Madeira - A Piece of Cake

Accommodation Oasis Atlantic Hotel. Leaving a cold, cloudy, Grey Britain at the end of September, its always nice when you walk off the plane to be greeted by a warm balmy breeze. As it was our first time in Madeira, and we had been told that the weather may not be what we wanted at that time of year, we were releived and pleasantly surprised by the temperature.

After a short bus ride to the terminal ( Funchal is a small airport with a bus shuttle for passengers), we boarded the hotel bus for the half - hour transfer to the hotel. As we pulled up outside, a few passengers commented about the hotel next door, the Riu Palace, which is relatively new, and seemed to put our hotel in the shade a little. Our fears were dispelled when we walked into the foyer, which opens into a small lounge with panoramic views over the swimming pool, to the sea. Our room was a 'side' room but still had a very pleasant sea view, and was immaculately cleaned and prepared.

Going out to the pool, it was obvious that it was clean, tidy, and in fact had a full-time attendant to oversee all activity in and around it. He was also there every morning, cleaning the pool and surrounding area, and could not be faulted. Going past the pool takes you through the gardens and through a security gate onto the short promenade. This is a VERY small resort. If all you want is peace and quiet look no further.

The hotel runs a free shuttle bus into Funchal city centre which takes around half an hour depending on traffic levels. If you don't hire a car you may find that Canico is a little isolated if peace and quiet is not what your looking for! The food in the hotel in the main restaurant is good and they try to vary it over the weeks stay, it was also reasonably priced. A five couse meal with water and wine was 15 Euros per head.

Service in the hotel is excellent. The maid was in every day to clean and replace toiletries etc. The hotel foyer area also has a small shop which wasn't too expensive, and supplies most of the little items you may need on holiday.

Entertainment was provided though it has to be said it probably about the usual hotel entertainment standard - you've seen better! The friendliness and helpfullness of the Madeiran people has to be experienced to be believed. Even with a languge barrier, they will go out of their way to help in any way they can. I was very impressed, and can't wait to go back there.


Madeira - A Piece of Cake
*By P Ramsbottom, UK*
Destination Canico, Madeira
Categories Singles, No Kids, Over 50's
When Travelled September 2003
Length of Stay 7 Days
Holiday Cost £250-500
Spending Money £250
Travel Agent Lastminute.com
Tour Operator
Airline Excel
Insurance Directly from the Insurer
Accommodation Oasis Atlantic Hotel. Leaving a cold, cloudy, Grey Britain at the end of September, its always nice when you walk off the plane to be greeted by a warm balmy breeze. As it was our first time in Madeira, and we had been told that the weather may not be what we wanted at that time of year, we were releived and pleasantly surprised by the temperature. After a short bus ride to the terminal ( Funchal is a small airport with a bus shuttle for passengers), we boarded the hotel bus for the half - hour transfer to the hotel. As we pulled up outside, a few passengers commented about the hotel next door, the Riu Palace, which is relatively new, and seemed to put our hotel in the shade a little. Our fears were dispelled when we walked into the foyer, which opens into a small lounge with panoramic views over the swimming pool, to the sea. Our room was a 'side' room but still had a very pleasant sea view, and was immaculately cleaned and prepared. Going out to the pool, it was obvious that it was clean, tidy, and in fact had a full-time attendant to oversee all activity in and around it. He was also there every morning, cleaning the pool and surrounding area, and could not be faulted. Going past the pool takes you through the gardens and through a security gate onto the short promenade. This is a VERY small resort. If all you want is peace and quiet look no further. The hotel runs a free shuttle bus into Funchal city centre which takes around half an hour depending on traffic levels. If you don't hire a car you may find that Canico is a little isolated if peace and quiet is not what your looking for! The food in the hotel in the main restaurant is good and they try to vary it over the weeks stay, it was also reasonably priced. A five couse meal with water and wine was 15 Euros per head. Service in the hotel is excellent. The maid was in every day to clean and replace toiletries etc. The hotel foyer area also has a small shop which wasn't too expensive, and supplies most of the little items you may need on holiday. Entertainment was provided though it has to be said it probably about the usual hotel entertainment standard - you've seen better! The friendliness and helpfullness of the Madeiran people has to be experienced to be believed. Even with a languge barrier, they will go out of their way to help in any way they can. I was very impressed, and can't wait to go back there.

Travelogue A wonderful place to visit. Although I am not particularly a 'walker', many people have told me how enjoyable the walking holidays are, following the small streams that are cut into the mountain sides, which bring water (excellent quality) to the towns. The cable car tip to the botanical gardens gives wonderful views over Funchal, and the gardens are a days visit on their own. The Koi Carp are huge! Then the memorale sledge trip down the streets to the outskirts of Funchal. Everyone has to do this once! I'll be back!

Must See Attractions Cable Car to Monte Gardens Botanical Gardens Monte Toboggan Ride


© Fabulous Holidays 2004. Photographs courtesy of