Its lovely location on the northern side of Madeira Island, in the São Vicente valley that forms part of the renowned Laurissilva Forest - a World Heritage Site - ensures that visitors can soak in the magical atmosphere of Nature at its very best. Although capital city Funchal is only 20 kms away, it really is another world, one where birdsong and the heady scent of herbs wafting on the breeze are the order of the day.