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1. FORGET MONACO, WELCOME TO MADEIRA!
THREE DESIGN HOTELS™ MEMBERS BRING GLAMOUR TO THE ISLAND
Berlin, 14 September 2009 – Toss the orthopaedic footwear and bring on the Manolos! Madeira may once have
been a destination for primarily blue-rinse coach guests, but it has evolved into a stylish island discovered by a new
generation of travellers. Three members of Design Hotels™ are an intrinsic part of this development: The Vine,
Choupana Hills and Estalagem da Ponta do Sol. They have brought a breath of fresh air along with contemporary
design and modern lifestyle to the Portuguese paradise in the Atlantic Ocean. Each hotel provides a unique travel
experience. The Vine is the island’s newest design hotel in the heart of the capital Funchal. With its rooftop
terrace, Vinotherapy spa and Michelin-starred chef, the hotel is the place to stay for style mavens, young couples
or other hedonists. Others may prefer to head to the hills – Choupana Hills – a perfect hideaway in the mountains
of Funchal. Here Asian-inspired design and spa tradition make for a Zen-like experience. Estalagem da Ponta do
Sol captivates guests with its spectacular views from the top of a cliff and its minimalist design. Home to several
music festivals, this is where lovers of beats and rhythms will find their groove.
The Vine
Generous space and pared-down sophistication are the trademarks of this new property located in the centre of the
island’s capital Funchal. The Vine takes its name and inspiration from the island’s world famous Madeira wine.
Interiors represent the vision of award-winning local designer Nini Andrade Silva who created a four colour
concept, reflecting the maturation of a grapevine throughout the seasons. At the hotel’s spa, guests can indulge in
a large offering of Vinotherapy treatments with products made of the finest grapes. Madeira’s new hotspot is the
hotel’s rooftop terrace on the sixth floor. Here, guests swim in the infinity pool, relax on the ultra large sunbeds or
enjoy a cocktail at the open-air bar – aptly named 360º for its spectacular views. It’s also the setting for chill-out
parties, which happen every Saturday. Lounge music and Brazilian cocktails evoke a party mood attracting locals
and hotel guests. www.designhotels.com/the_vine_hotel
Choupana Hills
Choupana Hills was a trendsetter for the region. It was Madeira’s second design hotel and has attracted a new
segment of visitors to Madeira – young urban professionals. For guests who want to get away from it all, this is it!
Peacefully nestled in the mountains high over Funchal in a lush sub tropical environment, the resort perfectly
combines Asian and African accents with local materials. Natural resources, colours and lighting bring about a
laid-back ambience that transports guests into the island state-of-mind. For ultimate relaxation, guests can head to
Choupana Hills’ award-winning spa that features outdoor and indoor pools, a sauna, an authentic Turkish bath
and six treatment rooms. Or they can simply rest in their rooms, which are all located in bungalows. Innovative
cuisine with a mix of local and exotic products is served at Restaurante Xôpana, one of the first fusion restaurants
in Madeira. To balance out all the relaxation, guests are invited to go paragliding high over the mountains of
Funchal, scuba diving in the nearby sea or take a hike on the Levada walk that crosses the hotel.
www.designhotels.com/choupana_hills
Estalagem da Ponta do Sol
Set on a top of a cliff, a more spectacular location is difficult to imagine. All of the hotel’s sections divide
themselves along slate outcrops that tumble down to the sea. Estalagem da Ponta do Sol results from the
renovation of an old “quinta”, a mansion house dating back to the 19th century. The architecture of this stark
white getaway enhances the natural beauty of its surroundings and creates a chic yet relaxed atmosphere. From the
infinity swimming pool, guests can enjoy unlimited views of the Atlantic Ocean, which seems just a dive away.
Those looking for more adventure can do jeep safaris and rock climbing. Throughout the year, Estalagem da

2. Ponta do Sol sponsors several music festivals, including MADEIRADIG, an annual festival for digital art and
electronic music, attracting guests and artists from all over the world. The after hour sessions take place at the
hotel’s chill-out bar bringing together the public and artists in a relaxed party atmosphere.
www.designhotels.com/pontadosol
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ABOUT DESIGN HOTELS™
Design Hotels™ represents and markets a hand-picked collection of more than 180 hotels in over 40 countries
across the globe. Established in 1993, as the first of its kind, the company offers unparalleled specialist knowledge
from conceptual branding through to market trend consultancy and international representation.
The member hotels are independently owned but united by a commitment to individuality, progressive design and
cultural authenticity. Design Hotels™ embody the most advanced ideas in the hospitality industry and offer
cosmopolitan travellers new options for both travel and inspiration. The company has its headquarters in Berlin
and branches in London, Barcelona, New York, Singapore, Bali, Tokyo and Perth.