Zen on the Pearl of the Atlantic
Six-hundred and fifty miles off the coast of Portugal lie the Portuguese island that has been iconically termed the "floating garden of the Atlantic." Madeira is an archipelago with beauty at every turn. The majestically grand mountains, burnt orange terra cotta roofed valley villages and teal colored ocean front offer a feast for the eyes from the highest point of the island to the sea, and everywhere in between. Madeira is blessed with a nearly perfect climate, strikingly gorgeous scenery and a beautiful rich culture. It's no wonder why you'll find all of the locals with a genuine smile on their face.
photo via Casa Velha do Palheiro
Madeira has it all, despite it being barely visible on a map. It's an island filled with romanticism, adventure and relaxation. It's global presence throughout history has mainly been attributed to it's deliciously sweet Madeira wine, a favorite among many historical icons like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Franklin. But, as of recent it has a new "claim to fame" - being the birthplace of uber famous Portuguese soccer star, Cristiano Ronaldo. But to those who enjoy visiting Madeira, they understand that Madeira can offer a most gorgeous extraordinary stay.
photo via Casa Velha do Palheiro
On a hill overlooking the main city of Funchal, lies an estate with a wealth of history. In modern time, it's known as Casa Velha do Palheiro, a five star country house hotel with a relaxing spa, an 18-hole, par 72 Championship layout golf course, iconic victorian styled gardens, and an equisitely, elegantly rich dining experience. As you make your way to the estate, you're warmly greeted by the ever increasingly extrordinary view of the small city and path of whimsical flower beds leading up to the estate gates.
photo via Casa Velha do Palheiro
Casa Velha do Palheiro has an old-time charm to it. The country house architechtural design of the houses and influence in the garden's landscape take you to a time of simplicity. And while Casa Velha do Palheiro offers just about all of the amenities you may need, their focus is on relaxation and simplicity. Being a part of the Relais & Châteaux establishment is a testament to just that. Detaching from the yesterdays and tomorrows and being here, now. The richness of the food, the tranquility of the gardens, the zen of the spa, all help connect you to the present. Although the estate is so close to the city it's easy to feel detached from the rest of the world, making it the perfect balance for those who want to fully detach or partially detach on the hills of Madeira.
photo via Saccharum Hotel Resort & Spa
For some, detaching happens closer to sea level. And Saccharum Hotel Resort & Spa tries to help you do just that. Saccharum is an up and coming high-end resort gaining lots of accolades in its first few months of opening. It's the sister resort of the more family oriented, Calheta Beach Resort, but is striving to outshine the rest of the spa and modern looking resorts around the island. The hotel is on a part of the island that is the closest Madeira has to a beach town. In fact, it's one of the few places on the island you can enjoy a sandy beach. For those who have aversions to sand, there is a rooftop pool that will not only keep you sand-free but also impress you with it's style.
photo via Saccharum Hotel Resort & Spa
The ambience is modern, zen and dark. Entering Saccharum is like journeying into the thick of a bamboo forest, it's just you and your mind… and a few auburn gears. Their elegant, state-of-the-art spa continues with the theme and is one reason why Saccharum is gaining so much publicity. Body scrubs of decident Madeiran sugarcane, followed by a relaxing Swedish massage is treat worth treating yourself to.
photo via Saccharum Hotel Resort & Spa
The island is a place that is sure to leave you wanting to return time and time again. You are sure to find the peace, nature and adventure you are looking for in any good trip. Experience Madeira, you won't regret it.
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