When you get as much sunshine as Madeira enjoys every year, you would be a fool to design a home without large windows. Thankfully, the brain behind this apartment in the centre of Funchal – renowned Portuguese architect Raúl Ramalho – was on the same wavelength and as a result, the space is flooded with natural light and blessed with wonderful views out over the city. The interior has also been recently renovated and the funky decor wouldn't look out of place in some of Europe's more discerning cities — the sleek grey kitchen looks particularly inviting, we must say. When you're ready to explore, start with Funchal Catherdral, only five minutes away by foot, before heading along the cobblestone streets of the Old Town and finishing up with a well-earned drink at a seafront bar along the promenade.

Home truths:
*A cot, high chair and baby's tub can be provided if required
*There's a private parking spot available, but parking here is only suitable for vehicles under 1.8m
*There's an aerobus stop within a three-minute walk of the home – alternatively, your host can help you arrange transfers to and from the airport