of a particular standard, offering 4 or 5 star accommodation, and the town and its’ surrounding areas has a number of charming small ‘quintas’ and guest houses to stay in.
Holidays in Funchal – Stroll around the historic town and take in the sights and sounds
The compact town of Funchal is easy to get around, and the ideal place to explore on foot. Historic buildings to stroll around include the 15th century cathedral, numerous churches and elegant colonial houses, and the charming cobbled streets reveal delights at every turn. Nature lovers will appreciate the rich array of tropical plants found throughout Funchal, and exotic flora including orchids and cacti can be seen in the Botanical Gardens on the edge of town. Plenty of restaurants and bars offer a great choice of traditional and local fare, and Funchal Market offers a fascinating display of the fresh local produce on offer.
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