From the moment we booked with Nyara, we knew we were about to have a great holiday. Her passion for Madeira really showed even before we arrived on this amazing island; from researching into some activities we specifically wanted to do like kayaking, arranging transport at special rates, sorting motorbike hire, to sharing local knowledge on where to eat, what to eat, how to travel around and generally explore, all tailored just for us.
The apartment was clean, spacious and well appointed. It probably could do with a little modernising at some point, but it was so delightful sitting on our own balcony, listening to the waves roll in, we couldn't stop smiling the whole time. Even packed my yoga mat and thoroughly enjoyed my morning practice on the roof terrace as the sun rose over the bay - sublime!
Easy reach of the pool, the beach and a fab sea lido. Loads of great restaurants within 5-10 mins walk. A super pastry shop/cafe and fruit market close. 10 mins walk to a bus stop that can take you into Funchal. All really easy.
Nyara also introduced us to her partner Miguel who runs fantastic jeep tours - these are really special - don't book via any other group, as Miguel offers an authentic view of the island, from a local's perspective not the main tourist rat-runs all the other companies do. He genuinely wants you to experience all the wonders of the island, and will adapt routes according to the weather, opposed to just taking you the same way because it's easier. He stops at local cafe's with friendly islanders making local specialities - Wonderful!
These guys also have some fantastic contacts for sailing trips to see whales and dolphins, with stop-offs at key secluded spots - we ran out of time to go, but again, if this is your thing, don't book with any other tour as they pack loads of people together on a larger boat and take you on a set route, whereas, Miguel's local company will only take a small number and will have you experience the island as the locals do. Like wise with the kayak company he set us up with - amazing personalised service, paddling to a protected nature reserve where we all then could snorkel.
We had an amazing time, the apartment location was super, and with Nyara and Miguel who helped us experience the real Madeira, we just didn't want to leave. In fact I am already scheming to work out how to get back ... especially as Nyara mentioned she has a few apartments we can try :)
Thank you for a fantastic holiday x