Madeira

mark bartlett

A great location right on the seafront. The food was excellent and the staff were friendly and helpful. Good entertainment every evening and the rooms were spacious and very clean. Totally recommended, we will be returning.

Philipp Körbs

This all inclusive hotel is located directly at the beach (which is a stone beach) and offers great views, also has a pool on the property. The rooms we had were okay but in our opinion need some fixing in some regards so it didn’t seem really modern. Generally the hotel would need a proper cleaning and repairs. We booked a double room which was insufficiently cleaned (as shown on the picture). We stayed only one night and had to book very late in the evening. Nevertheless the prices were way too expensive for what was being offered to us. Staff was friendly. Don’t expect anything special.

Radek Rzepecki

The hotel is nice but quite old. The staff is really friendly. The location is ok, a little bit far from town, but there is a free bus to Funchal. You can have a nice walk in the promenade with gourgues views. The food is bad. It's a shame to have an ocean in the front but no fresh fish. It was quite and relaxing, apart from the food it was nice to stay there.

Alexandru Ion

The hotel location and food were amazing 👏. There is plenty of food choice for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The views from the balcony are amazing. The staff was very friendly and helpful . Loved the pool area and Turkish baths. Really enjoyed our stay.

stonne king

Moderately Good Experience. We (a family of four) were very excited getting into the hotel and meeting very friendly receptionists. Most of all, the suit, where we stayed, comprises of two very huge separate rooms connected by a door. In fact, we have never been to any other hotel that has such a very spacious suit yet, and we’ve been to quite a few. It’s simply the biggest room we’ve ever stayed in in a hotel. What’s more, there are two different bathrooms which is very practical for us. One doesn’t have to wait while any of the two toilets is occupied. These rooms are so solidly built that one hardly hears what’s going on in other rooms, offering another contrast to all the hotels we’ve been to. Another surprisingly superb experience is the free drinks at the bar. All the cocktails and hot drinks were totally free of charge for all inclusive guests; and the cocktails are excellent! There are non-Alcoholic for cocktails for children as well, which our children found lovingly tasty. The hotel’s location is right on the beach and all the rooms have ocean view, which we liked very much. We dinned every day while enjoying the marvelous scenery of the ocean, unique volcanic landscape and red sunset. As it is down on a slope, you’ll have to go uphill to get to the supermarkets; the biggest being Forum Madeira, which is in about 12 minutes walking distance. There’s a courtesy bus which can take you to and from town. Nevertheless, the rooms and furniture need refurbishing. Although the cleaning staff do their job thoroughly, one can’t help but notice that the two bad tubs in our suit are very old. The beds and Mattresses have sunk in the middle. Moreover, we were not quite thrilled with the buffet and the food offered. It was just not what we are used to getting from all other hotels where we’ve been to. The buffet was pretty small without much variety. Having gotten used to getting a whole lot of variety of foods in other hotels’ buffets, we literally had to ask the receptionists whether there’s another restaurant in a different part of the building. Unfortunately, there’s no other one, they told us. One thing I enjoy very much on Vacations is eating varieties of fish. But this time, we were only served almost the same every other day. The renowned black fish for instance, which Madeira is known for, was not even served for once. My children love eating pizzas; but none was served throughout our stay. We were told to go to other restaurants to get these types of food like Pizzas and black fish. They have lunch boxes though, for people who are going on sightseeing and as a result are not present for lunch. All in all, I would describe our stay in this hotel as satisfactory.

Parinaz A

es The hotel offers an impressive array of amenities, including multiple restaurants (both indoor and on the terrace), a bar, a welcoming lobby, a sports bar, a sauna, and several swimming pools. 5. Comfortable and Well-Equipped Rooms The room facilities are thoughtfully designed to meet every guest’s needs, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay. This hotel truly exceeds expectations, combining excellent service with a wide range of amenities to create a memorable experience. Highly recommended!

