Casa Velha do Palheiro
Casa Velha do Palheiro
Funchal, Madeira
On my visit to the Island of Madeira, located in the Middle of the Atlantic Ocean, this past May I had the great pleasure of staying at the Casa Velha do Palheiro, an uncommon name for a hotel – a five star hotel as a matter of fact. After a very long flight, delayed more than once, lost my connections, I was happy to arrive and get some rest, even if it was for a short period. I was visiting, the beautiful, multi color, the island of Madeira to participate in the Madeira Film Festival
As the driver climbed the narrow, winding street and he pulled in the driveway, the combination of colors gave me the feeling that this was indeed a very special site. At the distance, a large cruise ship was occupying space at the Port of Funchal.
I was given one of the two Senior Suites at the golf wing with a beautiful view of the gardens and the golf course. The large suite was decorated with “lithographs depicting the 19th Century Madeira” by English Artist Andrew Pickens giving me a glimpse of the Madeira in the mid 1800’s.
Casa Velha do Palheiro, located at the top of hill next to the Palheiro Gardens, was originally created by Count Carvalhal.
The room was large and the bed comfortable. The view was spectacular. During the night it was a pleasure to listen to all of the sounds of the insects. I woke up to the singing of the birds, to be followed by an excellent breakfast of fresh fruits, pastries, coffee, juices, choice of eggs and cold cuts and great company and a walk in the grounds. Being treated quite nicely with pleasant smiles and greeting “how can I help you”. I found the Tea House decorated with excellent pictures in black and white dating to the 19th century. No tea for me at this time, I opted for a hot dark espresso coffee.
At the Palheiro Gardens I found a tremendous variety of beautiful colors. Collections of Camellias and Bougainvillea that are perfectly set for my visual pleasure. Siting outside, enjoying a special drinks in short distance of those beautiful flowers is a special enjoyment. The beauty of the gardens is truly spectacular.
The complex, an historic place of the Count of Carvalhal, distance about15 minutes from Funchal and 20 minutes from Airport (take Exit 13 of ER 101.
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Casa Velha do Palheiro is located a Rua da Estalagem , 23, Sao Goncalo, 9060-415- Funchal. Tel 351 291790 350. It has 37 rooms a full spa, a dinner room and a bar. Close by the Palheiro Golf Course and in 2014 will celebrate its 210 years. It is operated by Relais and Chateau.
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