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Choupana Hills Resort - Funchal

Operator and Date: Style Holidays - July 2004

Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : Sue & Martyn, Wiltshire (50 & 49)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We spent 2 weeks in Funchal - the first week in the Porto Santa Maria in the Old Town and the second here in the hills. It's a great combination, with easy access to Funchal for the first week and a total 'away from it all' feel for the second. We did a lot of walking and recommend Madeira Explorers for their guided walks - we took 3 and did some on our own. One levada runs right through the hotel grounds (but it's not for anyone suffering from vertigo!) We went virtually all over the island - a 4 wheel drive jeep trip to the West, and taxi tours to Nuns Valley and the East. They cost around e50 for a halfday and e90 for a whole day - up to 4 passengers and you have more freedom to go where you wish. Our walks took us to places inaccessible by vehicles. 

The food at Choupana is out of this world - but not cheap. However, the quality means it is good value. If you stay here for the entire holiday, bear in mind the cost of getting back from the city if you eat out there in the evening. There's a courtesy bus during the day but the last one returns at 7.30pm. Taxis cost around e15 each way.

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Choupana Hills Resort - Funchal

Operator and Date: (Panorama Discounts) Panorama - April 2004

Opinion submitted in Apr 2004 by : Mark Murphy  - Dublin (35)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We travelled to Madeira not knowing what to expect as all we had heard was that Madeira for for the "Newly Wed and the Nearly Dead!".  Not too encouraging.  However, all we wanted was somewhere pretty, clean, quiet for that long awaited one week Easter break as the next holiday wasn´t going to happen until September. 

We were staying in Funchal in a beautiful 5 star hotel which is about a seven minute drive up the mountain overlooking the town on the steepest roads I´ve ever encountered.  The hotel could not and did not disappoint us once.  There was a Feng Shui feel to this hotel as the decor was mostly designed around natural colours, wood and natural fibres.  The staff were unintrusive but always there to lend a helping hand when needed.  Even though this was a five star hotel, there was never a feeling of pretentiousness. 

The hotel rooms are semi-detached bungalows with private decks although to get the better views, you need to pay extra.  However, this did not detract from the excellent choice of interior design.  Canopy style large double beds, his and hers wardrobes, tea and coffee facilities, satellite TV with a few channels that showed English/US movies with subtitles in Portuguese which was handy when we needed to pass the time during the few rainy hours we experienced.

The spa was good except we weren´t advised by Panorama to book in advance and on our arrival we discovered that all the treatments were booked up so we were now on a waiting list.  We were very disappointed and annoyed but, like anything in life, let it ruin your holiday and it will.  We decided not to let it and made do with the numerous other facilities available to us.  The gym, the beautiful outdoor (heated) and indoor pools, jacuzzi, sauna, etc.  Towels and matresses are provided by the pool and a wonderful waiter service.  Afternoon tea by the pool will never be forgotten. 

The restaurant was magnificent.  The menu didn´t change during the week but as both of us are adventurous eaters and as every dish was more wonderful than the next, this didn´t matter.  We ate four times during the week in the hotel with absolutely no complaints.  Starters, main courses, one dessert, coffees, wine can amount to anywhere from 80 - 110 euros for two.  Breakfast is buffet style with anything you desire and if you don´t see what you want, ask and they´ll probably cook it for you.  Plus, they don´t stop serving until 10.30 a.m. which was a bonus for us lazy lumps.

Follow your guide book about what to do in Funchal.  Cable cars, excursions, magnificent guided walks ranging from two hours to eight hours, shopping, wine and port tasting, markets (permanent indoor markets i.e. leather, flowers, fish, meets, fruit, veg., - worth a visit) etc. 

I cannot complain at all about this holiday.  We came here to relax and that´s exactly what we did.  We´ll definitely return next year.

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Cliff Bay Hotel - Funchal

Operator and Date: Cadogan - 2006

Opinion submitted in September 2006 by : Caroline Vaughan - Surrey (48, 42, 14, 10)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

The Cliff Bay Hotel in Madeira is just the most fabulous hotel set in the cliff side, with access to two lovely pools and steps down to the sea.  It has a sophisticated air, despite it's size and is second to none in every respect.  We always have two 'Superior Rooms with sea view' each year !  The rooms are very spacious and clean and the bathrooms have separate shower cubicle alongside the bath.  Frosted glass surrounds the toilet as well, for privacy in the bathroom.  Twin basins.  Plasma screen flat television in the room as well as pleasant seating area with two little sofas and coffee table.  Funchal is only a 6 euro taxi ride away if you don't want to walk it.  We adore this hotel and Funchal and would highly recommend it to 'families'.  People tend to think it's a place that 'oldies' go to, but far from it.  It's fabulous !

we adore it so much as a family that we are going for the fourth time next Easter.  We will probably make it our easter holiday every year from now on !  Ten days there is just perfect !  The children can't wait each year ! (14 and 11 now).

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Cliff Bay Hotel - Funchal

Operator and Date: (Sovereign Direct) Sovereign - November 2004

Opinion submitted in Dec 2004 by : Mike and Kate - 41, 34

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Looking for somewhere for a honeymoon in November, that still had a bit of a warm climate and wasn't a ten-hour flight away, we opted for Madeira. The contributers to this website persuaded us to choose the Cliff Bay for our two weeks.

Their reviews were spot on. The hotel was perfect,the staff were very helpful and  our room was fantastic with a balcony overlooking the ocean and the city of Funchal. We needed peace and tranquility to recover from the stresses of work and organising a wedding. Funchal and the Cliff Bay gave us just that. It wasn't a bargain but we felt it was worth every penny.
Hotel food - Breakfast is a vast choice of cooked or continental or fruit or cerials, as much as you can eat. There were even bottles of cava for a "hair of the dog" if needed. Still serving after 10am for those of us who need our beauty sleep.

We didn't try meals in the main restaurants but did have a bite to eat by the outdoor pool in the afternoon. Couldn't fault it, even the snacks are done to a high standard. A couple of evenings we had sandwiches in the cliff bar and watched the duos singing mostly in English.

The indoor pool is great and underused, you can expect to get the pool to yourself if you time it right. Follow this by a stint in the Jacuzzi near the pool or just sit at the poolside with a drink from the cactus bar.

Above the bars by the outside pool is a patio with a giant chess set. Neither of us are good players but we enjoyed a game or two in the sunshine.

Restaurants we can recommend,

Toko's, the little square place at the top of the hotel drive. Ver good food. Either book in advance or get there early, it doesn't seat many and all the staff seem rushed off their feet. The owner, Philipe is a bit of a character. He sometimes plays the trumpet for the diners.

Further along towards the monumental lido is the Moby Dick. This name conjures up the image of a Blackpool chip shop but don't be put off. The food in there is great and good value for money. This was the only restaurant we ate in three times. The fish dishes were excellent and the pork and cheese sauce was wonderful.

La tricolore at the monumental lido was the best value for money. Good food, good house wine at a price you would think was a mistake.  Add to that the friendly staff and we would highly recommended it.

The paradise (not far from the Moby Dick) was OK but one of our meals was disappointing. I suppose it depends what you order, fish meals were good.

