Pestana Grand Ocean Resort Hotel

The views from the room were priceless, the customer service was top notch, and the use of Judita's laundry service was both efficient and s cost savings.

This place is a total gem! Seriously, the location alone is worth it, but what really makes the place stand out is the staff. They're not just amazing; they go above and beyond to help out, making you feel super welcome and taken care of from the moment you check in. If you're looking for a chill spot with top-notch service, this is your place. The ocean views are just the cherry on top!

When we eventually arrived as were diverted via Tenerife due to strong winds, the welcome at 9.00 pm was very good. The lady receptionist who did the cinderalla shift told us to go straight to dinner and all sorted afterwards. A lovely room, 1312, a bottle of sparkling wine on our 50 wedding anniversary and the lady cleaners decorated our room too, one of which was born in 1974. Hotel is in a beautiful position, lovely gardens and views. 7 mins walk from the Forum shopping centre which is great for coffees, shopping etc. just outside is the Opan coffee shop, excellent, good friendly people and great food and coffee. Caught the bus 02 into Funchal, stops just outside the hotel, takes about 20 mins, cost each just under €2 single fare. Prices dearer in Funchal as expect to see a couple of cruise ships whilst in there. Look for the gate from the hotel gardens on to the promenade walk and go either way, towards the lido you’d have a steep hill to go up so we preferred walked towards the beach with the black sand the other way. Great supermarket with bakery for snacks if needed and wine within the forum. Met some brilliant people, such a clean island and you felt safe too. Book early and you’ll into the alternative restaurants too, we tried both the Italian and the Moroccan and both good. Didn’t like the coffee in the hotel, very strong. Entertainment is good, especially the lady on the Thursday night, 28/3, sorry didn’t get her name. Bar staff very attentive too. All in all even though we had some not so good weather, gusting winds, the gardens are beautiful and we had a very enjoyable stay.