Homestays in Madeira, Portugal

We stayed at this hotel twice and have booked it again. It’s a budget-friendly place in the very centre of Funchal. It has everything we need really - the rooms are spacious, there’s always hot water in the shower, the rooms are cleaned every day. Faultless, fast WiFi (crucial if you are working remotely or travelling with a teen). Massive kudos to the amazing staff - they are very friendly and courteous. The location is perfect for sightseeing in Funchal or getting to other places in Madeira.

The Quinta da Saraiva is a beautiful small boutique hotel in a great position overlooking Câmara de Lobos. I would have liked to stay longer but unfortunately it was just an overnight stop. My room was quite small but lovely, with the most comfortable bed I’ve slept in for a long time. The staff are very friendly and helpful. There’s a bar in the reception area which operates on an honesty basis when it’s unmanned. The pool and jacuzzi, overlooking the town below, are great. The hotel’s gardens are nice to explore - they grow lots of stuff, and you’re encouraged to help yourself to bananas! Breakfast was a cold platter of various meats, cheeses, salad, fruit, bread and pastries, with tea/coffee and juices. Eggs are also offered. Personally, I’d have preferred some muesli and yoghurt and more hot options, but it was very nice and well presented. A couple of things: - the hotel discourages you from drinking the water and offers expensive bottled water instead (although it was given to me free of charge when I asked for water at breakfast). So you may wish to take your own. - if you’re driving, the track to the hotel off a busy roundabout is crazy. Be prepared...I almost extended my stay just to avoid the drive out! - The hotel is a little far for walking to the nearest restaurants and to the town, and it’s hilly. I’m fine with that but it won’t suit everyone. There’s an excellent place called Polar which is very popular with locals. It’s about 20 minutes, but be prepared for a bit of a climb.

EVERYTHING WAS OK, ESPECIALLY THE LOCATION. The only objection is the breakfast, which is the same every morning and monotonous Best regards Dr Milan Lončar