Luxury hotel stay in Madeira
If you are looking for a luxury hotel option in Madeira look no further than the majestic Savoy Palace Hotel. This impressive hotel, which opened in 2018, is one of seven Savoy Signature hotels sited on the volcanic island jewel of Madeira. The Savoy Palace epitomises the best that Madeira has to offer. This elegant upscale accommodation, owned by a local family has a surprise around every corner. Perched on the top of the hill it enjoys breathtaking views out over the capital Funchal and the majestic Atlantic Ocean. The shape of the building mimics an organic great wave effect. Plants are everywhere and 90,000 of them embellish both the outside and interior of this 352 room hotel. This creates a delightful garden atmosphere, reflecting the lush interior of this sub-tropical Portuguese island.
The decor of the Savoy is effortlessly elegant and reflects elements of Madeiran culture. Traditional embroidery patterns accent the wall panels of rooms and even the little bridge that crosses the stunning outdoor swimming pool. Doors and floors are light cork, another renowned product of Portugal. The lounge furniture reflects the French Belle Époque era and there are beautiful flowers and palms everywhere. There is even a ‘Savoy scent’ – a signature perfume that echoes the delicate smell of Camellias.
An exceptional five-star haven, the Savoy Palace even includes a hotel within a hotel! Even more exclusive guests stay at the Reserve, travelling from the airport in a white Rolls Royce. This part of the Savoy features huge apartment suites with their own outdoor space and pool. Renaldo – Madeira’s most famous son – stays here for the New Year fireworks or when he comes to see his mum on her birthday.
Dining at the Savoy Palace
Options for dining here are many. From the airy palm-filled Pau De Lume with its black and white tiling, to the charming Terreiro which serves typical Madeiran dishes. accompanied by fresh vegetables from the Chef’s garden. This eaterie channels the ambience of an old Madeiran estate with ceramics and furniture from the original old Savoy Classic hotel. Alameda is the bright poolside open-air dining venue with a lighter more Mediterranean feel.
The piece de resistance has to be the Galaxia Skyfood bar and restaurant high on the 16th floor. Starlights stud the dramatic indigo ceiling and there is an upbeat off-earth space station vibe. The seven-course tasting menu is a truly theatrical culinary experience and not to be missed. Madeiran specialities arrive on quirky plates paired with delicious Portuguese wines. Eating here is a real occasion.
The Laurea Spa at the Savoy Palace Hotel
The Laurea spa at the Savoy Palace Hotel is a luxurious sanctuary. Inspiration is drawn from Madeira’s rare Laurisilva forest. This extensive spa has a mystical forest feel. facilities include a heated indoor pool and Jacuzzi along with a suite of steam, sauna and salt rooms. There is also a relaxation area for those who really want to chill.
There are eleven treatment spaces here and a wide range of luxury treatments on offer. I can confirm that therapists are skilled and experienced!
Madeira island’s Vibrant Culture
There is a lot to do at the Savoy Palace and you might never feel the need to leave this luxurious haven, but Madeira Island has a lot to offer the visitor.
A stay here positions you perfectly to experience some of Madeira’s most cherished cultural and natural attractions:
Madeira Island Travel Guide
Here is a whistle stop your of some of the best things to look out for while you are visiting Madeira.
Madeira Carnival:
Held annually in February or March, this exuberant festival showcases the island’s love for music, dance, and elaborate costumes. The streets of Funchal come alive with parades, floats and festivities, reflecting the warmth and joy of the Madeiran people. This is really a vibrant time for the island and the energy of the event is electric. The entire population of Madeira is only 250,000 and the carnival involves just about all of them! They even make their own carnival costumes. This is a spectacular celebratory event. Goodbye Rio – Hello Funchal!
West Island Jeep Tour with Adventureland
For the adventurous, a jeep tour to the island’s western region is a must do. This offers an intimate look at Madeira’s rugged landscapes, traditional villages, and stunning coastal views. These tours include visits to natural pools at Porto Moniz where people can enter the Atlantic safely to swim (Madeira has no real beaches.) The UNESCO-listed Laurisilva forests provide a comprehensive understanding of the island’s natural beauty. The Laurisilva of Madeira is an outstanding relict of a previously widespread laurel forest type. It is the largest surviving area of laurel forest and is believed to be 90% primary forest. It contains unique plants and animals, including the Madeiran long toed pigeon.
We took the Adventureland land rover tour with our guide, Wilson, who was very knowledgeable about the island. We climbed the super steep roads through different types of habitats and past spectacular waterfalls and rock formations.
Madeiran Hospitality
Madeirans are renowned for their friendliness and hospitality. The colourful central market with its huge choice of fruits, vegetables and fish is definitely worth a visit.. Dine in family-run restaurants, like Theos, or enjoy the stunning view from the Nini Andrede Silva restaurant atop the Design Centre at the end of the Pier.
Take a ride on the cable car up to the botanical garden or just stroll through Funchal’s charming streets. Madeira is also pretty good value for money compared to other European countries and there’s no denying the range of quite delicious Portuguese wine available here, much of which never gets exported.
Luxury Holidays in Madeira – best place to stay
The 5 star Savoy Palace Hotel is a gateway to the rich experiences that Madeira offers. Surely the best hotel in Funchal, it offers everything from luxurious accommodations and gourmet dining to cultural festivities and natural wonders. Your stay promises to be a tempting blend of relaxation, adventure, and authentic island hospitality.
The Savoy Palace Hotel is one of the Signature Hotels group in Madeira. For more information about What’s On in Madeira – contact the Madeira Islands Tourist Board