Mark Duijvenvoorde

The Hotel is beautifully located. Around the hotel you will find plenty of stores, restaurants bars. In addition, the center of Funchal is only a 15-minute walk away. The views from the hotel, breakfast room and pools are great. The breakfast is very extensive and the quality of the food good. The pools are lovely and assistance there strict but fair. The "reservation" of beds is not tolerated Not everything is positive. The housekeeping was abominably bad. They dutifully vacuumed the room, but that was all. The layer of dust in the closets immediately soiled our clean clothes. Several times we found a cleaning cloth in our room and once housekeeping took one of the bottles we brought with us. The front desk was not helpful. The staff could be more customer friendly. Especially at breakfast, a number of gruff brutes work who prefer to do nothing. Coffee? Get it there! One morning an employee of the hotel barked at a guest while demonstratively loudly smashing his plates on the table. In summary, the staff did not contribute to a vacation feeling. The hotel was once probably modern; however, those times are far in the past. The furnishings are dated, but more importantly the facilities work poorly. In our case, the faucets of both the bathtub and the sink leaked. All in all, it was a fine stay, no thanks to the staff or facilities. We will not return.

Tom McDonough

Had a great stay here. The staff were all really nice and kind, from the front desk, to the breakfast team, to the housekeeping. Our room was clean and in good condition, with a great pool view. Loved the little balcony for sitting and reading! The air conditioning unit is a little noisy but OK turned down low. We used the spa a few times, and it never seemed too busy. The breakfast was good, especially the pastries, though I felt for the person making omelettes, 2 at a time, for several hours. Perhaps there's a more efficient way to do this. The only negative experience was the car park. It's a tight space, so the hotel might not be able to do much with it, but if you are renting a car, just be aware that it's quite tricky to negotiate, particularly in an unfamiliar vehicle. The spaces are tight, there is very little room to turn around, and the slopes are severe, making the first two difficulties even harder. My only suggestion would be to review the amount of spaces. Generally, people weren't able to park within the spaces at all times, so you have people parked wonky over two spaces. This reduces capacity but the machine that issues the ticket and let's you in doesn't know this. So you get in, only to find there are no spaces after all, then have to get back out, which is even harder if another car followed you in. Thankfully, we avoided any bumps or scrapes and we laugh about how stressful I found the parking! Top car park could have been an option, but the sign says the day rate was 25 euro, which seemed quite steep if you are a guest at the hotel, leaving the car overnight etc. Would love to stay again, but might research an alternate car park beforehand, even if I have to pay a little bit.

steve rix

Quite nice hotel. Advertised as five star, maybe it was when it was built 50 years ago, but would struggle to get four stars now. Food was good, but not enough selections. Gym is very poor. Good location, 10 minutes walk to town. Nice staff.

R. S.

The amenities are okay, with two outdoor pools, one small indoor pool and a jacuzzi. However, the rooms are definitely NOT of five start standard! 1. They do NOT refill your coffee and tea sachets in your room! I mean, even if those express hotels do that don't they? 2. Our 'double' bed is just two single mattress put together and the mattress is so hard. The pillow on the other hand is far too soft and thin to have any support of your neck. 3. The TV in the room is really small. Half of the channels don't work. Anyway, big disappointment. Unless it's really cheap, don't book It!

Qqq Mars

Our stay at this hotel in Funchal, Madeira, was far from satisfying. Upon arrival, we were unable to find parking at the hotel. While there were parking spaces available, we were not allowed to use them as we were told they were “full,” even though the hotel was not fully booked. This caused significant inconvenience. We were then required to pay a city tax at the hotel, which we were not informed about prior to our arrival. This felt unfair and poorly communicated. The pool was in terrible condition, with dirty, murky water full of mud and leaves. It was so unclean that I wouldn’t consider swimming in it again. While the food was okay, the variety left much to be desired. It didn’t live up to expectations for a hotel of this category. The room was also poorly equipped. There were not enough electrical sockets—none near the bed and only one awkwardly placed behind the TV. The bathroom fan didn’t work, which meant the mirror fogged up entirely when using warm water. Additionally, the heater didn’t work at night, leaving the room uncomfortably cold. The most frustrating issue was the bed arrangement. Instead of a proper double bed, we found two single beds pushed together, which felt makeshift and unacceptable for the price we paid. Finally, the photos in the hotel’s advertisements do not match reality. They create an impression of a higher standard than what is actually provided. This was extremely disappointing and felt misleading. Overall, this stay was disappointing, and I cannot recommend this hotel. There are serious improvements needed in both service and facilities.

