Airbnbs in Madeira has become one of the most popular accommodation choices for travellers who want comfort, authenticity, and a touch of local lifestyle during their holiday. Madeira Island is more than just a tourist hotspot, it’s a paradise of dramatic coastlines, mountain trails, charming villages, and cultural traditions. Staying in a carefully chosen Airbnb allows you to enjoy these treasures with privacy and flexibility.
Madeira isn’t only about luxury hotels or resorts. These unique Airbnbs offer everything from panoramic ocean views to traditional Madeiran charm. Whether you want a romantic escape, a group getaway, or a quiet retreat close to nature, this list of 5 hidden gem Airbnbs in Madeira will inspire your next trip.
To make the most of your stay, we highly recommend renting a car. Public transport on the island is limited, and many of these Airbnbs are located in peaceful, remote spots. With 7M Rent a Car, you can easily explore the island’s trails, beaches, and cultural sites at your own pace.
Let’s discover the five Airbnbs in Madeira that will make your stay unforgettable.
Refúgio dos Anjos
Location – Caminho da Terra da Velha n.º 10, Gaula
Why Stay Here?
This peaceful retreat in Gaula, called Refúgio dos Anjos, is perfect for travellers seeking tranquility and breathtaking ocean views. It combines modern comfort with natural surroundings, making it ideal for couples or families.
What to Do Nearby:
Near the Airbnb is Levada dos Tornos, a beautiful, easy-to-walk hiking trail, 11km long, with magnificent and relaxing views of the south coast.
This Airbnb is a short 10- to 15-minute drive from downtown Santa Cruz.
In the city center of Santa Cruz, you’ll find several cafes, pastry shops, restaurants, a playground, and the municipal market on the promenade, where you can stroll, socialize, and even enjoy a Madeiran delicacy. It is also in the center of Santa Cruz that we find Praia das Palmeiras, a pebble beach perfect for sunbathing and swimming on warmer days.
Casa Mar – Quinta Falcões do Sol
Location – Caminho dos Falcões nº17, Fajã da Ovelha
Why Stay Here?
Nestled in the west of Madeira, Casa Mar offers privacy and dramatic cliffside views. It’s a dreamy escape for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking peace away from busy towns.
What to Do Nearby:
Near the Airbnb is Paul do Mar, a 13-minute drive away. It’s a traditional fishing village with a long promenade, charming streets, bars, beaches, and seafood restaurants ideal for sampling Madeiran cuisine.
On the other hand, just 16 minutes from the Airbnb, we find Jardim do Mar, another remote village ideal for visiting, strolling along the seafront, sitting on the terraces of cozy cafes, and enjoying the magnificent ocean views. Also 16 minutes from the Airbnb, but on the other side, is the most visited lighthouse on Madeira Island, the Ponta do Pargo Lighthouse. It’s a magical place, perfect for watching the sunset overlooking the endless Atlantic Ocean. In addition to these spots, you can visit the viewpoints and levada walks in the area where the Airbnb is located.
Vista Seixal
Location – Caminho António Geremias de Sousa nº8, Seixal
Why Stay Here?
This gem lives up to its name: the view. The Airbnb Vista Seixal is a privileged and remote location, just a few minutes from Seixal’s iconic black sand beach. If you want to wake up in a paradise away from it all and enjoy Madeira’s wild north coast, this Airbnb is unbeatable.
What to Do Nearby:
One of Madeira’s rare black sand beaches, as mentioned above, is Praia do Seixal. It’s a small beach ideal for swimming and photography. Just 15 minutes from Seixal Beach are the Porto Moniz natural pools, famous for their natural volcanic lava walls and perfect for a relaxing dip.
In the center of Porto Moniz, you can also visit the Madeira Aquarium, with over 90 native species spread across 12 exhibition tanks. Staying on the north side of the island makes it easier to access the Laurissilva Forest trails, with lush vegetation and beautiful waterfalls. However, if you prefer, try Madeira wine and cuisine in small, authentic taverns and restaurants, enjoying typical Madeira dishes.