The Caffe Villa - just over the big bridge at the top of Avenida do Infante. Good food but get a table indoors. Outside on the terrace is a bit noisy, too close to the traffic (are there no noise regulations for buses and motorbikes out there?)

In the town - the Almirante near the markets, great food and service, average prices.

We had a meal and a show at the casino. The meal seemed hurried and a bit "production line" The show was OK (gents, don't forget your glasses like I did!)

We also got a coach up the hills for a "taste of madeira" with a bit of folk music and dancing. Again the meal was a bit "production line" but there was plenty of wine available.

Reid's for afternoon tea was pleasant but expensive. It seems to be quaintly stuck in the 1930s, leaf teas, sandwiches with the crusts cut off, dainty little cakes and uniformed waiters. I was expecting Noel Coward to appear and give us a song!

The best part of our holiday was going out in the Gaveio yatch for the afternoon. The skipper let us steer the yatch in any direction we liked. He radioed other boats to find out where the whales and dolphins were. We caught up with a group of pilot whales and a gang of dolphins rushed over to ride our bow wave, absolute magic!

Try the cable car and the gardens at the top.14e for the round trip, worth it for the views of Funchal.

It's hard to criticise anything. I suppose the timeshare touts were annoying. They can be persistent, especially with older folks who are too polite. Try the "broken record " technique, i.e "no thank you", "no thank you " "no thank you".... and they eventually give up. Don't agree to go anywhere with them. If someone says they are doing a survey, the are still timeshare touts. You can dodge them on the road into town by taking a hotel courtesy bus.

In conclusion, the Cliff Bay and Madeira was the right place for us to relax and enjoy good food and drink. I can recommend Soveriegn holidays and their rep, Licinia, couldn't have done more for us.

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Cliff Bay Hotel - Funchal

Operator and Date: Atlantic Holidays - September 2004

Opinion submitted in Oct 2004 by : Jane Brookman - South Wales (44, 35)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We stayed at the Cliff Bay in September/October 2004.  The average temperature in Funchal was around 27c - warmer than the guide books suggest but apparently normal for the time of year.  

We were very impressed with the hotel; the rooms are huge and bathrooms have a separate bath and shower.  A kettle was also provided, together with teabags and coffee (though if you don't like evaporated milk it might be worth taking some powdered).  The heated indoor/outdoor swimming pool is brilliant if you don't like cold water, and the seawater swimming pool is lovely once you're in,  especially on a hot day!  

As far as food was concerned, the breakfast buffet was one of the most extensive I've ever seen; lots of fresh fruit as well as the more usual meat, cheese and "English" breakfast options.  There was even porridge on offer.  Unless you can cope with a four course meal every night, though, don't book on a half board basis.  The hotel offers a flexible dining arrangement at a slight discount, enabling you to eat at either of its two main restaurants for either three or five nights.  The Rose Garden offers either a set meal or a buffet (the latter has limited choice but is more than adequate and the hotel, in fairness, is concentrating on the set meals/al la carte options).  Our favourite, though, was Il Gallo d'Orro, which offers an Italian menu.  I would definitely recommend that you pack a decent frock/shirt and tie and eat there at least once.  The restaurant itself reminded us of a scene from a 1930's Agatha Christie novel (lots of potted palms and a pianola).  The staff are also less rushed, as they don't have to clear tables and lay out breakfast settings for the next morning.  And the food is gorgeous.

As an alternative to hotel dining, visit the Paradise restaurant, which is a few minutes' away (turn left out of the hotel, walk past the Crowne Plaza, and you'll see the sign for the Paradise, which is situated down a slightly uneven slope towards the sea - don't wear high heels).  This restaurant serves chargrilled meats and various fish dishes.  The food is good and the loos are sparkling!  We ate here six or seven times and always enjoyed it.

A few practicalities; make sure that every member of your party always has a supply of loo paper about their person.  Many of the public lavatories don't seem to provide any!  There are lots of recyling facilities around (glass, cans, paper and plastic) but I'd suggest using those opposite the Crowne Plaza rather than the Cliff Bay, as the road is busy and there is a zebra crossing en route.  There is a good Pingo Doce supermarket at the lido, which is about ten minutes walk away (it looks further on the map).

As for trips, those to the East and West of the Island are vey helpful for getting some sense of what life is like on the island, although some fellow passengers felt that the trips provided by Atlantic Holidays were overpriced.  I wouldn't book an organised trip to the Monte Gardens; take the cable car and take your time exploring.  (Also, you can pick a sunny day; clouds tend to gather on the higher ground.)

A good hotel, and one to which we'd be happy to return.

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Cliff Bay Hotel - Funchal

Operator and Date: (Sovereign Direct) Sovereign - July/August 2004

Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : Michele & Paul Cartwright (33 & 34) - Croydon

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Just returned from a lovely holiday in Madeira. The Cliff Bay is a beautiful hotel in a fantastic setting. We couldn't have wished for a nicer hotel - excellent facilities, superb views and a wonderful, peaceful place in which to spend a lot of time. We arrived on our first wedding anniversary and (without asking)were upgraded from a side-sea view room to a beautiful junior suite with complimentary wine and flowers. A fabulous surprise. We had a great view of the harbour and bay with a gorgeous part of the garden just below our balcony. A perfect place to enjoy a room-service meal in the evening.

Good mix of ages at hotel- expected a more 'mature' clientele but no different from any other hotel/resort.  
Buffet breakfast was very good - plenty of choice to suit all tastes. Able to sit outside on decking in sun (but may have to queue for table) or in Rose Garden restaurant (no wait)- air con so lovely and cool.

The pools were lovely - we used the Blue Lagoon pool at sea-level as tended to have less children than at the spa pool. (Not that there were many kids at the hotel, it just seemed that the spa pool seemed to attract the families with younger children. As a primary teacher, I wanted a bit of time off!).

Plenty of loungers - no need to get up at the crack of dawn to reserve a spot. Able to get a lounger at any time of day. Lots of different terraces to choose between. Hotel provided towels (get from spa reception) and plenty of pool staff to bring mattresses, position brollies etc. Also a bar man to bring drinks to your lounger. Nice touch - gave out compimentary iced juice drinks every morning. Lovely and refreshing. Whole area was spotlessly clean and nicely presented.  Very peaceful. Good access to sea and able to hire snorkel and scuba equipment.

Beautiful gardens with magnificent views. Only slight grumble about hotel was the cost of food and drink. As a 5 star hotel we expected high prices but even so they seemed quite steep (even being used to London prices). The food was lovely but didn't quite warrant the cost. It actually worked out a bit cheaper to buy drinks from the minibar in room and food from room service than to eat and drink in the hotel restaurants or bars. We tended to eat out most nights. Plenty of restaurants in the Old Town - find the cable car station and many are on this road and the road behind. We enjoyed Le Jardin and O Regional but all seem to have similar menus.

