Hi- we were in Madeira for the first time 2 weeks ago and had some help from this forum in this thread-
http://www.holidaytruths.co.uk/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=113731
Hotel review of Pestana Carlton on hotel review link at top of page.
The toboggan ride was really good fun, but don't advise walking back into into town- it's very steep and much further than it looks!
We didn't find it particularly cheap, especially with the poor exchange rate. Hotel prices were obviously a lot dearer than bars in town. The old town restaurants, between the market and the big yellow fort, seemed reasonaby priced, and there was plenty of choice in the harbour.
Strawberry world run the same trips as the package tour operators, but cheaper.
We really enjoyed an easy levada walk (these were same price whether booked through Strawberry world, hotel or rep) and a walk along the new promenade from the lido. The market was very good too- flowers, food, crafts etc. We didn't get to the north of the island, so will just have to go back again!
kate

thanks kate will follow the link..we always like to have something to do in the evening is this a new promenade that has been built?we are staying at the porto mare hotel..did you stay near there?

Hi Ya,

If you are staying in Funchal take the Rodeste service bus to Porto Moniz, this goes through the mountains, spend the day at Porto Moniz until the 4 oclock bus which goes back the other way to Funchal, in all a very reasonable and enjoyable day out seeing a lot of the island. at a fraction of the tour operators charges.

Enjoy Madeira we certainly did but we made the mistake of staying in the middle of the island, Funchal is the place to stay.

Enjoy,

Dave

Hi clarka, we were further along the road towards Funchal from you.
http://www.madeira-web.com/PagesUK/funmap.html
It looks like you are right at the start of the new promenade- though you might call it more of a cliff walk than a promenade! Perhaps better in the daytime when you can appreciate the flowers and views.
kate

thanks kate for info and link to map most helpful..just 3 weeks to go now not sure how much to try and do in a week