frequently asked questions
Direct answers about Casa Amani: the house, the location, and what to expect.
Where exactly is Casa Amani?+
Casa Amani is in Arco da Calheta, a village on the south-west coast of Madeira island, Portugal. It's about 50 minutes by car (48 km) from Madeira International Airport (FNC), and Calheta beach and marina are 6 km away, roughly a five-minute drive.
How far is the airport?+
Madeira International Airport (FNC) is 48 km from the house, approximately 50 minutes by car. Funchal is about 30 minutes.
Is Casa Amani suitable for remote work?+
Yes. Both bedrooms have a desk, and the guest bedroom has an external monitor that can be connected to a laptop. Free Wi-Fi runs throughout the villa and terrace, and stays of one week or longer are encouraged. Madeira is a recognised digital nomad destination, with the Digital Nomad Village in nearby Ponta do Sol.
Is there a pool?+
Yes. A private 7-metre pool set into the terrace, with the option of heating (available at extra cost). It faces the Atlantic.
How many people does Casa Amani sleep?+
Up to six. The two bedrooms each have a king-size bed (the guest bedroom king can be split into two single mattresses), and two single beds can be set up on the lower level for a fifth and sixth guest.
Are pets allowed?+
No. Casa Amani does not accept pets.
What's the minimum stay?+
Seven nights. The house is designed for slow stays, weeks rather than weekends.
Is there parking?+
Yes. A private garage with space for two cars, directly connected to the house.
What's the Wi-Fi like?+
Fibre broadband throughout the villa and terrace. Fast enough for video calls, large uploads, and streaming simultaneously.
Are there restaurants within walking distance?+
The nearest bar (Monteiros) and restaurant (Melton's Kitchen) are about 1 km from the house. Calheta's marina restaurants are a 5-minute drive. A car is recommended for most dining.
Do I need a car?+
Yes, for most things. Arco da Calheta is a hillside village; the nearest shops, restaurants, and beaches are a short drive away. Car hire on the island is straightforward and affordable.
What's the climate like in winter?+
Mild. Daytime temperatures on the south-west coast typically range from 17 to 22°C in winter, with more sunshine hours than Funchal. Madeira doesn't have a cold season in the way Northern Europe does. It has a quieter season.
Is the house family-friendly?+
Yes. A cot and high chair are available on request. The pool is unfenced, so children should be supervised. The lower room with two single beds works well for older children or teenagers.
Can I work from the house full-time?+
Yes. That's what it's built for. Dedicated desks in both bedrooms, an external monitor in the guest bedroom, fibre Wi-Fi, and a time zone (GMT/WET) that overlaps comfortably with the UK, most of Europe, and the US East Coast morning.
How do I book?+
We currently take bookings exclusively through Airbnb. You can check availability and reserve there directly, or tap any 'Stay with us' button on this site. Casa Amani is also listed on Booking.com, VRBO, OurMadeira, and Casai through our property manager, but for a consistent experience we direct guests to the Airbnb listing from this site.
Is breakfast included?+
No. Casa Amani is self-catering. The kitchen is fully equipped with an induction hob, oven, dishwasher, and espresso machine. A private chef can be arranged on request.
Is there air conditioning and heating?+
Air conditioning throughout the house, and the same units can be set to heat when needed. There is no separate central heating system, but the south-west coast's mild climate rarely calls for one.
What's the nearest supermarket?+
There is a small local shop in Arco da Calheta. For a full supermarket, Pingo Doce in Calheta is about 5 minutes by car.
Are towels and linens provided?+
Yes. All bed linen, bath towels, and pool towels are provided and changed weekly.
What are the check-in and check-out times?+
Check-in is from 16:00. Check-out is by 11:00. Early check-in or late check-out may be possible depending on availability. Ask when you book.
Can't find what you need? stay@casa-amani.com.