Though chock-full of botanical gardens, whitewashed villages, caf¿s, chic shopping and more than a touch of European class, Madeira is known for its wine. For the story behind the storied vinho of this Portuguese island, check out ISLANDS September/October issue, which hits newsstands in late August.

Sweet Sleeps
Reid's Palace Hotel is a recently renovated Madeira institution (first opened in 1891) with a refined sense of decorum, a sophisticated piano bar with dynamic views of the sea and an afternoon tea where the well-heeled gather to sip as they chat. Reid's offers a five-night package during the Madeira Wine Festival this fall, including daily breakfast, a bottle of wine and a trip to the Madeira Wine Company, among other goodies. Package rates from $1,168. www.reidspalace.com A lower priced option is the Hotel Tivoli Ocean Park with many rooms that have balconies and ocean views. The d¿cor inside ¿ touches of color, geometrical furniture and modern vases ¿ is quite refreshing. Rates from $205. www.madeirativolioceanpark.com

Both hotels are in Funchal.

Around Town
Ride a telef¿rico, one of the island's unique cable cars, from Funchal, Madeira's capital city, up to Monte Palace and sit for a while at its swan or coy ponds. To return, take one of the toboggans pushed by two carreiros down a windy road. Hike the levadas, old water canals once used to irrigate the terraced mountainsides, now guides for the development of a fantastic system of hiking trails. Stop by the simply marvelous Victor's Bar, a rustic, funky, cottage-like restaurant literally nestled between the hills near the levadas.
www.madeiratourism.org

Choice Vinho
Justino's Madeira's (www.justinosmadeira.com) Old Reserve - 10 Years Old - Fine Dry. Or, for something sweeter, pick up a bottle of the Madeira Wine Company's (www.madeirawinecompany.com) Cossart Gordon - 1994 Malmsey Colheita.