dant'es paradise

Dante's Paradise, Prestige ResidenceMadeira Islands 2009

Contents why Madeira ...................3Dante's Paradise...........4/5useful information......6/11yearly events.............12/15Engel & Völkers............16

why Madeira? Sub-tropical warm climateMadeira has a climate that inspires outdoor activity throughout the year. With very mild average temperatures, ranging from around 24º in the summer to 18º in the winter, it offers the ideal balance throughout the seasons. The Gulf Stream Current heats the seawater around the islands, ensuring warm temperatures of around 22º in the summer and 18º in the winter.

Amazing Natural LandscapeMadeira’s natural heritage has been officially recognized as one of the most precious landscapes in the world, with an untouched prehistoric forest – having for this reason received one of the very rare UNESCO Natural World Heritage classifications in 1999.

This proximity to nature is truly impressive, with two thirds of the island protected, discovering Madeira’s hidden core is a sensational experience. The best way to explore the mountains is by walking alongside the levada trails. These are the narrow irrigation canals that take water down from the mountains and cover over 2200 kilometers of landscape.

Assurance of security and safety

The Madeira Islands are well known as a tranquil oasis, ranking as one of the safest places to visit in the world. It’s perfectly safe to walk around at night in the city center. Hospitals are modern and comply to strict international standards, with competent and highly trained professional health personnel.

Competitive price and excellent value

Madeira has kept a good balance of high-quality services at reasonable prices. The cost of living on the island is low in comparison to other European destinations, a coffee costs about 1Euro, a taxi fare from the airport to Funchal around 25 Euro and a lunch for two without wine will be around 35 Euro.

Easy to reach

Madeira is easily accessible, with frequent and fast connections from major international airports including London, Lisbon, Paris and many more. It has a totally renovated international airport that takes over 3,5 million passengers easily, and the runway was extended in September 2000 from 1800 meters to 2781 meters, allowing for safe and flowing airline traffic.

Madeira Emotions

· Diving with manta rays and exotic fish in the marine reserves along the coast

· Canyoning, rappel, slide and more in the Laurissilva Forest.

· Peddy paper in Funchal discovering the highlights on foot

· Moonlit barbecue on the beach of Porto Santo

· Cruises and regattas along the coast of Madeira ∞ Porto Santo

· Banquets in the historical wine cellars

· Traditional barbecues in sub tropical gardens

· Tea and dancing at Reid’s Palace

· Medieval banquets and “arraial” traditional outdoor parties

Outdoor activities and Sports

· Three breathtaking golf courses – Clube de Golf Santo da Serra, Palheiro Golf, Porto Santo Golfe

· Sunbathing on the white sandy beach of Porto Santo

· Excellent water sports: Diving, big game fishing, surf, windsurf, jet ski

· Rappel, paragliding, BTT, canyoning, slide

· Bird watching

· Levada walks and trekking in the mountains

· Swimming in the warm seawater and relaxing by the poolside

· Wide choice of traditional sports – tennis, squash, cycling, gymnastics

Shopping

· Fine local embroidery can be seen and bought at their workshops

· Vintage Madeira Wine from the leading wine houses

· Numerous modern shopping malls open till late at night and on weekends

· Traditional shopping in downtown Funchal for local products

· Exotic fruits, vegetables and beautiful flowers

can be bought from Funchal market.

Dante'sParadise

In a privileged location between the sea and the sky raises an exceptional unique housing project on the island of Madeira.

Architecture and nature come together in an innovative concept of the luxury living.

CONCEPT

The entire project developed as a metaphor of Dante Alighieri's Divine Comedy. The nine levels, where the apartment blocks stand on, appear as a direct reference to the “9” circles of paradise, as well as to the nine planets of our solar system.

On the 10th level, closer to the sky, we find the parking representing the 10th “heaven”, where only light subsists. In the centre of this floor we find the “white rose”, the divine gate, defining the ritual entrance in the condominium. This sculptured element invites you in and adds simplicity and character to the entry way.

An endless paradise is only a door away.

Designed by Domus Concept, a company founded in 2007 by talented Portuguese young architect Joao Fernandes. Since then, architecture projects have been designed for public and private clients in Europe, namely Portugal, Norway and Angola, having in mind an international perspective for its work. The office has been referred to, nationally and internationally, for work developed by teams of young architects.

APARTMENTS

The apartments, a series of cliff hanging terraces adapt wisely to the surrounding area with a deep tectonic architecture. This extends the lines of the cliff face and provides a natural almost abstract work of art.

There are a combination of two bedroom, three bedroom and four bedroom units and one four bedroom Duplex. These are divided threw nine levels, with a maximum of 3apartments per floor. The uniqueness of each home, the intimate character, the large wide frontage with panoramic views and spacious suspended terraces create a unique experience of well being and fulfillment.

The development comprises of 19 luxury apartments with large terraces all projecting towards the sea. The

project also benefits from large extensive communal areas outside with a level of design directed towards the top end of luxury living.

