Madeira has a tropical mountain landscape, with hillsides covered in lush green foliage, sapphire blue seas, and impressive rock ridges. The walking trails are fantastic and there are endless opportunities for adventurous activity and site-seeing excursions. Pretty coastal towns can be found all along the coastline and each corner of the island has a slightly different flavour. You can stay in the thick of the action in Funchal, or opt for somewhere a little quieter. From dramatic clifftop hotels to tranquil country retreats, we’ve selected a few favourites to get you started.
What ever location and style of accommodation you prefer, we will find you something you love.
- Quintinha Sao Joao
- Quinta do Furao
- Aqua Natura Madeira
- Pestana Churchill Bay Hotel
- Eira do Serrado Hotel & Spa
Quintinha Sao Joao, on the outskirts of Funchal, a 20 minute walk from the centre
Quintinha Sao Joao is a lovely hotel with wonderful gardens. It’s far enough from Funchal’s centre to offer a tranquil place to return to, but close enough that you can walk to most of Funchal’s major highlights. The hotel can arrange taxis for you, and they are readily available within the city centre. This charming five star hotel has two pools, including one on a glass-covered rooftop. There’s a lovely bar and plenty of lounge space, including garden terraces. The food is excellent and the staff are always on hand to help you make the most of your stay.
Quinta do Furao, a cliff-top hotel in Santana, at the north eastern end of the island
The cliff-top location of the Quinta do Furao offers guests some of the finest ocean views. Set amongst 5-hectars of land, covered in grape vines, this is the perfect choice if you like a countryside retreat. There’s an indoor pool with a jacuzzi and an outdoor pool. The hotel restaurant is one of the best around, so make sure you eat in at least once! The pretty town of Santana is a short taxi ride away, or a walk if you don’t mind hills! Some of Madeira’s tougher walking routes and most dramatic mountain roads can be found at the eastern end of the island.
Aqua Natura Madeira, in Porto Moniz, a beach town on the north east of the island
The Aqua Natura Madeira is arguably the best places to stay in the small seaside village of Porto Moniz, famous for its beautiful sea-pools. The pools at the foot of the hotel are formed from volcanic rock and are open to the paying public, and free for guests of the hotel. The town itself has a relaxed holiday vibe and is incredible picturesque, and has lots of nice cafes and restaurants. We recommend having your own car, because there are some really spectacular mountain roads and pretty villages around this part of the island so it’s worth exploring beyond Porto Moniz.
Pestana Churchill Bay, Camara do Lobos
The Pestana Churchill Bay Hotel is in Camara de Lobos, a pretty coastal town near Funchal. You’re close enough to the city to enjoy all of the activities on offer there, whilst enjoying the tranquillity of this pretty little sea-side town. You can enjoy a great selection of local restaurants and bars within the bay area, and can walk along the promenade . This was a favourite location of Winston Churchill, who painted scenes of the bay and colourful fishing boats. The hotel’s pool and lounge area sits on a terrace overlooking the bay, as does their outdoor dining area. It really is in a wonderful location.
Eira do Serrado Hotel & Spa, sat on a plateu overlooking the Nun’s Valley
When it comes to mountain views, the elevated position of the Eira do Serrado Hotel and Spa cannot be beaten. The Nun’s valley is one of the most photographed views in Madeira and you get to enjoy this vista during your stay. All rooms, the glass-covered pool, the fitness area, and the restaurant terrace offer this view. The village Curral das Freiras is surrounded on all sides by giant mountains. Madeira’s highest peak, Pico Arieiro, is close by. You can drive up to enjoy the view, or challenge yourself to do the thrilling ridge walk from Pico Ariero to Pico Ruivo.
Where to stay in Madeira – Get in touch for some personalised recommendations
If you’re looking to visit Madeira, then do get in touch. We are always happy to make recommendations, whether that’s the best adventurous activities, what to do in Funchal, the best levada trails, or the most luxurious hotels. There are a wide variety of options in Madeira and we’re always happy to send customised lists of accommodation options.
