Located in Island of Madeira, Arco da Calheta

Arco da Calheta is situated on the south coast of Madeira, about half an hour’s drive from Funchal. The south coast has the most sun and the least rain on the island. The locals reckon that Arco da Calheta has the best micro-climate of all! It’s a quiet location – you are more likely to hear the neighbours’ dogs and chickens than traffic.

You reach the house along a little road (Caminho do Serrado) that winds past the chapel. The room downstairs provides lounge, dining and kitchen areas. The walls are very thick stone – they are over 150 years old, part of the original cottage. This keeps the house cool in the summer, and warm in the winter. The kitchen / dining room is equipped with a fridge freezer, dish-washer, gas hob, and multi-purpose microwave/oven. Outside the house is the terrace and pool. The pool is newly refurbished and is about 5 metres wide and 8 metres long; the depth is about 1.5 metres. There are two bedrooms upstairs. Both open on to the balcony, which faces south, giving stunning views over the sea and surrounding mountains. You can sit at the table on the balcony in the sun all day long. You can use the shutters to keep the heat out of the bedrooms in the summer. If you want to bake or grill, then there is also a barbeque outside!

Satellite TV with some English channels. There is a put up bed for an extra teenager and cot for a baby. The pool is newly refurbished and has solar heating. The following is from Louise who rented in January We stayed in this cottage for New Year 2008/9. The cottage is in a lovely position overlooking the sea and away from all the crowds whilst in a residential area. Funchal is less than 35 minutes away by car and Calhetta Beach is delightful. Madeira is a beautiful island so a car is necessary to really explore it. The bedrooms are very comfortable with lots of bedlinen and towels available. The terrace and patio were fabulous even though we didn't have the best weather and the downstairs area was nicely set out and the kitchen well resourced. The pool was glorious! The whole house is very clean. There are local shops and a pharmacy within walking distance. Ezeikel was extremely helpful even though we arrived late on a Saturday night. I hope that we will be able to return for another visit in the near future. Also if you are in Madeira at New Year go to Funchal on New Year's Eve for the fireworks -they were superb, even my father who we'd dragged along with us was stunned and amzed by them, I would highly recommend this cottage to my family and friends (and have). The cottage was great value compared to a hotel and having your own pool is a total luxury." Latest review--- Review Rating : 5/5 "A piece of paradise " "Having travelled other parts of Europe, Madeira for us has been the most memorable and enjoyable. With two energetic children, we wanted somewhere for us to de-stress from our normal hectic lifestyle while the kids have fun. Casa da Pedra certainly did just that. The property for us was outstanding a true home from home feel with the added bonus of a beautiful outdoor pool, this was well used as the weather was superb. The property was very clean and well maintained and sits within the village of Arco de Calheta amongst local residents and within walking distance to local shops and cafes. While some of the true locals spoke little English they were certainly very friendly and welcoming. Nevertheless, in the main areas such as Calheta itself, it was very easy to converse. Travelling the Madeira roads were challenging on times but it added to the fun of exploring a fabulous island. It would be wise not to drive a big vehicle but it must have plenty of power to handle the steep winding roads (tracks) and get ready to use your breaks on the way down! Navigating around the island for us was easy and enjoyable. The atmosphere generally is very relaxed and easy going and as you head up to the highest peaks particularly through the wooded areas, the smell of eucalyptus trees and flowers are amazing along with the views. If you are looking for a get away from it all holiday but like to soak up local culture as well as enjoying amazing walks, this is definitely the location to do it. The high lights for us were listening to the whales calling in the evening, watching the dolphins show off in front of a crowd, exploring beautifully and scented laveda walks and just taking it easy, just what the Doctor orders!! We will definately be going back and staying at Casa da Pedra and would recommend it to anyone I see."

Sleeps up to 4, Own Pool, Sea View

	Pricing Information The fee per week is £400 with peak periods at £525. Changeover day is flexible. Monday flights are at a premium, contact owner for exact dates