We really liked Casa Velha which is on Imperatriz D. Amelia (in the shadow of Carlton Park hotel - shame about view). Try the supreme of duck! Gorgeous food and great service.  Nice piano bar underneath restaurant too.
Most restaurants in Lido area seem more touristy and cheaper but nice and close when you can't face the 20-30 min walk into town! We tried the Bombay Palace - nice Indian  Also tried O Drageiro (or something like that) - OK, nothing special, and Casa Italia - v tasty but also v busy so don't go there if you are in a hurry.
We preferred the restaurants in town.

Hotel is in excellent location so you have the choice of going into town or to the Lido area. Ask for map of Funchal from reception. Supermarket only 5mins away - turn left out of hotel, past Crowne Plaza then take 2nd left down hill towards Lido. (Note - the coral beer bottles in supermarket are slightly taller than those in room minibar. Don't drink the nice cool ones from fridge and then substitute them with supermarket ones like we did! They were spotted and we were charged - but hotel doesn't mind you using fridge for own use - we took out most of their bottles and put in loads of water and stuff for lunch. Tap water is fine to drink but needs chilling first).

Lots of building work going on past Lido area - so glad we weren't in one of those hotels that end as rotten noise and views of cranes etc. Many 4 and 5 star hotels along there but didn't look anywhere as nice as Cliff Bay.

The walk to and from town isn't too bad actually and we managed to crack the hill in 5 mins walking home!(Good to walk off the meals) We preferred to go via the S. Caterina park rather than the road. Much prettier and has some good views. Didn't use the hotel courtesy bus as it stops by 6pm so no use for evening. Funchal is a big place but not very picturesque. A few pretty buildings but not great. Looks better after dark when the lights come on! Took us about 30mins to walk from Old Town back to hotel.

Went on the cable car to Monte - very enjoyable.(No need to go on rep organised excursion - we did it ourselves). If you want to go in Tropical gdns at Monte then buy all inclusive tickets at cable car station in Funchal as works out slightly cheaper - 21.50e for return trip and gdn entry, 14e for return trip only or 9e for single. Entrance to gardens is 10e at Monte. We didn't go in Tropical gdns but went for a lovely wander through the hotel grounds opposite. Superb views and free. Would have gone on the toboggan ride but rep previously mentioned we were not covered by insurance if anything happened. Sure all would have been fine but happy to get cable car back down - takes 15mins and fab views of Funchal.

Weather was very hot while we were there - 31C and clear skies in first week, then 27C and slightly cloudier in second week. Tended to cloud up around 12ish then clear again 4ish but actually a welcome relief from the sun. Very hot and sticky when walking around. Jumping in the pool/sea was a fantastic way to cool down. Ended up with amazing tans and no burnt bits! Lovely sea breezes at times especially up at the spa pool area. Evenings very warm - no need for jackets.

All in all, we had a lovely holiday. The Cliff Bay hotel was beautiful and we can't recommend it highly enough. Don't consider going anywhere else.

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Cliff Bay Hotel - Funchal

Operator and Date: (MyTravel Direct) My Travel - Madeira / July 2004

Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : A. Ross - Glasgow

Resort Rating: Average

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

As a single female traveller, I visited the Cliff Bay Hotel in Funchal in July 2004.
The hotel itself has excellent decor and facilities (spa/pool etc). However, I could not recommend it to any single traveller, due to the service in the Rose Garden restaurant, and in other areas of the hotel, where staff were being trained, and also due to the lack of attention from restaurant waiting staff. I was one of only three singles staying in the hotel -  and it felt odd!

Funchal is basically a couples resort, and has little to offer those travellers who are under 50 years old (I am in my forties).
I found the island pretty and floral, however, roads are very steep and winding, and island travel is often slow, due to  continual road building. Shopping in Funchal is limited, and outside of Funchal even more so. Musical events seemed limited.  If you are into Levada walking, or are a couple over 50, this might be the type of quiet holiday place for you.

I recommend single travellers to try Tuscany, in Italy, where there is always plenty happening : shopping /culture/happy Italian people / sunbathing / music etc! I have felt very welcomed there, and not a "minority" tourist as in Madeira!

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Cliff Bay Hotel - Funchal

Operator and Date: Can't remember

Opinion submitted in Feb 2005 by : Lynda Letchford - London 38, 39 & 1

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We booked this as a sort of late honeymoon ,with our 1 year old. Arrival at airport was smooth but we didn't think to take a car seat and the taxi transfer was a bit hairy with a 1 year old sitting between us. 

Hotel was lovely. Excellent swimming pools and spa facilities. Buffet breakfast was enormous and varied from cakes, cereals, waffles to cooked stuff. Although we were given a voucher for the 'posh' restaurant we couldn't use it with our child. Babysitting was a member of staff from behind the reception - not exactly selected for their child handling skills, so not taken up. The hotel was spotlessly clean and the service was excellent whether it was in the bars or restaurant. If your child is on pasturised milk, madeira doesn't have it, only long life. We took some tinned powdered stuff and used bottled water. Two supermarkets nearby, both reasonable but a bit smelly.  

Chinese restaurant under the lido was brilliant and the estpetada (not sure of the spelling) which is the local dish is fantastic.  It is a skewer of beef dripping iwth garlic etc. to die for ! We hired a car for a couple of days and went to the north of the island which was interesting but the weather across the island does vary. The hotel does have a childrens play room which has toys in it but is unsupervised (near the spa). 

The walk into town is very pleasant, there are some nice cafes to sit outside and let the world go by, owners were more than happy to provide hot jugs of water for warming milk and jars of food up. The walk back is uphill, you can get a bus, there are some nice gardens and side streets etc. to distract you from the walk. At least 20 minutes though. Fish market is a sight to see. 

There were time share people hovering on the bridge into town but they didn't bother us, probably because they saw we had a baby with us - apparently they are a bit of a pain. The reids palace hotel was recommended for afternoon tea but the cakes and tea int he hotel are gorgeous.  Last but not least the cable car up to the top and gardens are very relaxing but don't try to come down in the "basket sofa" on cruise ship day as the queues are horrendous.   

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Cliff Bay Hotel - Funchal

Operator and Date: Self arranged flew Palmair Bournemouth - Date Not Specified

Opinion submitted in Jan 2004 by : Mike and Monica Edwards (53,50)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We have visited Madeirsa twice and the reason for including this review is opartly to say how wonderful this site is - it has helped us sort out our Sorrento accommodation for 2004.

Madeira is fabulous and the Cliff Bay is the best hotel we have stayed in anywhere in the world. Service impeccable and fabuloius views.

Yes Madeirans are mad drivers - the taxi ride from the airport is a scream and the landing comments one reviewer made are spot on - I was in the cabing for a few minutes on one flight and the senior pilot for the airline said Funchal is the most difficult to land at because of crosswinds (and we have landed in Corfu in a thunderstorm!!).

Do hire a car though and drive the eastern side of the island, the scenery is simply breathtaking expecially the northern coast.

The wicker basket was another reason for reviewing - don't be put off after my wife was nearly ill on the cable car the toboggan sdaved the day. Not cheap but well worth every hair raising second.

Finally you must go to Reeds Palace for the afternoon tea, but don't try and get in with shorts on, you'll be thrown out!!

Finally the restaurant just at the top of the hotel drive, little square place can't remember the name is excellent and the terrace at Reeds Trattoria is sensational.