COMMUNAL

OUTDOOR AREAS

The condominium facilities include an outdoor pool and spa integrated into a wide space of landscaped tropical gardens providing a vibrant palette of colours and textures.

The project is designed to incorporate outdoor and indoor living together molding the project and gardens together thus neutralizing boundaries between the natural surroundings and the artificial. All together, the 9 terraces simulate the "hanging gardens of Babylon."

This simple intervention removes the impact of a man-made object, through their abstraction tectonics and cosmology, reveal an artistic quality that goes beyond the basic design of the architecture itself.

Useful Information

Madeira – Location ∞ Area

Madeira Archipelago was discovered by the Portuguese in 1419, it consists of the islands of Madeira, Porto Santo and the uninhabited islands of the Selvagens and Desertas.

Situated between latitude 32o22´20“ and 33o7´50“. The surface of Madeira Island is 459 square miles (741 km²), 35 miles long and 13 miles wide. Madeira is 378 miles (608 km) from the Morocco and 620 miles (1000 km) from the European continent (1h 30 flight from Lisbon).

Political status

Madeira is an autonomous region of Portugal with ample governing powers. A great stability and impressive economic growth in the island’s economy explain the popularity of this regional government.

Population

Around 280 000 on all the islands. Half the population lives in the capital, Funchal.

Safety

Considered one of the safest destinations in the world, if you take simple basic precautions you should be just fine.

Visas

Passport required for UK visitors; Visitors coming from the European Union and members of the Shengen Treaty are granted unrestricted entry. International visitors traveling from outside the European Union should have a valid passport and should check if a Visa is required.

Climate

Subtropical. Warm in the summer (22–26ºC) and mild in the winter (17–22ºC). The water temperature is also very pleasant year round owing to the Gulf Stream influence. Moderate rainfall. Porto Santo has a dry and stable climate that can get very hot in the summer.

Clothing

The weather in Madeira is mild but in one day you can have all four seasons. It’s a good idea to bring light clothes for the many hot sunny days, but also some sweaters and a raincoat. Shoes should be casual for active days but be prepared for smart evenings as well.

Language

Portuguese, with English, French, German and Spanish widely spoken.

Time

Madeira follows Portuguese time with summer time (same as in the UK, but one hour behind in a one-month period from late September to late October).

Traveler’s Checks

Accepted at most banks.

Currency

EURO. Foreign currency is not accepted but may be exchanged at the banks.

Banks

Banks are open on weekdays from 08.30 –14.45; Foreign Exchange offices work from 9.00 –13.00 and from 14.00 to 19.00 every day except on Saturdays when they are open from 9.00 to 19.00, hotels will change money outside these times.

Credit Cards

All major cards are widely accepted.

Tipping

Hotels and restaurant bills usually include a service charge; an extra 5 –10 % or so for good service is appreciated.

Communications

The international access code for Portugal is + 351, and the regional area code is 291. The island has an advanced IT network. There are many free Wi-Fi areas in the centre of Funchal and in Vila Baleira, Porto Santo.

Electricity

220 volts; two-pin European adapters are required.

Water

Excellent and safe drinking standard in Madeira. Porto Santo uses treated seawater that is also safe to drink.

Medical care

Hospitals and health centers provide good care and assistance and follow the highest international standards. No inoculations are necessary.

Chemists

Open Monday to Friday from 9.00 to 13.00 and from 15.00 to 19.00, on Saturdays from 9.00 to 13.00. There is also information posted outside each chemist regarding which pharmacy is on duty 24 hours a day.

Customs

There are no limitations on the products leaving the island, you may need a document proving the articles are for private use if the quantity is considered excessive.

Emergency

Dial 112 for Police

Engel & Völkers Madeira / Porto Santo

Opening soon Funchal | Portugal

telm + 351.913 287 505

[email protected] www.engelvoelkers.com

mailto:[email protected]

Sea

The Port of Funchal is just as vibrant today as it was 400 hundred years ago when it was a vital stopping port on the way to the New World. All the major cruise ships regularly dock in Funchal, and during New Year’s eve as many as fourteen can be seen in the bay. Apart from the Funchal marina, there are also several new marinas along the coast, which offer an excellent place to stop and discover a different part of the island.

Roads

Madeira and Porto Santo has a totally renovated network of roads and tunnels, which make travelling on the islands fast, safe and easy. Most have been built within the last 7 years and provide quick access between city, countryside and from one attraction to another. The famous ancient trails are still there as well if you want a different experience– roads carved out of the rock, which pass under waterfalls and hug the Cliff side near the sea.

