Madeira?

[Emu2005]

I'm thinking about going to Madeira for a week in July, just wondering if anyone has been and if it's nice? I'm going with my mum, just really want somewhere nice, quiet and hot enough. Although wouldn't mind a bit of shopping! Has anyone been? What do people think? Many thanks in advance :-)

[anniebird]

It is a beautiful island and the people are very friendly. Funchal has some lovely shops. There are no beaches so make sure you get a place with a swimming pool. Take the toboggan ride from Monte down the hill - it is great fun. You can also walk along the levadas if you feel energetic. Try eating Espada (Scabbard Fish) and Espetata (Meat on a Skewer). The weather is not as hot as places like Spain but it is a very pleasant climate. I have enjoyed my holidays there.

[Dee Sa]

its great for a "laid back" quiet holiday.I totally agree with anniebird's comments, there are wild flowers even orchids growing on the side of the road, not in Funchal but as you go up towards higher ground.
Its cheaper to hire a car than do the coach trips though.
The botanical gardens are worth a trip too [ you cab do this after the toboggan ride, all leather goods worth buying also hand embroidery stuff i.e. tablecloths.
Locals very polite and friendly, again agree try the meat on a skewer and the fish is good.We stayed at a hotel on the outskirts of Funchal with pool and a shopping mall underneath.
Avoid overpriced "touristy" restaurantsand go for the small cafes patronised by the locals.
Have a nice holiday.

[Emu2005]

Thanks for your answers, it sounds like a lovely place. Just wondering if it will be hot enough? Most of the week we'll probably be lounging by the pool will it be warm enough for that do you think?

[anniebird]

It will be warm enough for sunbathing. I preferred the climate as the heat is high enough for comfort but not the overpowering heat that Spain etc sometimes gets.

[Breezy23]

You will love it. Take a look at the Strawberry World website for Madeira to get some great info and photos. Have been 3 times at differing times of the year, always warm/hot.

[KARL]

All but in Jan-Mar it is as warm or warmer than the weather described as hot in the UK and even in those months certainly as hot as that which people say makes sleeping difficult. Anyone from the UK should find it entirely satisfactory, although most people seem to apply totally different standards when outside the country. It is a place I have been to, like very much and intend to return to every two years.