Vila Afonso is divided into three parts. That is, an older house, a newer part at the front, and a cottage or bungalow just above and behind the main old house. The older part - where all of the rooms are located - is presumed to be more than 300 years old. The newer part, separated from the old house by a glass window and a unique bridge over the swimming pool, was built in 1999. The old house has been in the Afonso family now for four generations .The property was also once the property of a famous, esteemed and honoured First World War hero - the Alferes Veiga Pestana, who fought as an official for the Portuguese army and died in the battle of Lys in France. Thus the house is also a part of the Madeira heritage. A well known street in the centre of Funchal is also named after its most famous owner.

As far as was possible period pieces and original furniture previosly used in the old house was kept and refurbished or renovated. The rooms all enjoy modern standards expected in similar accommodations: electrical heating, a direct dial telephone, cable television, a safe to store valuables, baby-cots (if necessary) and en-suite bathrooms with toilet. The biggest of the rooms has a proper bath whilst all the other rooms have showers. All guests can share the swimming pool, the gardens, the living room and the spacious area inside and around the property.