Other transportation

Madeira and Porto Santo can be discovered by helicopter, paragliding, parasailing or hang-gliding. The sea offers every means of transportation and sports you could want, from sailing yachts, catamarans, replica Columbus galleon, water-skiing, surfing, windsurfing, deep-sea diving or big game fishing. A unique way of seeing Madeira and the bay of Funchal is on the cable car, which can take up to 800 passengers per hour. Starting in the old town, the cable car slowly rises over the ancient houses, climbing higher and higher as the views become more dramatic capturing the valleys and the sparkling sea below. The cable car lands in Monte village and here as well as the wonderful gardens and church, we can find the famous toboggans, which so excited Hemingway on his visit to Madeira. The toboggans are sledge-like vehicles, which are controlled by 2 men that run alongside the sledge and make sure you don’t crash down the road or onto the oncoming traffic. The journey takes you down the steep roads to Funchal and is a must activity.

yearly events& festivalsMadeira has a vibrant cultural heritage, with festivalstaking place in most months of the year. There are majorinternational sports events, as well as small regionalcelebrations to choose from. Visitors can experienceand participate directly in these festivities, which offeran insight into Madeira’s unique personality.

New YearsNovember – January

The natural amphitheater of Funchal provides a spectacular backdrop for the fire works display which has been ranked amongst the top 5 in the world. Christmas Lights – November marks the start of the events, with the switching on of the colorful Christmas lights, all the amphitheater becomes covered in lights making a spectacular vision.

Market Night – The 23rd December is a very special night in the local calendar, when everyone heads to the market – which stays open till the early morning hours, with the fruit stalls, bars and shops all providing constant entertainment. New Years Eve – Every year the fi reworks get better as the expectation rises as well. At least a dozen cruise ships and hundreds of boats of every kind watch the fi reworks from the sea. On land there are excellent viewpoints from almost every part of the city.

CarnivalFebruary

A great street parade takes place on the Saturday evening before Carnival, with a wide variety of groups and thousands of participants competing for the coveted prize of best carnival group of the year.On Tuesday the “Cortejo Trapalhão” is a truly popular celebration, with local residents forming their hilarious troupes and parading along the main roads of Funchal with costumes.

Madeira Island OpenMarchThis is a main European Tour event, and each year brings the best up and coming golf players to the Island. During this week you can catch sight of famous names and golfing legends at the Clube de Golf Santo da Serra, which is considered one of the most spectacular courses on the Tour. This beautiful mountain course combines the ideal challenge for a thrilling event.

Flower FestivalAprilMadeira flowers are celebrated with various activities and events. Children take centre stage in the Praça do Municipio where they help to create an intricate flower display, the “wall of hope”. Next day the flower parade marches through the streets of Funchal with children and dancers dressed in elaborate costumes. Flowers are everywhere, decorating the pavements, hanging from baskets and lining the streets. Music is also a great part of this festival. Madeira famous gardens are at their finest during this timeof the year.

Atlantic FestivalJuneThis event is a celebration of music and fireworks. During this month there is an international fireworks competition, with four countries putting forward their best firework displays accompanied to synchronized music every Saturday evening. Concerts are also held throughout the island as part of the Madeira Music Festival.

Funchal JazzJuly

Famous jazz musicians from all over the world help make this festival a special highlight in the local calendar. The main concerts are staged in the beautiful Quinta Magnolia gardens, but there are also many other jazz events during this time in Funchal.

Madeira Wine Festival - September

Experience Madeira’s wine culture, with active participations in grape picking and pressing. Throughout the wine regions of the island, and specially Câmara de Lobos, traditional events take place to celebrate Madeira Wine. In Funchal you can taste specialties from the street stalls and enjoy the unique flavour of the local wine.

Madeira Wine RallyAugust

The winding roads of Madeira are the perfect setting for a thrilling rally adventure. Watch a fierce competition between national and international drivers, as they cover most of Madeira at a very fast pace.

Festa da Nossa Senhora do MonteAugust

For the local residents this is the most important religious date in the calendar. It celebrates Nossa Senhora do Monte, and is held in Monte Village. A specially beautiful candle light procession is undertaken each year to the Monte church on foot.

Columbus FestivalSeptember

This event is held in Porto Santo Island, and is dedicated to Christopher Columbus who married the daughter of the governor of Porto Santo. The festival is in Vila Baleira and includes music, theatre, exhibitions and recreations of the Portuguese Age of Discoveries.

Engel & Völkers worldwideThe Engel & Völkers Group is one of the world’s leading companies for the sale of exclusive real estate with headquarters in Hamburg, Germany. In 2007 overall commission values rose by 30% to €160,7 million, the best result to date in the company’s 30 year history. The strongest growth was recorded in the residential property division outside of Germany where revenues rose by 41,1% to a total of €51,5 million. Engel & Völkers is now represented in 27 different countries on four continents.

Engel & Völkers is expanding worldwide via its productive licensing partner system. Its success is due to specialization in sub markets and the high level of training of all highly qualified partners and employees ensuring optimum service quality.

Engel & Völkers Madeira/Porto Santo OfficeFunchal, Madeira Islands. PortugalTelm.: +351 91 328 7505e-mail: [email protected]

dant'es paradise

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