The coastal areas of Madeira have long been popular with overseas visitors but head inland and the island is just as appealing.
That’s certainly the case if you elect to take your HOT Holiday in the sun in the resort of Santo da Serra, which sits in the hills towards the North East of the island – around half an hour from the capital Funchal.
The major selling point of the resort without any doubt is the golf course that for many years was the home of the Madeira Island Open.
If you’ve got the clubs with you then the 27 hole Santo de Serra Golf Course is somewhere you’ll want to spend plenty of time but the perfectly trimmed greens are far from the only attraction.
For a start, the village itself is well worth visiting so you can admire the historical old buildings that surround the village square whilst relaxing with a glass of wine of enjoying some traditional Madeiran cuisine.
You’ll also be able to take in some of the best views on the island, with the chance to gaze out across the Atlantic Ocean on a clear day.
Within easy reach of the village you’ll find wide open parks where you can take a stroll surrounded by wildlife or can head off the beaten track somewhat on a network of hiking trails that allow you to fully embrace the scenic beauty of the island.
Should you want to explore wider Madeira, then you can head for the capital to explore the old streets and historical sites like the cathedral and botanical gardens, whilst the likes of Monte’s famous toboggan runs and some of the best beaches on the island are also just a short drive away.
Santo de Serra Golf Course
In total there are 27 holes at the Santo de Serra Golf Course, which is arguably one of the most picturesque courses that you could wish to play anywhere in Europe. Redesigned in 1991 by leading golf architect Robert Trent Jones Sr., the course has been featured on the PGA European Tour and has tee options to cater for experts and casual players alike.
Parque Ribeira Primeira
Take a stroll through the surroundings of the Parque Ribeira Primeira and you’ll be able to take in the peaceful beauty of the Madeiran countryside and could even try your hand at fishing in the various lakes. Get lucky and land a catch and you can have it cooked for you in one of the restaurants.
Walk the levadas
Madeira is home to a network of aqueducts known as levadas that run across the countryside. Head out of Santo de Serra and you’ll soon come across these levadas, which will help to guide you through the stunning scenery to embrace some of the best views to be found anywhere on the island.
Traditional cuisine
Santo de Serra isn’t a big place but there are various restaurants within the village where you can sample a selection of different dishes that give a flavour of Madeira – including espada, a signature fish dish for which the island is famous.
Just contact us at 01332 920 171 and we will make the perfect arrangement for you.