Madeira

Holidays by Destination Europe Portugal Madeira Accommodation 

In the ‘80s Funchal claimed the highest proportion of five-star properties in Europe. Of course, five-stars can be allocated for slightly irrelevant features such as marble entrances but the hotels are, on the whole, pretty comfortable, and a growing number are now welcoming families, particularly during school holidays. Many are of the classic, 200 or even 300-odd room variety, strong on facilities, but less on style.

Although a growing number of tour operators are offering villas, so far these are limited in number and are generally well away from the centre and, given the style of landscape, may well feature steep drops on one side or another so may not be suitable with young children. Self-catering apartments are more widely on offer, this being a type of accommodation the tourist board has been encouraging, but the rooms tend to be small and offering just a corner kitchenette so compare badly in terms of price with a similar hotel double bedroom.

More interesting are the older Quinta style properties, though operators differ in their opinion on the suitability of these for families. Most reckon children would always be welcome and that seldom is there anything seriously precious or fragile on show. Others fear the presence of antiques could make life stressful for parents. In practice children are seen running around at these so it may just be a question of the operators still focusing on their older clientele.

An alternative if you want to spend the money, is Reids, the island's first hotel which, despite extensive additions, has managed to retain something of its old world air. It has introduced facilities for children and runs a kids club in July and August. The only problem might be the potential encounter with the archetypal Disgusted of Tunbridge Wells who feels that children don't mix with his or her holidays.

One final point. The island has few flat areas so even large hotels might incorporate steep drops. If you have a toddler attracted to such spots you should check the layout of the accommodation, including public areas, before booking.