Hotel PortoBay Serra Golf, Santo António Da Serra, Madeira

You're on an inland plateau in the east of the island, 15 minutes from the airport and 30 minutes from Funchal. This is a quiet, rural area set at 1,864ft, so temperatures are noticeably cooler than on the coast. A short walk gets you to the small town of Santo António Da Serra with shops and restaurants. The hotel is right by the 27-hole Santo da Serra Golf course which offers guests a free pick-up. Clube Equestre da Madeira, a short drive away, has horse riding.

By plane: there are direct flights to Madeira from London and Manchester (4 hours). The hotel is a 15-minute drive from the airport. Free parking on-site. Book flights to Madeira.

The colourfully-painted main house with its grand tower and tiled roof will have you reaching for your camera on arrival. Once a family home, its interiors have been converted into an inviting lounge and dining room with period features including fireplaces and wooden floors. Most accommodation and leisure facilities are in an adjacent modern building that fits in harmoniously.

There is a small heated indoor pool with a jacuzzi and sauna that is a boon if the weather is poor. Spa treatments are available if booked in advance, and guests have use of a gym, free bikes and a TV lounge with games. Golfers can store their equipment in a dedicated store by the car park.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Gardens
• Swimming pool
• Gym
• Wellness centre
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi

There are 18 standard rooms on two levels in a modern block adjoining the main house (there is no lift). Another two superior rooms and a suite are in the older building, reached by a spiral wooden staircase. The décor favours light woods and autumnal hues, the compact bathrooms have a combined bath and shower and heated towel rail.

Room types: Standard Room, Superior Room, Suite

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with Rituals toiletries, bathrobe, tea and coffee facilities, TV, free Wi-Fi

The à la carte Avó Micas restaurant (avó is Portuguese for grandmother) has a cheerful air. It serves decent homestyle dishes, including vegetarian options such as 'field soup' and stuffed aubergine. Most guests book half-board as you won't find a better dinner without getting in the car. Breakfast is also served here, a modest buffet with cooked dishes to order.

Avó Micas: buffet breakfasts and à la carte dinners. Mains include traditional beef skewers and tuna steak. Open daily for breakfast and dinner, plus lunch at weekends. Mains from €13.