10 Best Luxury Hotels in Madeira
The Most Exclusive Stays in 2024
- Last Updated: September 10, 2024
For those seeking the best luxury hotels in Madeira, this island gem in the Atlantic Ocean offers a premier destination for opulence and refinement. With its dramatic landscapes, lush greenery, and vibrant cultural heritage, Madeira presents a range of high-end accommodations that blend elegance with the island’s natural charm. Over the years, Madeira has gained acclaim for its upscale hospitality, attracting travelers in search of sophistication and comfort in a truly stunning setting.
From grand hotels situated along the island’s breathtaking coastline to intimate boutique retreats with panoramic views of the Atlantic, each property on our curated list embodies Madeira’s dedication to luxury and quality. Whether you’re indulging in a lavish stay overlooking the ocean or enjoying the serenity of a beautifully designed resort surrounded by verdant gardens, Madeira’s luxury hotels promise an extraordinary experience.
Explore our selection of the 10 best luxury hotels in Madeira, featuring both celebrated classics and exciting new additions. Discover the perfect blend of prime locations, exquisite amenities, and authentic local experiences, ensuring your visit to Madeira is as memorable as the island’s breathtaking beauty and rich cultural tapestry.
Table of Contents
The Best Luxury Hotels In Madeira
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The Best Luxury Hotels In Madeira
Where to Stay in Madeira?
Madeira offers a variety of settings, from vibrant cities to serene coastal towns and lush mountains. Whether you’re a first-time visitor, nature enthusiast, or looking for a romantic getaway, this guide will help you find the ideal area to stay.
1. Funchal – Best for First-Time Visitors Funchal, Madeira’s capital on the south coast, is a hub of culture and history. It’s perfect for first-time visitors who want easy access to main attractions like the Old Town, local markets, and the Monte cable car.
- Old Town (Zona Velha): Ideal for local culture, with historic streets and many dining options.
- Lido Area: Great for beach access, swimming pools, and promenades.
- City Center: Convenient for shopping, museums, and transportation.
2. Calheta – Best for Beach Lovers Calheta on the southwest coast features Madeira’s sandy beach, making it ideal for sunbathing and water sports. The town offers a relaxed vibe with stunning scenery.
- Calheta Beach Area: Close to the beach, cafés, and restaurants.
- Hillside Villas: Offers privacy and panoramic ocean views.
3. Machico – Best for Tradition and Adventure Machico, on the east coast, combines historical sites with outdoor activities. It’s perfect for those who enjoy local culture and access to hiking trails and beaches.
- Town Center: Near the beach, landmarks, and local dining.
- Near the Marina: For ocean views and water activities.
4. Santa Cruz – Best for Families Santa Cruz, 20 km from Funchal, is family-friendly with attractions like a water park and go-karting. The village features beautiful cobbled streets and a convenient location.
- Near the Beach: Easy access to Praia das Palmeiras and seaside dining.
- Village Center: Offers a traditional setting with local shops.
5. Ponta do Sol – Best for Couples Ponta do Sol on the west coast is known for its romantic atmosphere and sunny weather. It’s perfect for couples looking to unwind and explore scenic cliffs and pebble beaches.
- Seaside: Close to Praia da Ponta do Sol for sunset views and beach access.
- Hillside Accommodations: Provides privacy and panoramic ocean views.
6. São Vicente – Best for Nature Lovers São Vicente, on the north coast, is surrounded by mountains and known for its lava caves. It’s ideal for those wanting to experience Madeira’s natural beauty.
- Village Center: Close to caves, museums, and local spots.
- Mountain Retreats: Offers a nature experience with stunning valley views.
7. Porto Moniz – Best for a Trendy Experience Porto Moniz, also on the north coast, is famous for its volcanic pools. It’s a trendy spot for relaxation and adventure with dramatic coastal landscapes.
- Near the Natural Pools: Easy access to the pools and nearby restaurants.
- Hilltop Locations: For tranquility and sweeping coastal views.
8. Ribeira Brava – Best for Local Vibes Ribeira Brava on the southwest coast provides an authentic Madeiran experience with a laid-back atmosphere, local markets, and traditional dining.
