Find hotels in Gaula from £56

Top reasons to visit Gaula

• Stunning Natural Beauty: Gaula is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, ideal for scenic hikes and outdoor activities.
• Family-Friendly Activities: The region offers numerous eco-friendly adventures suitable for families, including local golf courses and levada walks.
• Charming Local Culture: Explore the quaint village atmosphere and visit historical sites like Santa Maria de Gaula.
• Botanical Gardens: Enjoy the vibrant flora in nearby botanical gardens, perfect for leisurely strolls.
• Proximity to Funchal: Just a short distance from Funchal, Gaula serves as an ideal base for exploring Madeira.

Find great hotels near Gaula

For an unforgettable stay in Gaula, Santa Cruz, Madeira, you'll discover a variety of accommodation options tailored to suit every traveller's needs. From family-friendly hotels to charming villas, the area offers a selection of lodgings equipped with essential amenities like pools and business facilities. Whether you're seeking adventure or a relaxing vacation, Gaula has the perfect property for your getaway.

• Dom Pedro Madeira: A delightful 4-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.0, Dom Pedro Madeira is located a mere 6.4km from Gaula and is perfect for families seeking a beach holiday. This hotel boasts direct access to the beach, allowing guests to soak up the sun and enjoy the scenic beauty of Madeira. Families will appreciate the dedicated children's amenities, including a children's pool, arcade game room, and babysitting services, ensuring a fun-filled stay for the little ones while parents relax.
• TURIM Santa Maria Hotel: Rated 9.4, this 4-star hotel is situated approximately 9.7km from Gaula and combines a city-centric experience with a focus on nature. TURIM Santa Maria Hotel offers direct beach access and is nestled in the heart of the city, making it a great base for exploring local attractions. The rooftop terrace provides a perfect spot to unwind and connect with nature, while the wellness amenities promise a rejuvenating stay, making it ideal for those who appreciate both urban and natural surroundings.
• Hotel PortoBay Santa Maria: Another 4-star gem with a guest rating of 9.4, Hotel PortoBay Santa Maria is located 9.7km from Gaula and is a haven for adventure enthusiasts. With direct access to the beach, this hotel offers a variety of adventure sports and recreational activities nearby, including hiking, cycling, and scooter rentals. Guests can indulge in thrilling outdoor pursuits while enjoying modern comforts, making for an exhilarating holiday experience.

Where to stay in Gaula

Gaula, nestled in the enchanting Madeira Region, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly experiences. With its pleasant climate and breathtaking landscapes, visitors can explore the lush surroundings on scenic hikes or relax in charming local cafés. Just a stone's throw away, the vibrant city of Funchal beckons with its rich culture and friendly atmosphere, making Gaula the perfect base for discovering the captivating beauty of Madeira Island.

• Santa Cruz: Nestled along the stunning coastline of Madeira, Santa Cruz is a vibrant city that offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures and family-friendly experiences. With a mild climate, it attracts visitors year-round, particularly from April to July. Here, you can enjoy a variety of activities such as golfing at local courses or exploring scenic hiking trails. The city is also home to beautiful landmarks including a picturesque marina, inviting beaches, and lush parks, making it a perfect base for relaxation and exploration.
• Machico: Located approximately 6.4km from Gaula, Machico is a charming city known for its beautiful beaches and rich history. Visitors flock here mainly during the summer months from June to September for fun-filled outdoor activities. The city boasts an impressive aquatic centre, along with excellent golfing facilities. Don't miss the chance to explore its stunning beachfront and lovely parks. Machico's close-knit community and welcoming atmosphere make it a delightful stop on your Madeira adventure.
• Pinheiro: Just 1.3km from Gaula, Pinheiro is a quaint village that offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its peak visitor season during July and August, this charming village is perfect for those seeking outdoor sports and beach activities. Enjoy a round of golf at local courses or take a scenic ride on the cable car gondola for breathtaking views. The nearby beach, marina, and park are ideal for leisurely strolls and family picnics, showcasing the natural beauty of the region.

Things to do in Gaula

Gaula, located in the Santa Cruz region of Madeira, is perfect for outdoor and eco-friendly family holidays. Visitors can enjoy a round of golf at the local course, explore the scenic levada walks, and take in breathtaking views from the cable car gondola. With its blend of leisure activities and stunning natural beauty, Gaula offers an inviting escape for tourists seeking adventure and relaxation alike.

Shopping

In Gaula, you can enjoy charming local shops offering handmade crafts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to Madeira Shopping in Funchal for a wider selection of stores, including fashion and electronics, or visit La Vie Funchal Shopping Centre for a variety of boutiques and dining options.

Recreation

Experience the tranquil atmosphere at the Monte Palace Hotel Spa, where you can indulge in rejuvenating treatments and stunning botanical gardens. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Levada walks offer scenic trails through lush landscapes, perfect for leisurely hikes and reconnecting with nature.

Adventure

Explore the lush landscapes of Gaula with a thrilling canyoning adventure, navigating through stunning waterfalls and natural pools. For a unique experience, try paragliding above the cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the coastline and the Atlantic Ocean, perfect for adrenaline seekers and nature lovers alike.

Nightlife

In Gaula, enjoy a lively evening at the local bars, where you can sip on Portuguese wines. For a vibrant atmosphere, visit the nearby Club Madeira, known for its music and dancing. Alternatively, unwind at a charming café along the coast, soaking in the stunning views of the Atlantic.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Gaula

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Gaula are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May and July to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Gaula is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Gaula is Friday. The most expensive day to stay in Gaula is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. To discover the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You could potentially save money by combining your hotel booking in Gaula with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Gaula

Gaula, located in the Santa Cruz region of Madeira, Portugal, offers a delightful mix of outdoor activities ideal for families and eco-conscious travellers. Popular attractions include stunning botanical gardens, picturesque beaches, and scenic lookouts, providing a perfect backdrop for romance and family bonding. Visitors can explore local highlights such as Santa Maria de Gaula and other nearby attractions, making it a charming destination for a memorable holiday.

• Madeira Botanical Garden: Immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of the Madeira Botanical Garden, located 8.0km from Gaula. This enchanting garden features a diverse range of exotic plants and flowers, perfect for a romantic stroll or a family outing amidst nature's splendour.
• Palmeiras Beach: Enjoy the sun, sand, and sea at Palmeiras Beach, just 1.6km away from Gaula. This idyllic beach offers a relaxing atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for sunbathing and taking in the tranquil coastal vibes.
• Ponta da Oliveira: Discover breathtaking views at Ponta da Oliveira, a scenic cape situated 4.8km from Gaula. With its captivating coastal scenery, it's an ideal location for photography and enjoying the natural beauty of Madeira.

The nearest major airports for your trip to Gaula

Flying into Gaula, Santa Cruz, Madeira, is convenient with two major airports nearby. Funchal Airport (FNC-Cristiano Ronaldo) is located approximately 3.2km away. Recommended hotels close to the airport include the 5-star Albatroz Beach & Yacht Club, only 322m away, and the Savoy Palace, 14.5km from Funchal. Transportation services from these hotels often include airport shuttles available on request. Alternatively, Porto Santo Airport (PXO) is about 61.2km away, with splendid options like the 5-star Pestana Porto Santo Beach Resort & Spa, 3.2km from the airport, and the 4-star Hotel Porto Santo & Spa, just 1.6km away, both offering easy access to the airport.