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Crowne Plaza - Funchal

Operator and Date: Atlantic Holidays July 2004

Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : 56,49,20,16

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Spent a wonderful week at the Crowne Plaza Funchal from 26 July 2004 to 2 August 2004. 2 Adults 49, 54 plus two sons 20 and 16. (Were due to have gone to Mexico but had to cancel due to family illness so this was booked within 7 days of travelling - Excel Airways via Atlantic Holidays from the UK)

We arrived during a very unusual heatwave - had been 38C the day before we arrived and was like that for a couple of days. The air conditioning in the reception area couldn't cope but our rooms were so cool it was wonderful. The view of the ocean was really relaxing.

The rooms are large and have either 2 full double beds or a super king size. The hotel was very clean and towels were changed every day. It was quiet as the usual influx of Spanish and Portugese to the Island had apparently tailed off after the intro of the Euro. No problem at all getting sun beds with cushions and one towel per person + parasol all free.

Very hilly isalnd so not recommended for infirm but views are spectacular.

Piano in cocktail bar for evening and nice terrace overlooking the ocean - very peaceful. Not for those wanting wild evening partying.

Great breakfast buffet- eggs, bacon etc, fruit, yogurt, cereal, bread, cake, bucks fizz etc etc - just about anything you could want..

Staff very helpful and no commission changing Euro travellers cheques at reception.

Diving school if you like.

Table tennis, billiard table, tennis, squash, indoor pool, lovely outdoor pools at sea level accessed by lift. Salt water and very clean. Attendants on hand all day.

Old town good for meals and some good restaurants locally - try Moby Dick's - 5 minutes walk. Fish is plentiful and great quality.

Ordered boxes of flowers via rep for transport back to UK. Packed beautifully and go in hold of plane. Arrived in wonderful condition.

Cable car in Funchal good.

One of the European Rally races was going on that week and that added another interest - some of the drivers used the hotel.

A great break - younger son loved the robes and slippers in the room + TV sound channellled into bathroom!!

Beds comforable - slept really well.

Great holiday for those looking for a first class hotel, bit of sport, lovely scenery and nice climate.

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Crowne Plaza - Funchal

Operator and Date: May 2004

Opinion submitted in June 2004 by : Ray & Gill Gough - Reading (54 & 45)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Madeira is the most beautiful place I have ever seen, make sure you take some trips around the island rather than just staying in your hotel.  

I recommend the west coast tour and, if you only do one, the half day tour to The Valley of the Nuns - the scenery is spectacular!  One word of warning.  Funchal is dotted with "Information Centres", but apart from the official one in the town centre they are all fronts for hotels seling time-shares on rooms and apartments.  They all offer tours and trips for a very reasonable price, but to get the voucher for the reduced price you will need to atend a time share presentation.  They say it will only take 90 minutes, but be prepared to give up half a day of your holiday - Madeirans don't rush anything.  For trips without the hassle visit Strawberry World, either on-line or at their shop in the Monumental Lido shopping centre.

The Crowne Plaza is a very nice hotel, clean, comfortable, with helpful staff, but it is very modern in design and might be a little stark for some tastes.  But, as I said, don't stay in your hotel explore the Paradise Island.

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Crowne Plaza - Funchal

Operator and Date: (Airtours Direct) Airtours Feb 2004

Opinion submitted in Mar 2004 by : Ann Wallace  46

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

I've been to Madeira several times before, loving it as a quiet, safe haven with such beautiful scenery and friendly people.  Weather late Feb about 18 - 20C and a bit overcast.  This time I was a single traveller prefering sun to skiing with my partner.  No problem with this in Madeira!  And Airtours didn't charge me single supplements and provided transfers as well.

The Crown Plaza bills itself as minimilist by design.  Personally I prefer a bit more lavishness, and found the colour scheme too harsh,  thinking they could do with a few pictures in the room etc.  Having said that,I was very comfortable although I think the rooms are small in comparision to the other 5* hotels.  The Queen size beds were supportive.  I know some rooms have a King size bed.  The lighting in the room was excellent with ceiling spot lights etc..  The wooden floor is great for those with asthma and allergy problems, and I had no trouble getting a non smoking room.  

The bathroom was cramped but had all the facilities as described.  The shower screen got in the way for reaching the shower control and taps, so someone less agile would have to get in the bath and get wet!  Free safe, 2 small bottles a day of mineral water, and tea/coffee with kettle were good news, although Ideal milk provided, but no hot chocolate.  I managed to get some ordinary milk for my tea (without extra charge) and kept this in the mini bar.  Airtours had provided a basket of fruit and bottle of wine as well.  Drying line, ironing board, scales, slippers and robe also provided.  Great to have some Movie Channels for free too.  Hairdryer blow nozzle type but did have 3 speeds and a shaver socket (if you need one!.....err I don't).  Very quiet, no road noise or other problems, although I should think that if you were in a room over the foyer the music from the cocktail bar would keep you awake but it doesn't go on too late.  One evening there was a free drink and nibbles for guests.  The hotel's own intro meeting also provided refreshments but the hotel site tour came 3 days later!  With the unusual twin tower layout, it would be better on first day.

The gym was very well equipped, and hardly used.  It had a CD player and video as well.  Sauna, Steam and jacuzzi area good.  Indoor pool is unusual as it goes outside as well.  Sea platform lovely.  Towels provided everywhere.  Spa customers have a private pool, although prices high e.g. e55 for 45 mins massage.

No courtesy bus very strangely for 5*, but bus is about e1 open return if you buy in advance from shop up the hill.  If you go on hotel's trip to the Market, book early.  Breakfasts were excellent but take your own teabags if you like tasty tea and ask for very hot water.

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Crowne Plaza - Funchal

Operator and Date: STRAWBERRY WORLD - 2004

Opinion submitted in Sept 2004 by : CAROL GALLOGLY - LONDON

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

The best part of this week long holiday was the ease and speed of booking.  Found Strawberry World on the net and was amazed at how much cheaper their holidays were compared to all the UK operators.  Flights, transfer and hotel were confirmed within hours; the easiest holiday I have ever booked.

Flights were with TAP Air Portugal from LGW, quick and easy check-in; Strawberry World Rep met us and drove us to hotel, very comfortable mini-bus.  Hotel staff were excellent and offered a first class service.

Room was clean and comfortable.  Bathroom bit small and is the one area that might need updating.  However, the service offered by the staff well made up for any misgivings in the bathroom.

Weather was lovley (4 - 11 Sep) and holiday in general was great.

Would certainly use Strawberry World again. Excellent service!

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Dorisol Mimosa Hotel - Funchal

Operator and Date: Med Hotels On the Beach July 2007

Opinion submitted in July 2007 by : Shaz and Liam Doncaster (24,33)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

As you drive from the airport to the resort of Funchal all you see are clean streets and pretty plantations. Crisp clean white houses with terracota roofs line the sloping streets. Everything is immaculate and beautifully kept.

Although the hotel itself is on a steep slope, a coach will drop you off directly to the door, saving your legs, as will most taxis. Upon arrival at the hotel friendly staff meet you and offer clear instructions as well as handing you leaflets and information on local attractions and the courtesy buses. The hotel entrance is as clean as the rest of the resort and information is listed in several languages.