- Near the Town Center: Convenient for shops, the beach, and local attractions.
- Inland Villages: Offers traditional accommodations surrounded by nature.
9. Caniço – Best for Budget Travelers Caniço, just 15 minutes from Funchal, is a budget-friendly area known for its scenic viewpoints and botanical gardens.
- Near Garajau: Close to the Cristo Rei statue and beaches.
- Caniço de Baixo: Coastal neighborhood with affordable accommodations and sea views.
Bonus Areas to Consider:
- Porto da Cruz: A quiet spot on the north coast with scenic views and hiking trails.
- Porto Santo: Known for its sandy beaches and diving spots, accessible by ferry or short flight.
- Santana: Famous for traditional thatched-roof houses and proximity to Laurisilva Forest, ideal for nature lovers.
Price Comparison
Rooms for two people in EUR
Hotels
Reid’s Palace, A Belmond Hotel (9,6)
Les Suites at The Cliff Bay (9,5)
Terrabona Nature & Vineyards (9,9)
Quinta Jardins do Lago (9,7)
Savoy Palace (9,3)
Barceló Funchal Oldtown (9,1)
The Cliff Bay – PortoBay (9,2)
Saccharum – Resort and Spa (9,1)
Albatroz Beach & Yacht Club (9,4)
Vi Naturae Glamping (9,7)
Price
554€
522€
390€
371€
306€
274€
259€
243€
198€
160€
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The Best Luxury Hotels In Madeira
The Most Exclusive Stays in 2024
Perched on Madeira’s dramatic cliffs and surrounded by lush gardens, Reid’s Palace, a Belmond Hotel, is one of the best hotels in Madeira and an iconic retreat overlooking the Atlantic. Since 1891, this luxury haven has perfected the art of hospitality, offering a blend of timeless elegance and rich history.
The hotel features 126 rooms and suites, including the famed Churchill and Bernard Shaw suites. Guests can relax in heated pools, dive into the sea from the exclusive platform, or enjoy a serene afternoon tea on the terrace. Dining ranges from Michelin-starred cuisine at William Restaurant to Italian classics at Ristorante Villa Cipriani.
Adventure and relaxation abound with tennis courts, botanical tours, sunrise hikes, and spa treatments inspired by Madeira’s natural beauty. Ideal for events and just 1.8 km from Funchal, Reid’s Palace combines heritage charm with modern luxury, making it a top escape in Madeira.
Quinta Jardins do Lago is an elegant luxury boutique hotel in Madeira, known for its rich history, botanical gardens, and refined hospitality. Perched on a hillside near Funchal, this 18th-century estate once served as the residence of General Beresford during the Napoleonic Wars. Today, it features 32 beautifully appointed rooms and suites, all facing the lush gardens.
The hotel is renowned for its 2.5-hectare botanical garden, home to over 500 unique plant species, rare trees, and colorful flowers. Guests can dine at the Beresford Restaurant, where Madeiran and international cuisine is served in a historic setting, or relax at the Colombo Bistro by the pool. The property offers a range of leisure amenities, including a heated pool, gym, croquet lawn, and library.
With its blend of history, luxury, and natural beauty, Quinta Jardins do Lago is a standout among Madeira’s boutique hotels, offering a serene retreat surrounded by nature’s finest.
Savoy Palace, a 5-star luxury resort in Madeira, offers an unmatched blend of modern comfort, elegance, and warm hospitality. As a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, this cosmopolitan retreat redefines luxury with personalized experiences and exceptional service. Nestled in the heart of Funchal, the hotel draws inspiration from Madeira’s lush landscapes, creating a serene yet vibrant atmosphere.
The accommodations range from stylish rooms with ocean views to spacious suites, all reflecting the island’s natural beauty and sophisticated design. Guests can indulge in diverse dining options, from gourmet cuisine at Galáxia Skyfood to creative local flavors at Terreiro.
The award-winning Laurea Spa, inspired by Madeira’s ancient Laurissilva forest, offers a tranquil escape with world-class treatments, a heated pool, and wellness facilities. For active visitors, the state-of-the-art gym provides the perfect balance between relaxation and fitness.
