Author a fan of Funchal

Travel guide writer Arthur Bolt has expressed his affection for Funchal, the capital of Portugal's Madeira islands, saying that the location is a relaxing place to take a holiday.

Speaking to the Telegraph, Mr Bolt said that the city has a "gentleness" that instils a sense of calm in its visitors.

"This has partly to do with the old-fashioned charm of the inhabitants; partly with mildness of climate," he explained.

"And even though traffic can at times be hectic, escape to wild mountain walks or rampantly colourful sub-tropical gardens takes just a matter of minutes."

The author also waxed lyrical about the wine that can be enjoyed in Funchal, saying that the "real thing" can only be found by visiting Madeira itself.

"One sniff of a nutty, dry sercial, or a rich, aged bual and I'm transported back to Madeira immediately," he enthused.

Madeira is situated in the Atlantic Ocean off the south-western tip of Portugal, close to the Canary Islands.

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