Villa Bahari
Location – Estrada de São Lourenço nº31, Caniçal
Why Stay Here?
Perfect for groups or families, Villa Bahari combines luxury and location. Overlooking the ocean, near the eastern tip of Madeira, this villa is close to some of the island’s most famous trails, such as PR 8 – Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço.
What to Do Nearby:
Although this Airbnb is in a remote area, you can always visit the fishing village of Caniçal and enjoy seafood and fresh fish at the local restaurants near the promenade. Also in Caniçal, you can visit a cultural highlight of the area, the Whale Museum, stroll along the promenade, or even take a dip in the pools or sea at the Caniçal beach complex.
Alternatively, if you prefer a sandy beach, in addition to the black-sand Prainha do Caniçal, you can head to downtown Machico to sunbathe and swim in the bay of imported sand, perfect for a swim or a stroll along the seashore. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to stay closer to your accommodation, you can always head to the Quinta Grande Marina and book a whale and dolphin-watching cruise with the local company Madeira Sea Emotions.
Casa Velha D. Fernando
Location – Caminho Dom Fernando nº15, Ribeira Brava
Why Stay Here?
Casa Velha D. Fernando is a cozy, rustic-style house with views of the surrounding mountains. It is a wonderful choice for couples seeking authenticity and proximity to both the north and south of the island.
What to Do Nearby:
When staying in the municipality of Ribeira Brava, you are closer to Ilha das Aves, in Campanário, a small oasis full of exotic and colourful birds. Then you can go to Cabo Girão and visit the highest suspended viewpoint in Europe.
During your stay at this Airbnb, you can also go to the center of Ribeira Brava, stroll through the streets, visit the Madeira Ethnographic Museum and the Church, as well as the Ribeira Brava Market, where you can buy fresh fruit and vegetables. You can also stroll along the extensive esplanade and visit the local restaurants. If the weather is good, you can go to the beach at the Ribeira Brava beach complex or Ponta do Sol beach.
The municipality of Ponta do Sol is known for its sunsets, cosy cafes, typical restaurants, and pleasant atmosphere, as well as for the Anjos waterfall and the narrow streets in the center of the village. You can also visit the Madeira Banana Museum (BAM) and learn about the history of this typical fruit of the region and its economic impact.
Why Stay in one of the Airbnbs in Madeira?
Choosing one of the Airbnbs in Madeira offers more than just a place to sleep. It allows you to:
- Experience authentic local hospitality.
- Stay in unique, often secluded locations.
- Enjoy more space and flexibility than hotels.
- Cook your own meals with local ingredients from Madeira’s markets.
Pros and Cons of Airbnbs
Pros of Airbnbs:
- Privacy and personalised stays.
- Unique locations (mountains, cliffs, traditional villages).
- Often better for groups or families.
Cons of Airbnbs:
- Limited on-site services compared to hotels.
- Requires more independence (self-check-in, cooking, car needed).
Why Renting a Car with 7M Rent a Car
Madeira is full of hidden gems, from levada trails to coastal villages, but many are off the beaten path. Renting a car ensures you won’t miss them.
With 7M Rent a Car, you’ll enjoy:
- Easy pick-up and drop-off in Funchal and Madeira Airport.
- Vehicles suitable for mountain drives and narrow village streets.
- Affordable options for families, friends, couples, or solo travellers.
- Freedom to design your own itinerary around the Airbnbs above.
Staying in an Airbnb in Madeira or nearby towns gives you the chance to experience the island like a local while enjoying privacy, comfort, and unforgettable views. Each of the five Airbnbs highlighted, from Refúgio dos Anjos in Gaula to Casa Velha D. Fernando in Ribeira Brava, connects you with trails, beaches, and authentic Madeiran life.
Whether you’re travelling for romance, adventure, or family time, staying in Madeira in an Airbnb is the perfect choice. Combine it with the freedom of a rental car from 7M Rent a Car, and your island journey will be effortless and full of discovery.
Discover more about How to Rent a Car in Madeira: 10 Essential Tips in our guide.