The room is well equipped and mose than adequate for any length of stay, however on our first night there was a large amount of bugs in the room that fortunately disappeared after the first night. The bathroom was very well thought out with one of the best showers I have ever used. The maids did a good job on the room however never came at the same time of day so it was very hard to judge when they would be arriving, however with the do not disturb sign on the door they dd surprisingly come back in the afternoon to do the room.

Due to other reviews about the food at this particular hotel, we only went on a b and b basis, and we were very glad that we did. Although the restaurant was clean and tidy and the food adequate it was extremely basic and very little variety throughout the week.

There are a number of bars and restaurants  within walking distance of the hotel, offering a wide choice from Indian to Italian to the more traditional Portugese dishes.

The games room felt very dark and isolated, and didn't feel like a place that I would like to spend much time, plus it wasn't the cheapest.

The pool and pool area were splendid, plenty of room, lots of sun and very quiet and relaxing. Plus the views from the loungers was breathtaking. The water was nicely warm meaning that it was refreshing enough to cool off but warm enough to not go into shock upon going in.

Didn't really stay for any of the entertainment because to be honest it did not look to be worth hanging around for.

There was a balcony off the room however the building works directly outside made it very hard to relax sat out there and at times the noise was so unbearable that we felt forced to leave the room- however this would not put us off the hotel.

Although it gives the impression of being a rich man's paradise, it is incredibly reasonable both for eating out and in fact for shopping.

Funchal itself is well kept and friendly. Rich with shops and eateries, plus lots of activities such as boat trips and helicopter rides at reasonable prices. There are also Levada walks and coach trips for those that want to see more of the island.

There are no beaches in the area however there are lidos that offer an interesting new experience at a small cost.

All in all would greatly reccommend and will probably go back ourselves!

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Dorisol Mimosa Hotel - Funchal

Operator and Date: Thompson - 2007

Opinion submitted in June 2007 by : Erik and Helen, 38, 30

Resort Rating: Good

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

The hotel is a thirty Euro taxi ride from the airport.  It is also at the top of a steep drive that started on a steep hill and went up.  Our room was higher still, being on the ninth floor of eleven.  The lifts were good, if small.

Our room was clean and of a fair size.  It came with a television (BBC World and Canal Hollywood in English), a sea view balcony, a fridge and ants.  There was though no ceiling fan, mini bar, bathrobes or separate shower from the bath.  The maid came every day, didn't steal anything and made up our twin beds as a double after we had duct taped them together.

The two ring cooking facilities (no grill, toaster, kettle, oven or microwave) were poorly equipped.  Washing up liquid and a tea towel were provided - although this may have been to remind the guest how much easier it is to eat in the restaurant.  While the reasonably priced supermarket was not far as the crow falls, it was almost at sea level.  Nothing (except perhaps a heart attack) was going to put us off cooking once we had lugged the groceries all the way up to the room.

While the above may come across as a little negative, I would recommend the hotel as the views were great from the balcony, the breakfast was great from the basement and the shuttle bus was a reliable air conditioned coach from the slope right out side.

The entire place is sign written in English and Portuguese, although the guests tended to be German and old enough to be our parents (we are in our thirties).  The sign on the inside of the door to our room laid out certain hotel rules in four languages but only in English was it allowed to take towels and pillows from the room.

The whole complex is wonderfully devoid of children.  We thought that we saw one on the second day but when we got closer it was just a dwarf.

At no point did we have to show our pass card, there were 1002 beans in the jar and don't bother with the parrot show.

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Eden Mar Suite Hotel - Funchal

Operator and Date: First Choice - July 2007

Opinion submitted in July 2007 by : Helen & Clive (59 & 58)

Resort Rating: Good

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We had two weeks at Eden Mar from July 9th to July 23rd.

The Hotel itself and the Staff were wonderful.  Our room had a lounge and separate bedroom with a small kitchen behind folding doors. Two televisions with a very good selection of Chanels which is most unusual as most resorts in Spain, Majorca and Portugal only have local and German chanels. Not that we were watching telly all the time but used to get the news on BBC or Sky to keep up with things at home while we were dressing for the evening.
The pools were fantastic and never seemed teeming with people although there were many people there.  Because of the space with the three buildings it never seemed crowded like some resots we have been to.

Sunbeds a pleny and free. We didnt have to reserve one by placing our towels down hours before although some people just cant kick the habit! There were areas just for sun worshipers away from the pool and two outdoor bar areas, a smaller one at Eden Mar and the larger one at Porto Mar, we often had a snack lunch here which was very nice, toasties come complete with chips and salad and the Spag. Bol is very tasty.  It is more expensive than outside the Hotel but the service and food is better so you get what you pay for.

The evening entertainment was however very disappointing, everyone tried their best but half an hour from 9 to 9.30pm with a quiz, bingo or Parrot Show was not quite enough.  Then the main act you had been waiting for only played for about three quarters of an hour.  This meant that at around 10.30/10.45 the evenings entertainment was over. This consited of: Monday, Magician, Tuesday,Fado Singing (Portugese) Wednesday, Madeiran Singing Group (Happy Clappy stuff) Thursday, Folklore of Madeira, Friday Kareoke (Mostly by drunken Holiday Makers)Modern Dance Act (Ballet & Jazz dancing)Sunday Opera/Songs from the Shows by British Male Singer.

Not exactly what my Husband and I enjoy and we mostly sat outside on the Terrace having a drink.Although we are nearly 60 we enjoy live bands and a bit of Rock or Soul Music but could find nothing nearby like this. We even asked some of the staff and was directed to one Pub/Restaurant up the hill but when we got there on evening it was closed for their Summer Holidays until 1st August!!!  The drinks - if you like a Beer are very limited with only Coral Beer or bottled Ordinary Guiness and Export Carlsberg both of which we didnt like as we are used to Draght so we stuck with the local ones. 

The local Restaurants were reasonably OK with the nearby Chinese "Grande Mundo" being one of our favourite haunts, we went there three times in our 14 days and each time the food was good, the price very reasonable and the Service excelent.  The local Indian however was very expensive and the food non-discript.
We thought it was a rip-off and did not return and would not recommend it. The best restaurant that we found was up the hill from the hotel, across the Main road and up the hill on the right past the Fish Restaurant. You will see a large Black Doorman in what looks like a Harrods Doorman outfit and he is very friendly and offers you a drink of Madeira or Brandy while you look at the menu.  It is in a very pretty garden and the food was very good.  We again went there three times and one night had Steak on a Stone which was wonderful and tender, I am not a lover of Steak but ate every bit of this and you can cook it yourself to your own liking.

We went on the "Sea Pleasures" Catamaran and actually found Dolphins which brought tears to my eyes and was very professionally looked after by the three young men sailing her. We have had boat trips in Spain and Lanzarote where they think it is funny to throw tourists around the boat by sailing too fast and quite dangerously but this was very well handled and informative about the Dolphins and the surrounding views and history.  All in all it was a lovely break and if you are looking to totally relax then this is the place for you but if you want a bit more life in your evenings dont go to Madeira. 

