Be seduced by the exotic luxury of this unique retreat – the perfect place for an unforgettable romantic getaway.
Set high above Madeira’s capital city of Funchal, you’ll find Choupana Hills Resort and Spa. Each of the individual bungalows has a spacious balcony equipped with twin loungers where you can relax drinking in panoramic views of the city, harbour and the Atlantic Ocean beyond.
This is the coolest, most exotic and most luxurious hotel on the island, far from the traditional elegance of the ancient quintas. The bungalows are crafted from basalt stone sourced locally (it’s what the island is made from) and dark Brazilian wood, set on the steep hillside among eucalyptus trees.
The oriental-style décor includes immense canopied beds perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape, and when the concierge shows us to our bungalow, every surface had been scattered with flowers. The bathroom is fitted with a power shower, with a window at head height so that we can enjoy views of the distant harbour while freshening up.When we tear ourselves away from our new home, it’s to discover the outdoor pool glimmering in the sunlight, inlaid with mosaic green and gold tiles, and surrounded by palm trees and birds-of-paradise.
Gigantic lizards dream on the rough stone walls, and glistening dragonflies flit overhead while the wealthy clientele top up their tans on the many loungers, with staff at hand with extra towels or anything else you could need.
There is also an indoor pool, with a jet system that transforms it into a huge Jacuzzi, and a spa offers revitalizing facials, algae wraps and masks, aromatherapy and reflexology. However, if you’ve spent all your euros on the room, indulge in the complimentary Turkish steam room and sauna instead.
The Pool Bar is good value as well, serving a range of healthy isotonic drinks to revive you after your treatment, as well as a range of light meals.
While we are relaxing there, enjoying the peace, a pair of dishevelled-looking hikers appear, having stumbled in through the gates that lead from one of the island’s many levadas. These waterways crisscross the island, providing pleasant walking routes as well as irrigation.
The waitress hurries over to inform them that access to the hotel is only for guests, but takes pity on their hunger and lets them stay for lunch. This is clearly an anomaly, and makes us realise how secluded we are here.
After our meal, we take a stroll along the hilly paths of the resort’s terrain, stepping aside whenever a golf cart passes, transporting guests back to their bungalows or delivering goodies from the room service menu.
Choupana Hills Resort and Spa
Travessa do Largo da Choupana 9060-348
Tel: +351 291 20 60 20
www.choupanahills.com