Vila Cais da Gaivota – A hideaway by the sea, in Madeira.

Stop, destress and relax by the sea – this was the main purpose of this trip to Caniçal.

The more I live in Madeira, the more I appreciate the fact that,“we can experience a holiday, inside the island, a little micro-adventure”.

The contrasts between the north and south of the Island, plus the variety of accommodation and outdoor activities, make Madeira an ideal destination.

Location:

Vila Cais da Gaivota is situated in the south-eastern part of Madeira Island, in Caniçal, a picturesque fishing village, 20 km from Funchal and 7 km from Madeira Airport.

It is located between Prainha and the Caniçal Business center, on a sea cliff with superb views. It has a pontoon with direct and private access to the limpid sea of ​​Caniçal.

It has a beautiful garden with two solarium areas and private parking on site. If you choose this location it is advisable to rent a car, especially if you want to explore the rest of the island.

Vila Rooms and Amenities

This Vila sleeps 4 people.

It has a bedroom with a comfortable double bed, a large closet and a window with a sea view. It also has a crib, a high chair and a baby bath if required.

The kitchen has a small electric hob, microwave, kettle, coffee machine and fridge. We were offered some local fruits on arrival, such as passion fruits and custard apples.

There is a small bathroom with shower, a cabinet mirror and a good hairdryer.

All towels are provided, including beach towels.

The living room has a flat-screen TV with cable channels, 2 sofas (1 of which is a large sofa bed), a dining table and free fast Wi-Fi.

The outdoor area is very pleasant. It has a dining area, barbecue, solarium and also has a hammock where you can relax while contemplating the sea, reading a book or watching the sunrise / sunset.

Activities:

This vila provides free bicycles and kayaks, as well as snorkelling equipment.

There are several walks that you can enjoy in this area, such as the Levada Nova (Caniçal / Feiteirinhas Tunnel), the Vereda de Ponta de São Lourenço (with several viewpoints not to be missed, such as Ponta do Rostro) or the Vereda do Pico do Facho / Ribeira Natal).

One of the local museums not to be missed is the Whale Museum. Here you can discover all about the whales and dolphins of Madeira. You can also go for a virtual ride in a yellow submarine.

The beach, Prainha is a beautiful natural sand beach, and is located about 1 km away from the Villa.

The marina of Quinta do Lorde is located 2,5 km away from the villa and has several services at your disposal. Hop on a boat or a sailboat to enjoy the coastline views with its seabirds, dolphins or whales. You can also dive with the support of the Blue Diving Center, whether initiated or certified diver.

Meals:

If you choose to cook at the villa, there is a Mini Market (Irmãos Vieira) 8 minutes away by car, where you can buy the necessary items. There is also a take away restaurant – O Manel, 4 minutes away by car.

If you choose a restaurant, there are several good options in this area, such as Tasquinha do Pescador, the Bar Amarelo, the Capristante and the Aquarium in Caniçal or the Maré-Alta in Machico.

What makes this Vila special?

The location and private access to the sea, the decoration and the attention to detail, are some of the factors to highlight. The reception is warm and caring and we immediately feel at home, in our own refuge by the sea.

Unforgettable are those sunny days, where the sea shines and invites you to go for a bath on the sea. You will feel in heaven…

This is a fabulous villa with an incredible, exclusive location, highly recommended for anyone looking for a holiday away from stress, walking, cycling, snorkelling or diving in the sea.

Address: Caminho da Rochinha, 4, 9200-043 Caniçal, Machico, Madeira

Cost: From 110 € per night.

Make your reservation here.

My stay was courtesy of Vila Cais da Gaivota but opinions are my own.