Funchal, Eden Mar Hotel

Madeira is a beautiful island. Don't go if you're after a beach holiday as it doesn't have any, but it does have some amazing volcanic countryside and lovely weather. The Eden Mar hotel is part of a larger resort, but it is well equipped with a selection of pools, a spa, and several restaurants and bars. Staff were generally lovely, but when problems (such as rooms not being ready for several hours after arrival, and then the hotel losing baggage) did occur they seemed entirely unapproachable.

Food in the hotel was lovely, although sometimes of limited selection. Fish and beef are major Madeiran foods, but don't expect shellfish as there are no shallow water areas to support them.

The people are generally friendly, but the timeshare sales people are some of the most persistent in the world, and most tour operators are tied into the same industry, including it seems the holiday reps. However, once you get past the sales pitch you find a place with lots to offer and plenty to do.

The walks were spectacular, and ranged from very easy to very, very challenging.