Quinta da Casa Branca is situated in a central residential area of Funchal, the capital of Madeira. It is a intimate boutique hotel, of gorgeous gardens and friendly service, surrounded by acres of parkland. Contemporary in style, it is a move away from the more traditional Spanish style; instead, it is populated with bespoke designer pieces and clean, modern lines.

The facilities

Good facilities, more in keeping with a larger hotel. There's a small spa on site, which offers an array of treatments, a fitness centre and heated swimming pool. The main restaurant is very popular throughout Madeira. It lives in the odlest part of the building, which dates back to the early 19th-century, and serves up a sophisticated menu of modern Portugese cuisine. For fans of the Great Outdoors, Quinta da Casa Branca also boasts a second eatery, the Garden Pavillion, which overlooks the swimming pool.