If you do go to this Hotel I dont think you will be disappointed with the service or surroundings, they are beautiful and go see Carlos in the Atlantico Bar for one of his wonderful cocktails and he will cheer you up!!

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Eden Mar Suite Hotel - Funchal

Operator and Date: thomson june 2007

Opinion submitted in July 2007 by : John Matthews age 55

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Excellent hotel ..the whole complex is huge..joined onto Porto Mare hotel and use of all swiming pools.

the down side is timeshare touts in the streets.  Also we booked a few tours with our tour operator and some with Strawberry world ( across the road)  Having been on the east tour with strawberry world and then after the west side with Thomson..got to say Thomsons were a bit more expensive but worth every penny...much better tour. My wife hurt her leg on the east with strawberry world and we were just left ..thats when you see the difference.

would say its better sometimes to go with the tour operator...you get what you pay for!   

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Eden Mar Suite Hotel - Funchal

Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - Sep 2006

Opinion submitted in May 2007 by : Annette and Mark - Peterborough (46,44)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We spent a week here while celebrating our Silver Wedding anniversary. Could not fault the hotel or the resort. We ate out at different restaurants every evening, there are loads to choose from and most are reasonable. We used the hotel courtesy bus several times to go into Funchal where there is plenty to do and see. We went on the open-air bus trip which was very good and we also braved the wicker toboggan ride which is not as bad as it looks! We went on an excellent trip around the East side of the island which we booked direct with Strawberry World (Found just under Hotel Monumental Lido). We didn't see our Thomas Cook rep while we were there so just did our own trips,everyone speaks very good English so it is easy to organise things yourself.

The hotel itself is in a very good location with shops, bank and restaurants in easy walking distance. Turn left from the front of the hotel and walk about half a mile or so and you come to a lovely, small, newly built shopping centre with some designer shops. The weather was hotter than we expected, in the 80's and my husband suffered from sunburn on his legs so remember the suncream! We had a lovely holiday and wished we could have stayed for longer-we are returning to Madeira again this year but different hotel and resort just to compare.

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Eden Mar Hotel - Funchal

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Thomson June 2006

Opinion submitted in July 2006 by : Roy and Helen (65, 51)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

The Eden Mar is ideal for a quiet holiday in a good location. It is one of three hotels in the same group within the same grounds (Porto Atlantico and The Residence) and all facilities are available to all hotels.  It's about 30 minutes walk from the centre of Funchal and 100m from the Lido.  The area is quiet and so is the Eden Mar.  While we were there the entertainment took place at the Porto Atlantico so the Eden remained quiet even in the evenings.  In the complex there are several places to eat, only one of which serves buffet meals and the dinner allowance for a la carte at the others does not buy much.

The staff at the Eden Mar are very friendly, helpful and efficient and speak good English and the food choice is very good.  A room with a sea view is definitely preferable.

The hotel certainly lives up to its Thomson 4 star rating and, when we were there, there were plenty of sunbeds at all times with towels provided by the hotel.  Although Madeira, with no real beaches, is not our normal type of holiday, if we returned there we would have no hesitation in choosing the Eden Mar again.

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Eden Mar Suite Hotel - Funchal

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Thomson Price Breaker - June 2004

Opinion submitted in July 2004 by : Jennifer McAlpine - Coatbridge (52, 47, 19, 9)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We went on a thomson price breaker and ended up in this hotel.This was the best hotel we have stayed in, in Madeira. It is ideally located in the hotel district, two minutes walk from the supermarket and the lido. As this hotel is part of the villa porto mare complex a huge courtesy bus ran into funchal on weekdays. The rooms are huge and beautiful, all with a sea and pool view. Bathrobes, pool towels, toiletries are all supplied. Rooms are cleaned every day and beds changed every two days. 

Communal areas are fab, there are two outdoor and two indoor pools which are all beautifully maintained. There is also a shaded garden area for shade seakers. Staff are all friendly, especially Ricardo! As far as eating out goes, we recommend solar da ajuda as the food is delicious (try the steak on the stone) and the staff are lovely, they also offer a children's menu and cater for all tastes.It can be foundjust up the side of the hotel monumental lido.

Entertainment wise we would recommend heading over to the monumental lido on a wednesday and sunday to see the hot dancers and the lovely Marco. Madeira is a beautiful island but this hotel makes a nice holiday a brilliant holiday. In all rooms there are kitchen facilities, good for a cup of tea at the end of the night.

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Estalagem Quintinha de Sao Joao - Funchal

Operator and Date: Direct with the Hotel

Opinion submitted in Aug 2005 by : Douglas  and Eileen Batten (73, 66)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

QUINTINHA SAO JOAO

If all-singing, all-dancing activities are what you are looking for in a holiday, then read no further because that is not what you will get. Situated within easy walking distance to the centre of Funchal, this family-run hotel is one which, with a little imagination, will transport you back to yesteryear with its clever use of wood and marble. Because of the steepness of streets and roads back to the hotel we advise that one of the plentiful and reasonably priced yellow and blue taxis be hired. Alternatively, a courtesy bus is provided.

We have just completed our tenth visit to the hotel, so we think we can speak with some authority and give an unbiased opinion on what the Quintinha Sao Joao [hereafter QSJ] has to offer the discerning guest.

First impressions are of a clean and not overpowering frontage leading into a cool, marble-floored reception area. Here we encounter one of the many features of the QSJ-the management's decision to encourage all staff to converse with their guests. We have patronised many European hotels but none have matched this, to us, very important factor, although some have come close. Off the reception area is the first-class La Morgandinha restaurant where there is an excellent menu and where breakfast (self-service) is laid up. A good selection of local wines is available. If you have no knowledge of Maderian wines, don't worry-the restaurant manager will advise you.

Leaving Reception, with its marble staircase to the upper floors and a lift, we come to the lounge area, which can only be adequately described as elegant. The Maderian love of wood and design has been tastefully incorporated with antique or reproduction furniture. Comfortable armchairs and settees are placed in strategic positions.

From the lounge we descend marble steps into the magnificent Vasco de Gamma bar with its superb dark hardwood floor. Again there is comfortable seating and a grand piano is a feature. The bar opens out on to the terrace and gardens and it is here that we spend a lot of our time making new acquaintances.

Ascending to the first floor we have another feature of the hotel-a lounge area on the landing (repeated on the second floor), again comfortably furnished. Also on this floor there is a roof-top swimming pool overlooking the gardens. All bedrooms are en suite, generous in size, extremely well appointed and very clean and comfortable.

For those clients who like to keep fit a fitness centre and games room are situated on the lower ground floor; in the garden there is a tennis court.

To summarise: In our view, having travelled considerably, we have in the QSJ a first-class hotel, worth every one of its five stars. Nothing is too much trouble for the staff, all professional in their approach and very well trained.

 Over the years we have attempted to find an adequate word or phase that encapsulates the atmosphere of the QSJ. During our last visit we realised that the QSJ is not a hotel as we know it but a ''private family club'', with high standards of service, comfort, attention to detail and quiet efficiency.

Welcome to the family of the Quintinha Sao Joao.