David Cipík

I was in this hotel between 2.12.-4.12.2024. It is a typical example of a hotel found in travel agency offers. Cheap, old and has a great breakfast. Excellent price/quality ratio. It would need modernization. I would not be surprised if in the past Tutankhamun and his family stayed here in Machico. In any case, I recommend 4*.

Lynda Clough

Good overnight stay for airport. Rooms need some TLC. Very basic. Staff helpful and friendly. Dinner not great, but breakfast very good. Not suitable for people with poor mobility or in a wheelchair. Steps to every level and lifts don’t go to every level. For this reason wouldn’t stay there again

Wacław Wałbrzyski

Those 4 stars are very questionable. Of course, if you refer them to the equipment then it's correct. The quality of that equipment is another question. Paper thin walls, very noisy rooms making you hear every word your neighbour says, he doesn't even have to shout. Hotel is very depressing with those yellow painted dust-covered smell-absorbed walls. Disquisting breakfasts with monotony menu, every day the same stuff not even slightly reconfigured. If you're lucky you can even eat spoiled food. Generally i went to various, cheaper places in my life during the high season, and none was as disappointing as dom pedro. I wouldn't recommend this place to anyone. Sorry.

Adam Łycyniak

Excellent hotel, the best one in the Island. Breakfast was delicious, additional entertainment like pool, darts, billiard, beautiful view plus localisation make this hotel perfect. I will return for 100%.

Garden Girl

Pros: The hotel is located near the largest shopping mall in Funchal, many restaurants, and other amenities. The buffets for breakfast were delicious with a nice variety of fresh fruit, breads, cheeses, and hot foods and coffee. Cons: The reason we chose the hotel is due to the inclusion of a kitchenette in the room, however the kitchenette had no pots or pans to use on the hot plate. We asked for one and were told that no one had ever requested one. We went to buy a frying pan, but then the next day they brought one to us. The room needed a good cleaning (e.g. your feet got dirty walking barefoot). The two twin beds pushed together to make a king bed were of different heights. The shower curtain rod was rusting. The shampoo and soap were in small packets the size of packets of sugar or sauce - two packets per person were provided for the entire stay. The person at the front desk didn't get up when we appeared at the front desk to ask about how to lock the safe and referred to us as renters, suggesting that we shouldn't be expecting services. She informed us that a lock was not automatically provided for the safe in the room, but had to be rented for 2 euros per day. As at December 2023, there was audible construction and plumbing noise, but it didn't keep us awake (only day time). Note: We were located on the third floor on the front, street side of the hotel - the view was of the buildings across the street. We did not make use of the pool or air conditioning/heating so haven't commented on those.

Magdalena Jozwicka

Depends what you are looking for. We needed an accomodation close to the cost and town centre and this worked for us. We left the room every morning and went back just before dinner and it was perfect for us. There was some noise coming from the building being refurbished/rebuilt next to our hotel. If we stayed in the hotel during the day that would have bothered us but it was not our plan. All the staff were very helpful, food was ok (kids don't eat anything regardless how many star hotel we have been in) and rooms vere clean and spacious enough for four of us. A bit dated decor and you could probably pick up on the variety of food provided but we as a family travel to explore new places and it was really nice for our stay.

Mihajlo Vukobratovic

This is a fantastic place considering the value for the price.I went through the reviews and many negative reviews that make no sense. Rooms are spacious, with a balcony and kitchenette, bed comfy, toilet all good. The breakfast buffet is offering and covering all the options that you can have, all fresh and great. Parking on the street is easy and in front of the hotel. The pool, sauna and jacuzzi are the best thing after hiking and walking day. Overall a great experience. Recommend

Tereza Kožíková

I didnt wanna be a crybaby but this hotel Is not for 4 star. Roaches in restrooms, clothes moths in the room, bugs in the forgotten glass near the reception desk. Always opened luggage room so everyone can take your bag and no one will notice... Well... To stay positive: Staff is willing and kind and we had a view on the ocean.

