Solar da Bica, Madeira Island, Portugal

The "Solar da Bica" is the result of a dream which the owners, Joel and Fernanda, born in São Vicente, had of sharing the beauty of the site with others.

They wished to receive those keen to enjoy a spectacular, rural landscape where the surrounding peacefulness and splendour allow visitors to regain their strength to face the agitation of their daily lives.

With much effort and dedication over a number of years, they rebuilt a house with an architecture which is typical of Madeira.

The name "Solar da Bica" comes from the characteristics of the place and the house itself.

The property is next to a brook which, in the past, supplied drinking water to the villagers through a waterspout (bica in Portuguese) and was also used for washing clothes.

The Portuguese word "solar" is used to describe a house, belonging to wealthy aristocratic families, similar to a manor house but a little smaller.

The "Solar da Bica" is situated in a romantic, rustic and idyllic site which is itself in the middle of the largest area of ancient forest known as Laurissilva,. This specific kind of forest is considered by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. From the "SOLAR DA BICA" the uniqueness and natural beauty of the Laurissilva forest may be explored and prehistoric plants may be observed in a protected environment.

We invite you, either on foot or by car, to experience the amazingly picturesque scenery, directly and in its natural state.

Simultaneously, you may visit the limestone mines and lime kilns which are about 1 km from the "Solar da Bica' " and which were, in the past, important places for the extraction of mineral resources.

The building, with modern architecture, looks entirely in place in the oldest and most luxuriant landscape of the site and provides a functional setting for rest and leisure.

There is an inside, heated swimming pool, with a gymnasium, sauna and solarium around a central patio made with a centrepiece of volcanic rock flagstones.

Lovers of grilled food have a fully equipped kitchen at their disposal with a traditional fireplace, tables and chairs which afford a welcoming area for socialising.

The communal area is based around an old press. It overlooks the valley and the tops of the mountains, which constitute the spectacular views that the windows provide.

Children have a place here to play, and adults to have a drink or simply enjoy some socialising.

A wood burning fireplace, for use on cooler days, makes the "Solar da Bica' even more welcoming.

Advise about arrival time.

The Check in time is from 14:00 until 20:00 and the check out time is until 12:00pm

Pay cash on arrival.