Highlights of Madeira

Depart for Funchal, collect your hire car and drive across the island to Quinta do Furão, a charming hotel on the clifftop near Santana. All rooms come with sea views and the hotel boasts a number of traditional quirky elements, including two wine presses, while Jacuzzi, pool and sauna soaks offer more contemporary relaxation. You'll also have time to explore; colourful thatched houses form pretty villages and sweeping vineyards dot green hills. It's all marked by levada aqueducts. Dating back to the 16th century, they make for spectacular walks among the region's bright verdure.

Stay: Quinta do Furão (Superior)

Make your way to the far east of the island and Quinta Splendida, where rooms and suites are set in beautiful botanical gardens that host over 1,000 species of plants. It all spills down onto the shimmering Atlantic – a view best taken in from the freshwater pool or the sun terraces of the 19th-century manor house. Relax further with superlative dining and a range of excellent spa treatments. Despite its secluded, green-fringed position, you'll also be within touching distance of Funchal. Here, 300-year-old manors remember the life of Madeiran aristocracy, art collections beautify bishop's palaces and narrow streets weave through historic fishermen's cottages and merchants' houses. Closer to base, the indulgent seafood restaurants of coastal Caniçal are just 100m away.

Stay: Quinta Splendida (Superior)

Head west Funchal to the beautiful Quinta das Vistas, a prestigious new hotel opened in 2002, created from a prominent manor house superbly positioned on the brow of a hill with fabulous panoramic views over the mountains, the ocean and Funchal's city centre. You'll end your holiday with yet more spa relaxation, fine dining indulgence and the chance to experience Madeiran life in Estreito de Câmara de Lobos – the hotel's charming village host. Once again, the historic levadas will lead you on winding walks into the surrounding greenery as the island's southern sun shines on. You also might want to play a round of golf or take to the waters with everything from sunset cruises to snorkelling and kayaking making the most of Madeira's pretty coastline.

Stay: Quinta das Vistas (Deluxe)

Drop your car back at Funchal's airport to make your flight home.