Serg Paulo

Just four stars of my mind . Room Service three stars. The bedding hasn't been changed during my holiday. Not good . Winter 🥶

Bob Bowen

Once perfect now just a bit worn. Staff EXCELLENT. Restaurant very good with a variety of choices on the buffet, imaginative menus. A variety of well stocked bars, but a number of cocktails on a special list, only available for a extra substantial payment. We stuck to the inclusive cocktails. The hotel is well situated near a bus route to the centre of Funchal, and walks along the promenade. Lots of facilities in the hotel. We received an invitation to accompany a rep of the Pestana Group to visit their recently renovated flagship hotel in the centre of Funchal. We were assured it was not timeshare. It was, by another name so be aware! That said they gave us two free tickets to any of the local amenities and trips. We went with our eyes open and expected timeshare. No we didn't buy, we are not fans of timeshare.

Jonathan Cornell

Right on the beach, balcony option although shared with neighbour despite glazed screen. Food was varied and provision was made for gluten/wheat free as well as diary intolerance. Shellfish allergy needs a little work, considering its an island though not too bad.

Zoe X

Absolutely lovely place. Such caring dedicated staff who cannot do enough and are always smiling. Stunning setting, delicious food lots of choices for all tastes. Beautiful sunsets and a nice relaxing Jacuzzi and sauna. Lots of entertainment and such magnificent music from the pianist, guitarist and saxophonist during mealtimes. Highly recommend this fantastic place.

Eleni Fameli

I am utterly shocked and appalled by our experience at this hotel. My partner and I stayed here recently, and unfortunately, the stay was marred by a serious incident during breakfast. Due to a clear lapse in quality control, my partner’s front tooth was broken while eating the breakfast provided. Specifically, there was a hard, inedible object hidden within the meal. What’s even more frustrating is the hotel's complete lack of proper response. Instead of offering a genuine apology and a compensation, the staff were dismissive, unhelpful, and seemed more interested in brushing off the incident rather than taking responsibility. There was no follow-up or any consideration given to the injury caused, and the situation was handled with complete indifference. We expected far better service rather with such lack of professionalism in addressing the matter. I would strongly advise against staying here unless you want to risk the chance of being treated with complete disregard should anything go wrong. !! UPDATE TO YOUR ANSWER !!: To clarify, we never requested a direct cash payment of 700 euros. Instead, you initially offered us a bottle of wine, and in comparison, we explained that this does not constitute an equitable compensation as dental repair we are seeking can cost up to 700 euros. Ιt is highly inappropriate to convey such serious inaccuracies. We expect a more honest and respectful approach moving forward.

Bartosz

Dear Team, Dear Guest Service Manager, Thank you very much for a wonderful stay. Great food, service, cleaning service. A huge thank you to the reception manager who always tried to help us and for Guest Service Manager. The service in bars and restaurants is simply excellent! The hotel is beautifully located. A big plus is the elevator to the beach. I would also like to thank the reception staff who helped organize the cake and always tried to help! I will recommend your hotel. It was a wonderful experience!

Graham Payne

Fourth time at this fab hotel. Fabulous food and drinks. Spotlessly clean and staff are extremely cheerful and helpful. Went to the Italian themed restaurant this time. The food was superb and authentic (and we've eaten in Venice, Florence and Sorrento). Just out of the rear gate is the promenade with many nearby bars and restaurants if you fancy a change. So good we've booked again for April/May '25. Well done!

Annika Millere

Overall, our experience was positive. The staff was kind, and we enjoyed the variety of food, especially the special dinners. However, there are some areas that could be improved. The indoor pool area was very noisy with many children, making it less relaxing. It would be better if the hotel had someone supervising guests to ensure they follow the rules—such as not jumping in the pool or walking into food areas in just swimsuits. This would help maintain a more respectful and comfortable environment for all guests. Additionally, the first-floor area became very slippery due to guests walking around dripping wet, which is a safety concern; we even saw a few people slip. Lastly, we overheard a manager speaking harshly to employees in front of guests, which seemed unprofessional

stephen redgrave

The Hotel itself is quite large but kept very clean and tidy, The rooms are nicely kept and a good size. Staff are polite and courteous, the evening entertainment is very good, not much entertainment during the day. The food is good but not a 5* , if you eat later in the evening some of the dishes are not available, it should be available if you eat early or late , plus the 3 speciality restaurants are only available on certain days so if not staying for a week you will miss out on one or two of them. All in all a nice place to stay but there is some room to be Top Notch.

