Zen in the Sky

Nestled on an upscale gated resort, complete with three shared swimming pools, a gym, a games room, and access to Praia Formosa, this home is a gem. But the luxurious location and amenities aren’t even the best thing about this beguiling apartment. It’s the 480 sqft terrace that takes the cake. With marvellous views across the Atlantic Ocean, it’s truly special.

Waking up is a lot less of a struggle when you know you’re going to be met with the sparkling sea view. Spend lazy mornings reading in the hanging egg chair, chatting on the boho-chic cushion sofa, and tucking into breakfast around the outdoor table. You could even roll out your yoga mat for a satisfying stretch, inspired by the zen of the flourishing plants. And at dusk, the views are unforgettable – nothing beats watching the fiery sun dip into the sea, glass of local wine in hand.

The terrace is undoubtedly the showstopper of this home, but the interior is a strong contender. It’s been thoughtfully decorated to exude elegance and luxury while maintaining warmth. The homeliness is thanks in part to the plush sofa, tempting you to settle in for an afternoon nap. And for those cooler evenings, the chic mid-century dining is the perfect place for group dinners, with the funky low-hanging light fixture casting a warm glow.

The apartment is gorgeous, but you’ll want to make use of your shared swimming pools. The infinity pool is especially beautiful, take dips in the glassy water to cool off from the mid-day Mediterranean sun. There are plenty of restaurants around in Estrada Monumental, but if you want to explore more of the city, hop in a car and you’ll be in the mix of Funchal’s city centre and its cultural landmarks, museums, and wine bars in just seven minutes.

Home truths:
*At full occupancy, two people will be sleeping on the two single sofa beds in the living room
*The twin beds in the second bedroom can be made into a king-size bed upon request
*Your host can provide a high chair, cot, and baby both upon request
*There are three swimming pools, a gym, and a games room here – they're shared with the resort's other residents
*There are two free spaces in the underground car park if you plan on driving
*There's a dedicated desk here if you'd like to catch up on some work during your stay
*Your host offers 24-hour check-in
*The nearest taxi rank is a two-minute walk away and the nearest bus stop is just a one-minute walk away