A Unique Cosmopolitan City
Funchal holidays can be enjoyed in a resort whose name is thought to be derived from the Portuguese word 'funcho', which translates as fennel in English - Funchal is a unique, cosmopolitan city in the south east of the island of Madeira. It has gentle slopes leading from sea level up to around 1200 metres which provide a natural amphitheatre-like environment creating a natural shelter, which provides some of the best weather on the island.
Funchal is the island's capital and has a colonial feel to it, true to its Portuguese roots, and a mix of the old and the new with its traditional markets and modern shopping centres. It has a thriving international port, an attractive seafront promenade lined with palm trees and a black pebble beach 10 minutes from the resort centre. Accommodation for holidays in Funchal centres on quality upmarket hotels, many of which offer guests an option to upgrade to their 'flexi-dine' packages.
This means that you can book on a bed and breakfast basis and then have the option to choose how many evening meals you want included in your stay. This, understandably, appeals to many holidaymakers. Funchal holidays can be spent enjoying days out visiting the famous botanical gardens or the Se Cathedral or hurtle down the gentle slopes of the city in the popular 'snowless' toboggan run.