Darrick Idso

I’d rate our experience a 3.5 out of 5. There were aspects that were great and others that unfortunately missed the mark. The staff were very friendly and accommodating. The dinners at the 3 restaurants on site offered a nice pre-set dining experience and we were pleasantly surprised all three nights. The buffet was fair. The drinks from the bar were pretty good and you have access to a self-service tap for beer and soda. That said, I too was a bit confused, as I’ve noted on multiple other reviews, with regard to the 5-star rating; I happen to agree with these reviews. I see the last renovation was in 2012 and wear and tear is definitely starting to become apparent. The nighttime entertainment was a little tacky and seemed targeted for older guests compared to targeting a wide range of guests. We were quite disappointed in the fitness center. Weights are weights, but for a 5-star experience I had expected much higher quality. Some of the machines were quite dated or broken; there were no cleaning wipes; men’s toilet was not working; it just felt very unkempt. Overall, our stay was mostly satisfactory. Would I stay here again? I’m not sure; if you’re looking for a more luxury/romantic 5-star experience, I would probably look elsewhere.

mark forster

This hotel is really welcoming and clean. They have food for all tastes in multiple restaurants, and the food is good quality and all fresh also constantly being replenished. The multiple bars have a large selection of drinks, and it's all good quality brands, not the usual all-inclusive cheap stuff. The hotel has 2 swimming pools and plenty of sunbeds and umbrellas. Also, a really nice spa with a large selection of paid treatments. The spa also has a salt water pool, hot tubs,sauna, and steam rooms all free to use for guests over the age of 16 years old. The rooms are nice and clean and well equipped they also all have balcony's with sea views. All the staff in all the departments are really helpful and can't seem to do enough to help you. Amazing hotel with amazing staff.

Michael Skurka

The hotel is very old. The furniture as well as the whole style of the hotel does not meet 4stars criteria. Yet the personnel is fine and friendly and the restaurant serves good meals both for buffet breakfast and for dinner buffet as well. The spa with jacuzzi and sauna is nice. This hotel is rather a low-cost solution for those who prefer making trips.

Noah Noah

I recently stayed at Monte Mar Palace Hotel in Madeira and had a pleasant experience. The hotel is situated in a quiet and peaceful location, making it an ideal spot for relaxation. The rooms were clean and comfortable, offering beautiful views of the surrounding area. The facilities were adequate, and the staff were friendly and helpful throughout my stay. While it may not have been a luxurious experience, it was a good, calm place to unwind. Overall, I would recommend Monte Mar Palace Hotel for those looking for a simple and serene getaway in Madeira. Four stars!

Igor Doubrava

The rooms and furnishings at Monte Mar Palace are indeed dated, but for fans of retro style, this adds a certain charm. It’s clear that, back in its prime, significant investment went into high-quality materials and design, as much of the original equipment still works well. The spaciousness of the rooms and their excellent soundproofing are definite advantages, providing a comfortable and quiet retreat. However, the half-board dining experience falls short, particularly on an island famed for its fresh produce and exceptional flavors. Instant coffee, powdered juice, and lackluster eggs feel outdated and disappointing. Additionally, the presence of cockroaches in the hotel detracts from the overall experience. It's a shame, as the dedicated and welcoming staff do an excellent job, but they're unfortunately limited by management's choice of inferior ingredients.

Kacper S.

Very big disappointment. So maybe pros first, will be faster: 1) Quiet surrounding, but there’s no hotel’s contribution in this 2) One kind blonde lady at the reception that was helpful and tried her best Now the true „fun” begins. Travel was with Itaka and reservation made by Itaka: 1) Was supposed to be a room with sea view. Real view: wall, tube, bushes and just some corner piece of sea (photo) 2) Very old rooms looking like they needed a renovation 10 years ago 3) Dust in ventilation system (photo) 4) Bug visitors (photo) 5) Low quality and tasteless food. At least near hotel there’s a very lovely bar/tavern. 6) Despite having dinners purchased hotel doesn’t serve anything to drink with dinner. Not even a damn glass of water, forcing guests to order them separately. As far as Madeira is a beautiful island and would love to visit it again, but definitely not in this hotel.

Christina Anghelus

The customer service was outstanding, most friendly and helpful receptionist and staff. Very clean and stylish hotel, great location and beautiful room view. Aesthetically pleasing and very well maintained, the best 7 days spent in Madeira. Definitely we will be back