Belmond Reid’s Palace

Item: Belmond Reid’s Palace
Rating: 49
Author: Meryl Fontek

Where:
Madeira, Portugal
Why:Itching for a luxurious getaway.
When:April 2018
Who:Party of one.

A balcony lets in the softest morning light.

The view from my room is a pool lover’s dream.

Belmond Reid’s Palace Bolo do Caco, a Madeiran staple is a fluffy bread served with mouth-watering garlic butter. Addicting and always available during meals.

Bolo do Caco, a Madeiran staple is a fluffy bread served with mouth-watering garlic butter. Addicting and always available during meals.

Belmond Reid’s Palace The knowledgeable and charming GM, Ciriaco Campus, led me through the verdant gardens which boast over 500 species of flora and fauna.

The knowledgeable and charming GM, Ciriaco Campus, led me through the verdant gardens which boast over 500 species of flora and fauna.

Stumbled upon an orchid workshop given by a Madeiran orchid aficionado, Pedro Spinola....which I then promptly joined.

Talking love and life with a new friend as I sit perched, my back to the Atlantic Ocean. Nothing quite like it.

Belmond Reid’s Palace To celebrate Madeira Island’s annual flower festival, guests were invited to create flower carpets to be displayed poolside.

To celebrate Madeira Island’s annual flower festival, guests were invited to create flower carpets to be displayed poolside.

Belmond Reid’s Palace Afternoon Tea is a historic tradition at Belmond Reid’s Palace. Every afternoon guests stroll to the pale pink terrace for the lightest finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones and a choice from a menu of fine teas.

Afternoon Tea is a historic tradition at Belmond Reid’s Palace. Every afternoon guests stroll to the pale pink terrace for the lightest finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones and a choice from a menu of fine teas.

Belmond Reid’s Palace The majestic view of the hotel as I left by boat for an afternoon of dolphin watching. An excursion offered by the hotel’s concierge!

The majestic view of the hotel as I left by boat for an afternoon of dolphin watching. An excursion offered by the hotel’s concierge!

Highs & Lows

The chef at the Michelin-starred William Restaurant went above and beyond to accommodate my dietary restrictions.
The saltwater pool just a few feet above the Atlantic Ocean, offers complete and utter dip into rejuvenation.
Exclusive excursions are offered to guests; dolphin watching, a visit to an organic farm and Madeiran wine tasting.

The Barometer

Design
Website
Plastic Free
Night's Sleep
Service

Amenities
Takeable Treats
Refer a Friend
Overall Value
Life Changing

Total: 49/50

Important Bits

Type
A 125-year old palatial property.
Vibe
Romantic old-world charm, impeccable hospitality with a touch of contemporary flair.
Location
Perched atop a cliff and overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the hotel sits amidst lush sub-tropical gardens. Just a 20 minute drive from the airport in Funchal.
Rooms
158 rooms and suites.
Music
None
Year Opened
The historic property opened its doors in 1891 and was managed by William Reid’s two sons.
Designed By
William Reid, a Scottish farmer with a vision.

Health & Wellness
Three pools (two are heated and the third is a natural seawater tidal pool), an incredible spa and a sleek gym.
Restaurant
Michelin-starred William Restaurant and the pared-back Italian Villa Cipriani (adjacent to the hotel).
Bar
Glitzy cocktail bar.
Minibar
Yes. Fresh orange, apple and tomato juice is stocked daily. Madeiran desserts at your bedside nightly.
Children
Bring them! There is great programming for kids!
Price
A worthwhile investment.
Website
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