Casa Velha Do Palheiro, Madeira
Lunch on the clubhouse terrace overlooking Funchal and the Atlantic ocean
CASA VELHA DO PALHEIRO, MADEIRA
PERFECT FOR:
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Golfing Groups: With three golf clubs and a semi-tropical climate Madeira is a dream location for a group holiday. Casa Velha has a new wing suitable for those groups requiring twin rooms.
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Romantic Breaks: One of the world's loveliest islands is an idyllic destination for a romantic holiday.
Golf in a garden, with a touch of romance
There's something about islands that’s good for the soul. Island folk, almost without exception, have elevated relaxation to an art form. Their cuisine is usually eclectic, often wildly inventive; there are oodles of recreational activities, not to mention the beach and the sun. Add a touch of exclusivity to the above and you’ve painted a word picture of Madeira.
LOCATION
The island is in the Atlantic on the latitude with Tenerife and four hours’ flying time from London and most southern European capitals. Some 70 per cent of the land mass is protected national park, heavily wooded and cascading with flowers. Not for nothing is it known as the Garden Island of the Atlantic and it’s a preview of Heaven for romantics, artists and walkers, the latter encouraged by a network of trails. Click here to see a map of Madeira.
THE CLIMATE
The climate is agreeable: winters are mild and perfect for golf and walking and in summer the temperatures hover around 25 to 27C. It can be hot, but not oppressively so and, being an island, there’s usually a cooling sea breeze. Click here to check average weather conditions throughout the year in Madeira.
THE RESORT
The island is home to Palheiro, one of the great golf resorts, a haven of excellence set in 130 hill top hectares with views of Funchal, the capital, and the ocean beyond.
THE HOTEL
Overlooking the golf course and set in the grounds of a world famous garden is Casa Velha do Palheiro, the former country house that’s become a boutique hotel of world renown and a member of Relais & Chateaux. Opened in 1995, it has 37 guest rooms, a library/morning room, a lounge bar, a sitting room and a games room. Nearby is a swimming pool and a sauna/steam and fitness room.
THE GOLF
The golf course, too, is a beauty, in all senses of the term. Designed by the renowned American architect Cabell Robinson and opened in 1993, it is frequently the venue for the Madeira Open, it’s pretty as a picture, in first class order and great fun. You could play here every day for a week and not be bored.
It has been written that Madeira is one of the world’s most beautiful places in which to play golf. See Palheiro and you’ll say Amen to that… And wait until you see the clubhouse.
There are other excellent golf courses in the vicinity - click here to read our review of the other noteworthy golf courses in Madeira.
NON-GOLFING ACTIVITIES
Other facilities include a motor yacht moored in Funchal harbour that’s available for whale and dolphin watching and deep sea fishing. Funchal, the capital is only minutes away, a fascinating place to wander, for shopping, dining and sherry tasting.
TIPS TO ENHANCE YOUR HOLIDAY
Getting There
The international airport/port is at Funchal, only minutes away by taxi. Connections are available from most European cities.
Getting Around
The hotel has a mini coach service for getting to the golf clubhouse and into Funchal and there is an extensive network of taxis for sightseeing and shopping.
Packing Tips & Dress Code
The required dress for hotel dining is semi-formal or smart casual. Don’t forget the swimsuits and if you are a walker bring your best boots. The island has miles of designated trails and is idyllic for hiking in the national park. Smart casual dress is also required for golf.
Currency
The island is a Portuguese protectorate and thus part of the European Union where the Euro is the accepted currency. For current rates of exchange, click here.
Language Spoken
Portuguese.
English is widely spoken in Madeira, and you should have no problems speaking English in the hotel or in most tourist restaurants and shops in Funchal. However, should you wish to impress your hosts, you could learn a few key Portuguese phrases before you go. Click here for details.
Time zone
Similar to the UK: that is, BST in summer and GMT in winter.
Dialing code
The country code for Madeira is +351-291 (then add the local extension).
HOW TO BOOK YOUR VACATION
Request a Quotation or Use Our Recommended Golf Tour Operator
PGT can negotiate discounted rates and bonuses for our readers. Simply contact us giving details of preferred dates and your requirements and we will contact the resort on your behalf.
Alternatively you could
Book Through A Tour Operator
If you require a total holiday package including flights, transfers, accommodation and golf reservations PGT will recommend the tour operator who serves the resort or destination of your choice and negotiate any possible discount available.
Travel Money
To order Euros from Travelex at the guaranteed best price availabe in the UK - at 0% commission, and with free airport pickup click here.