Perola, a Home in Madeira

Balbina met us and familiarized us with the property which was really nice. Although a bit of a hike into Funchal center ( .9 miles all downhill), it was comfortable and user friendly. Parking in the garage underneath was priceless. There are not any restaurants "right around the corner" necessitating a walk (or Bolt) into town. Was not worth driving into town and dealing with traffic/parking. The veranda was superb with a lovely view of the city and we ate numerous meals there. There was a guide book for the property which was useful.

The walk back from town could be a little grind because it's all uphill and fairly steep. But my brother and I (we're both around 70 and in pretty good shape) toughed it out often and never felt threatened or at risk. Also there was an issue with hot water in the second bathroom and kitchen sink where it would just go cold for no apparent reason. The master bath shower was consistently hot although trying not to soak the floor was a daily challenge.

The apartment has 2 double bedrooms and 2 separate bathrooms, one is an en-suite and the other is the family bathroom, which is exactly what we wanted. The living area is good, and has a comfortable sofa and a large TV. It is an open plan living area with a dining table and chairs. The kitchen is reasonably well kitted out. We did not cook in the flat, but it seemed to have the essentials. The balcony was lovely, with a reasonable view. It is not pointing directly towards the sea, but the sea is very well visible. It is about a 20 minute walk downhill to town. We did walk it back once as well, it's not too taxing for a reasonably fit person. We did mostly get the bolt back because the yellow taxi drivers had problems finding the location.

There were quite a lot of dogs barking in the neighborhood and there was a family with a baby above the flat. I could hear the baby crying in the night above the master bedroom.

It was a great place, spacious and had absolutely everything you need. Amazing view and great location to the bus stops, highway, supermarket, also walkable distance to the center. The host was very nice and welcoming.

Very large, very comfortable flat with two good size bathrooms.

This is not in the least a criticism, but the flat is in a very residential area, a good 20-25 minutes walk from coffee shops/bars/restaurants etc (except there is a supermarket 5-6 min away). The historical centre is over 35 min., downhill going down and a heart-thumping steep uphill walk coming back (and I am a good trekker). Just be advised.