The Perfect Island all year round
Madeira Island Guide
The colorful island of Madeira is one of Portugal's most enchanting locations, made up of a series of dramatic volcanic peaks rising from the sea, covered in carpets of forests and exotic wildlife. It lies around 600 km (373 miles) off the west coast of Morocco, ensuring a balmy year-round temperature that’s enhanced by the warm Atlantic currents.
It invites you to be adventurous with its hiking trails, impressive waterfalls, and mountain biking at the Laurissilva Forest. Or totally switching off with a morning yoga on top of mountain to indulging yourself with the freshest seafood and exotic fruits. See below a few of our suggestions for your next trip to the island.
Where to stay?
The Landmarks: Reid’s Palace has been welcoming guests for over 130 years, a luxurious 5* property with 163 rooms and array of facilities. To Savoy Palace, also luxurious yet modern vibe property with 352 rooms, but with daring facilities like the Galaxy rooftop.
Distinct Hotels: Portobay Les Suites, unique 5* hotel with 23 luxurious suites overlooking the Funchal Bay, not to mention it’s 2 gourmet restaurants. In the heart of Funchal, you’ll find Castanheira Boutique Hotel, exclusive hotel concept with 81 rooms, comprises five historically classified buildings that lead guests on a journey through 3 centuries of the island. One of the newest edition is Barceló Funchal Oldtown, opening in April of 2023, also in the center of Funchal with 111 rooms spread across six historical buildings from the 17th century. Featuring two restaurants, rooftop bar with breathtaking view of Atlantic Ocean and Funchal Cathedral.
Meeting Facilities: A fabulous 5* property with 300 rooms, 7 meeting rooms, phenomenal convention center, 5 restaurants and 2 bars, Vidamar hotel has perfect conditions for your next meeting. On the other hand, Melia Mare is a modern option featuring 220 rooms, 6 meeting rooms with seating capacity of 400 people plus a stage, 3 restaurants and 2 bars.
Where to Dine?
Tipografia – Offers an enchanting patio and direct entrance towards the city center, the indoor dining seats 120 and the patio 60 people. A modern yet chic décor serving a delicious Mediterranean cuisine.
Horta – By the same owners as the notorious Il Basilico (Meca for Italian cuisine), Horta comes with a new concept to the island of healthy comfort food, opening its doors in June 2023. A rustic décor with indoor dining area and discrete terrace, together accommodating around 70 people. (closed on Mondays and Tuesdays)
Kampo – Live a sensory dining experience by tasting the local and seasonal products, carefully crafted, and bringing the best of the region. Located in center of Funchal, a cozy location with the kitchen as a backdrop, perfect for corporate dinner up to 12 people.
Mau Feitio – Trendy restaurant in the island, with a peculiar name “mau feitio” means bad humor but on the contrary to the name you’ll be very welcomed here. And savor the best of the Portuguese and Mediterranean cuisine.
Host Private Events?
Nini Design Center located in the emblematic building known locally as “Molhe”, as the name suggests it’s a laboratory of ideas with permanent exhibition area, shop, cafeteria, and a restaurant with fascinating view of Funchal. The exhibition area can host seated down dinners for 250 people.
Mercado dos Lavradores – The Local market of Funchal can be used for corporate events after working hours. Imagine doing an exclusive event with seated down dinner for 400 people in the most typical location in the island!
Madeira Wine Company – Renowned establishment in Funchal since 1811, it’s the oldest wine cellars in the island with stunning civil baroque architecture. Depending on the chosen location, its possible to host unforgettable dinner from 8 to 250 people.