Savoy Palace is ideal for both leisure and business travelers, featuring elegant venues for weddings, events, and meetings. With its stunning design, outstanding amenities, and dedication to detail, Savoy Palace is a dream destination that celebrates Madeira’s rich heritage and natural beauty, and is no doubt, one of the best luxury hotels in Madeira.
Barceló Funchal Oldtown, a luxurious five-star hotel in Madeira’s capital, Funchal, boasts a prime location overlooking the ocean, near Funchal Cathedral and Avenida do Mar. This unique hotel blends modern design with elements of local tradition, housed in six restored seventeenth-century buildings, including sites of historical significance like the Oliveira Bordados Enmaderienses factory and the Blandy family’s old residence.
The hotel’s interiors celebrate Madeira’s culture with references to local embroidery and wicker basketry. Guests enjoy elegant rooms with city or sea views, modern amenities, and luxurious touches. The rooftop features a heated outdoor pool with stunning ocean and city views. Dining options include the B-Heaven Rooftop Bar and Lobby Bar, offering international cuisine and local specialties.
For events, Barceló Funchal Oldtown provides versatile meeting spaces and an outdoor rooftop venue. The hotel also offers a gym, a digital wellness program, and is centrally located for exploring Funchal’s vibrant surroundings. For reservations and more information, visit their website or contact them directly.
Saccharum is a standout among the best luxury hotels in Madeira, offering a refined 5-star experience on the island. Situated in the scenic area of Calheta, this resort perfectly combines luxury with sustainability, featuring a modern design that complements Madeira’s natural beauty. Guests are treated to breathtaking sea and mountain views, creating a serene backdrop for their stay.
The eco-conscious accommodations range from the tranquil Side Ocean Suite to the luxurious SPE Design Suite, all crafted for comfort and connection to nature. Saccharum Spa, inspired by Ayurveda, provides rejuvenating treatments in a serene setting, complemented by an infinity pool, sauna, and sensory showers. The well-equipped gym offers scenic workout options.
Dining at Saccharum includes exquisite experiences at the Alambique Restaurant and buffet spreads at Engenho, along with sunset cocktails at Fly Lounge Bar. The resort’s facilities are ideal for both relaxation and business, promising a luxurious and mindful retreat in Madeira.
At the Albatroz Beach & Yacht Club, guests can enjoy spacious and elegantly designed rooms and suites. The main building offers fifteen rooms, including Premium Rooms and Junior Suites, each 44 square meters with private balconies that showcase stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Desertas Islands. These accommodations are decorated with nautical motifs and luxurious materials like casquinha wood and traditional Portuguese tiles.
For those seeking more space, the Superior Suite and Premium Suite offer 95 and 120 square meters, respectively, with expansive living areas and multiple balconies. The historic Manor House, recently refurbished, features five additional rooms ranging from 25 to 35 square meters, with some overlooking the ocean and others facing the hotel’s picturesque gardens.
The hotel’s facilities include a restaurant with ocean views, natural seawater swimming pools, a heated freshwater pool, lush gardens, a tennis court, a spa, and a gym. The Albatroz Beach & Yacht Club provides a luxurious retreat with a blend of comfort, relaxation, and breathtaking Atlantic views.
Vi Naturae, located in one of Madeira’s natural reserves at 600 meters above sea level, offers a unique glamping experience where nature takes center stage. Visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of serene mornings and captivating starlit nights. This retreat combines comfort with the outdoors, providing an ideal escape from everyday life.
The accommodations at Vi Naturae are designed for relaxation and convenience. Each unit features a private bathroom with a shower, towels, and essential toiletries. The fully equipped kitchen includes appliances such as a microwave and mini fridge, catering to all guests’ needs.
Guests can enjoy a delightful breakfast delivered directly to their accommodation, stay connected with free Wi-Fi and cable TV, and unwind in the heated infinity pool with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Air conditioning in all units ensures a comfortable stay throughout the year.
The Best Luxury Hotels In Madeira
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