Eileen and Douglas Batten, Exmouth, England

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Hotel Estrelicia - Funchal

Operator and Date: (Airtours Direct) Airtours August 2006

Opinion submitted in August 2006 by : Anthony Morris - Newcastle 38, 36

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

A lovely place to visit and I would highly recommend Madeira to anyone. The hotel is situated at the top of a steep bank which may not be suitable for people with walking difficulties (we struggled at times). The hotel provides a free bus service into the centre of Funchal several times a day. The hotel is pleasant and the meals were very good, the one downside to the hotel is the lack of air conditioning. 

A lovely holiday the one downside being a 20 hrs delay on the outbound journey.

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Hotel Estrelicia - Funchal

Operator and Date: Atlantic Holidays - SEP 2004

Opinion submitted in Oct 2004 by : M. Lynch (29, 31)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

The hotel itself is located about 20 minutes walk from the Marina area of Funchal.  We found the hotel to be very clean and tidy, rooms were well designed and of good quality, each room has a sea view due to the position of the hotel.

The hotel is positioned on a very steep hill,    but the courtesy bus will drop people back at the top when coming back from funchal.

Restaurants are plentiful in funchal, and one of the best is just around the corner from the hotel namely the white house restaurant / pub.  Offering superb food at very reasonable prices.  Another good restaurant was the Mediterraneo restaurant above strawberry world.

All in all a very nice place to go and very relaxing, I can highly recommend the hotel also.

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Hotel Girassol - Funchal

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Thomson December  Xmas/ New year2006

Opinion submitted in May 2007 by : Mick and Paul 65 plus

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We were pleased with the reception on our arrival very friendly and welcoming.  Our room was clean and well set out and was on the 7th floor overlooking the pool which gave a great view out to sea.  The dining room was well organised and waiters to seat you, the food was average but nothing outstanding.  Christmas dinner was a disapointment as it was served on Christmas Eve and was nothing special no wine or drinks on table and for the price we paid that was the least we expected Father Christmas paid a visit and gave every person a present.  New years Eve dinner was totally different a real treat with wine or drinks and every thing that you could want and the service by the waiters especially Orlando who was our waiter was exemplary. After dinner we all went up to the rooftop to watch the fireworks which was the best fireworks show that we have ever seen and must have cost a fortune and we were given local wine and champagne.

The Island of Madeira is very hilly and unless you are quite mobile it is hard to get around as there are not many flat areas we hired a Taxi for a couple of days and the drivers name was Manuel and a more helpfull person we could not have got he knew all the history as we were driving along and kept us well informed.  We recomended him to another couple and they wrote and thanked us when we got home because of the service they received from him. We walked into Funchal several times which took about 30mins and we walked along the coast out of town but it is so hilly the views are fantastic though and well worth the effort.  You can take a cable car from Funchal up the mountains and slide down on a tobogan if you are brave enough but we were not We would go back again if we were younger but it is just to much
Mick

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Hotel Girassol - Funchal

Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - August 2005

Opinion submitted in Aug 2005 by : Lorraine Stevenage - Middlesex (44,43,12,9)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Madeira is a beautiful island, the Hotel Girassol was a delight to stay in, the food in the hotel was outstanding as where the staff.  They were friendly and helpful.  The rooms in the hotel were adequate for a three star hotel.   The weather was sometimes cloudy, but overall hot and sunny.   We found the holiday a success.  (One point, the island is extremely hilly, therefore, becareful if you are planning to hire a car).  I would definately go back to Madeira again.

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Hotel Girassol - Funchal

Operator and Date: Atlantic Holidays  -  December 2004

Opinion submitted in Jan 2005 by : Phil & Alison Emmerton (49 - 50)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

The hotel was very clean and staff excellent, pool area excellent, heated pool, with free towels and soft covers for the sun beds.
The bedroom must have been the biggest we have ever stayed in with a serarate lounge and balcony over looking the sea
Lots of draws and hanging space for clothes.
I can also recommend the tour company who seemed to be a lot cheaper than the big tour operators.
We went over xmas, some holiday makers were worried about places to eat on Xmas day, but there was still a lot of restaurants open.

The only gripe I have is that on B&B we wasn't included in the Xmas eve gala, last year at a different hotel we was, To be included in the Gala would have cost 120 euro's and that wouldn't include drinks. But I'm glade we didn't go as the meal started at 7.30pm and guests were coming into the bar at 9.30 - 10.00 who still had not had their main course.

The location of the hotel is good but the road outside is very busy and we did get a little road noise into our room at night as we were at the front.

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Gouveia Apartments - Funchal

Operator and Date: FIRST CHOICE - MAY 2006

Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : MRS LUIS - WINDSOR (37, 27, 6)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Average

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We are frequent visitors to Madeira and stay in hotels but decided that for a change we'd try self-catering.

The First Choice description of this accommodation said it was "set in a peaceful hillside setting, with a wonderful, friendly atmosphere. 2kms walk from Funchal Old Town."

THE REALITY
There were three building sites in very close proximity to our apartments. Noise, heavy vehicles and dust were the order of the day. School at end of street added to the traffic. Blind bend outside property neccesiated all vehicles to sound their horn to warn oncoming vehicles. On main bus route (handy but noisy).

DOGS - Barking all day and night. You could'nt relax by the bath-sized swimming freezing pool in peace, let alone sleep at night!!! Owner not sympathetic and told me it was the moon. What? For 7 days and nights!!!

Walk into Funchal - very steep with no pavement for 3/4 of way. Not for the faint hearted, those with walking difficulties or children.

No water for 3 afternoons without any explanation or apology. My guess is the owner and First Choice were aware of this but neglected to tell us. Municipal work was also being carried out by the school, which may have caused this.

An elderly couple suffered an attempted robbery whilst in their apartment. Credit cards etc... They told us the owner said he'd reported it to the police but no one ever showed up to take a statement etc... Very odd.

After my son was rather harshly told off for touching the hosepipe connected to the poolside shower, we decided we'd had enough. If he does'nt want families staying at his apartments then he should say so. Madeirans really like children so this guy was an exception.
Went to First Choice first thing on the Monday and asked to put in a hotel (any hotel)!!! Charged for the privilege but worth it to get out of that place.Our second week was bliss.
I would not recommend the Gouveia.

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Hotel Gorgulho - nr Funchal

Operator and Date: Transun - Sept 2004

Opinion submitted in Oct 2004 by : 58

Resort Rating: Good

Accommodation Rating: Average

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Just back from 1st visit to Madeira Sept 04.
The hotel(Gorgulho) was edequate, the problem we did have was due to traffic noise and the DOGS from nearby houses.

Watch out for the touts from Hotels they are good at enticing you in to a 90 min presentation etc on the premice of cut price island tours,etc.The presentation usually lasts for 3-4 hours (be warned)
You also get restaurant waiters touting as well as taxis, I guess this is the norm for Madeira.
Altogether we had a good time and would go back again, a little bit wiser.

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Hotel Imperatriz - Funchal

Operator and Date: Co Operative - May 2006

Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : Jean Metherall ( 65,63 )

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We have just returned from a weeks holiday in Madeira,what a beautifull Island.The flowers at  this time of year are spectacular.

