The much-overlooked Quinta da Serra is a hidden gem that is worth discovering.
Yes, Funchal and Ponta do Sol are great places, but if you prefer a little more privacy and still want to be within easy distance of the south coast, why consider this hotel in the hills. Perhaps the fact that it’s Madeira’s first bio hotel might tickle your curiosity as well.
Both Max and I have stayed at the Quinta da Serra on separate occasions and here are 10 reasons why you should seriously consider staying here as well.
1). It’s Madeira’s first bio hotel. But what exactly does that mean? The hotel uses locally grown and farmed produce, and some of the ingredients like herbs, fruit and vegetables are also grown in its own vast garden. At times guided tours are organised, and guests are encouraged to help to pick the fruit or help in the garden. The spring water too comes from a well found in the grounds.
2). Spacious rooms. Yes, even the standard rooms aren’t poky and have a balcony that overlooks the garden. Superior rooms offer even more space or splash out on a junior suite and you have a separate sitting room and a bathroom with a television.
3). Some people don’t like to eat in hotels, but if you’re staying at the Quinta da Serra, you simply must eat there. The chefs are quite creative and prepare innovative dishes with local produce and herbs grown in the quinta’s own garden.
4). It’s the pinkest hotel you’ll ever stay in. Not too everyone’s taste perhaps, but it blends in quite well when the trees, bushes and flowers in the hotel’s garden are in bloom. And it stands out in winter when you need some colour to brighten up a dreary day.
5). This could have come under number 3, but we think it deserves its own ranking. Breakfast at Quinta da Serra is a feast! There’s so much choice, you just don’t know where to start – a difficult thing to do first thing in the morning or when you’re on holiday. It’s all healthy, wholesome and tasty too.
6). The gardens are amazing. Did you know it has some of Madeira’s oldest trees? The imposing and impressive Eucalyptus and Oak trees that line the cobble stoned driveway to the hotel are thought to be around 200 years old.
7). Staff are very friendly and will go out of their way to make you feel at home at their Quinta. The chef will always be around at dinner time to make sure that your dining experience is a memorable one.
8). The hotel runs a complimentary shuttle bus service to Funchal.
9). The indoor pool has an atrium style ceiling, and you feel as if you’re swimming in a massive greenhouse. The small jacuzzi is perfect after you have come back from the great walks that you can do around the area and massages can be arranged too. There’s a pool side café / bar.
10). Unlike other hotels that hike up their prices in the high season, July, August and September are still very affordable times to stay at this charming hotel.
Do you like what you read and are interesting in staying at the Quinta da Serra, either for the whole duration of your stay on Madeira, or at the end of your trip, then do contact us on 017687 21040 and speak to either Paul, Max or Susanne.