Top 5 Reasons to Visit Alpino Atlantico in Madeira

Perched on the cliffside with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, Alpino Atlantico is the perfect place for an Ayurvedic-focused wellness escape. The hotel is located in Canico de Baixo, which is a quiet residential area yet only 15 minutes drive from the bustling capital, Funchal. I loved how peaceful the hotel was and I could happily have admired the vistas all day long! Madeira has so much to discover, so make sure you take some time to head out - maybe walking, kayaking or trying the famous wicker basket sled ride.

Alpino Atlantico has two in-house Ayurvedic doctors who trained in Kerala (the birthplace of this ancient healing practice), so have brought over a wealth of experience and knowledge to Madeira. 

All the therapists have ongoing Ayurvedic training, which is evident during the excellent spa treatments, yoga, meditation and Qi Gong classes. A very popular programme is the Panchakarma programme for those looking to make serious health changes through detox and weight-loss - what better way to invest in yourself?  

It's vegetarian Ayurveda cuisine all the way here, which is prepared using only the freshest ingredients and seasonal produce. Many of the herbs and spices are from the hotel's own herb garden which is a neat touch. The hot food is suitable for all three dosha types, so you can choose exactly what you like from the buffet and there's a wide choice, especially at breakfast. I tended to have lots of small courses as it was all so delicious and I couldn't quite decide what to have first! 

This was a real highlight for me - honestly, the views are amazing. Every day you can join the group yoga and Qi Gong classes, which are usually early in the morning. The studio has floor-to-ceiling windows and panoramic views of the ocean, so when you're practising yoga you can look out and feel very inspired and 'woken' by the sunrise.

You have your own flask (with your name on it!) filled with herbal tea which you collect from the spa daily, so you can keep hydrated throughout the day. Herbal tea is an important element in Ayurveda - it aids digestion, cleanses your body and calms your nervous system and it also tastes delicious. Make sure you take it to the restaurant at dinner time so that they can re-fill it ready for you to collect the next day.

If Lisa's inspired you, find out more about this Madeiran escape and its wellness programmes below.