The Hotel Imperatriz is a small hotel situated just around the corner from the Casino in a small back street next door to a nightclub. There were only 27 rooms each with a small Kitchenette hidden in a cupboard.The room was basic but well furnished and very comfortable.The balcony was very small but with a lovely view of the Mountain in the background.The only thing the room lacked was air conditioning there wasnt even a fan which was needed as it was quite hot.

We had booked Bed and Breakfast but after the first morning we catered for ourselves.The breakfast was served in a restuarant next door to the hotel. There was a little old man who pointed at us and motioned us to the buffet which consisted of one roll each with a slice of cheese and ham.He asked if we wanted tea or coffee and when the tea came it was so weak it was undrinkable there was no milk and when we asked for some it was long life  milk not fresh infact that was the only type of milk on the island.
The receptionists at the hotel were very friendly and helpfull.

We had a very enjoyable weeks holiday and we shall hopefully go back again. We went up in the cable car and on a trip around the East of the island keeping ourselves busy untill the following Saturday and we left for our second week in Lisbon.

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Hotel Jardins d'Ajuda - Funchal

Operator and Date: Mercury Direct - Janaury 2006

Opinion submitted in Feb 2006 by : Sue Holland - Alton (57,57)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Stayed for 3 enjoyable weeks,last month.

Hotel was excellent. Our room was upgraded to a suite with nice bedroom, bathroom, lounge with settee and t.v kitchenette with fridge,hob and cutlery and crockery.Balcony overlooking the pool and attractive gardens. Rooms cleaned daily and towels changed too. I used the indoor pool and sauna, and steamroom daily.
Restaurant was fine. Buffet hot and cold breakfasts. Buffet dinner - Soup, lovely salads, and choice of 2 hot meals ( 1 fish 1 Meat) puddings were lovely and the reason I am now on a diet.
We used Courtesy bus to Funchal quite a lot, and also used the local buses to get to Botanical Gardens, Monte, Nuns Valley etc.
The Forum shopping mall is only a couple of minutes away from hotel, and had some nice shops plus supermarket for stocking the fridge in the room.

Most people were staying for a month or longer and everyone we spoke to was very happy with the Hotel, several had been there last year too. However we all paid the brochure price, and picked this hotel.
People who opt for last minute allocation on arrival should expect to get the less attractive rooms etc.

Madeira is a lovely island and the climate is very pleasant even in January it was nice and warm most days, and although we did have some rain it did not interfere with our plans at all. My best memory is all the dolphins we saw whilst on a catamaran trip on a lovely sunny Saturday. I am sure we will return again, and will
probably use the same hotel, as the price we paid would be hard to beat. 

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Hotel Jardins d'Ajuda - Funchal

Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice June 2004

Opinion submitted in June 2004 by : Rae & Sue Jardine (60 just and 49)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

I read the above reports after having booked so was prepared for the worst. We requested a lower floor as my wife is unable to use lifts. On arrival we were allocated 9th floor. Let battle commence I thought but surprise. They were really helpful and friendly, found a room on the 5th floor but offered to find us a lower one the next day. As reception is on the 3rd there were not many stairs so no problem.

ROOMS. Spotless, beautiful, large double twin,ample storage,wardrobe in hall which led to a full size lounge with sofa bed, armchairs, table and chairs,desk, tele etc and fully carpeted throughout.Kitchenette behind foldaway doors, full size fridge, plates, saucepans, 2 hos, sink and all crockery etc. Very nice full size bathroom. Balcony full width of 2 rooms also with table & chairs. Lovely view over pool and pretty gardens.

POOLSIDE Ample sun beds very clean very tidy. Sun brolleys 1.25e per day. Poolside bar, nice snacks inside or out, Drinks (happy hour 5.30 - 6.30 buy one get one free !!)not expensive. waitress service around pool.

MADERIA.A beautiful island, fantastic landscape and views, flowers everywhere.
Good bus service. Did one conducted tour. very good. Hired car 1 day, driving is easy. Jeep Safari, very enjoyable.

EATING OUT Look for tourist menus. Good 3 course meal 9 euros. Casino..see the floorshow, have a meal.

REVISIT. Already looking forward to it. Same hotel? certainly.
Hotel on allocation? I don't think so but if you want cheap deals you have to expect cheaper rooms.

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Madeira Carlton - Funchal

Operator and Date: Expedia - April 2007

Opinion submitted in April 2007 by : Tracy McCaughan - Jersey (40,39,06)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

A beautiful island and a central hotel. Building work on neighbouring property so very very noisy in Mountain View Room. Offered another room for 50 euros extra per day. Charge for tea/coffee supplies after day one and charge for umbrellas by the pool. not what you would expect from 5* hotel. Rooms spotless, spacious and lovely decor. To dine we would highly recomment the excellent food and service across the road at the Red Lion Restaurant. Loved Madeira, very clean and friendly. Disappointed with the hotel.

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Madeira Palacio - Funchal

Operator and Date: Own Booking - Jan 2005

Opinion submitted in May 2005 by : Reevy - Exeter 50,50

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

This is a splendid hotel (one of the best we have used anywhere in the world) and this is the fourth time we have stayed there. It is a five star that thoroughly deserves its rating. Its rooms are excellent, with top class facilities and wonderful views.

The hotel has a nice garden, indoor and outdoor heated pools, two tennis courts, jacuzzi, steam room, sauna etc.

The staff are quite excellent and very attentive without getting in the way. The restaurants at the hotel are a bit expensive by Madeira standards, but quite excellent and cheap compared with UK standards. Locally there are a few restaurants and the walk into Funchal, where there are a lot (the hotel provides an hourly bus)is very pleasant.

There are 'regulars' who go the same time every year and get to know one another. That can be daunting!

Madeira is quiet. It is not a good place for young children, lacking as it does sandy beaches. It is also very steep, so if you walk with difficulty, go somewhere else. It has little night life, so is basically brilliant for a quiet break. It is also very beautiful (visiting other areas on the island is well worth the effort) and safe.

I find it hard to imagine how anyone could regard the Palacio as anything other than a splendid experience, unless of course you want clubbing, drinking competitions, karaoke etc, in which case Madeira is not for you.

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Madeira Panoramico Hotel - Funchal

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Thomson - Dec 2003/Jan 2004

Opinion submitted in Jan 2004 by : Bryan and Anne Weir 55 and  53

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

My wife and I have just returned from Madeira after spending two weeks there over the New Year. Our hotel, the Madeira Panoramico in Funchal, was absolutely brilliant and I cannot speak highly enough of the facilities and level of service we received.

Although we were only B&B the New Year's eve gala dinner was included and this was the highlight of the holiday for us. The hotel provided an excellent meal with great food then gave us a free bar until midnight! At midnight we all went on the roof for a panoramic view of the breathtaking firework display - one of the best if not the best that I have ever seen - amazing!

The weather while we were there was superb but I understand that we were very fortunate as it was better than normal for the time of year. We had more or less constant sunshine and temperatures between 66 and 72 for two weeks with only one shower of rain.

Madeira is not for those who li