Madeira, Madeira, Portugal

REFNO:553325. This extensive functional home puts you right in the heart of Funchal – both geographically and historically. Not only will you be bang in the centre, next to the Farmers’ Market, but your large room was constructed as part of a traditional old Madeiran embroidery factory – and mementos are profusely distributed around the property. Its past means you will have plenty of light via the tall windows and high ceilings, while the minimalist monochrome décor is calming, clean and uncluttered. Perhaps the centrepiece of this comfortable home is the communal terrace which has its own kitchen and plenty of tables and chairs for al fresco dining – plus a hanging wicker chair that seats two for a more intimate night ‘in’. Your home is the hub for touring the island, with a bus stop right outside, and all of Funchal’s many restaurants, cafes, bars and shops are reachable on foot. You’ll see this magical island fancy-free but always want to return to this comfortable, unembroidered, relaxing base. Home truths: *There is a cot, highchair and baby bath available on request *There is a double sofabed in the living room *This a ground floor flat, so there are no access problems *There is secure parking next door but otherwise most parking in Madeira is paid *No parties or pets, please