Quinta-ssentially Madeira
Andrew Farr
Quinta: a Madeiran take on boutique hotels
In addition to a fine selection of exceptional luxury hotels Madeira also features a number of delightfully restored manor houses and country villas known in Portuguese as quintas. These gracious and elegant boutique properties give guests all the comforts of a sophisticated hotel combined with impeccable service and a more traditional aesthetic. Quinta accommodation in Madeira is often set amidst splendid gardens. Often brimming with antiques and objets d’art, a quinta rarely fails to delight with its own character, charm, individuality and personal service. Quintas are a fantastic way to combine exploring new surroundings whilst embracing Portuguese tradition; they put you at the heart of a Madeiran home.Casa Velha do Palheiro
Why choose a quinta?
Quintas offer more of a personal touch than hotels. Service is specifically tailored to each guest; you’re a name not a passport number. The rustic, traditional charm of a quinta is a big draw. Culture and character can be lost in some hotels but a quinta guarantees a stay filled with charm. Less built up than larger hotels, quintas provide a more peaceful retreat, particularly for lovers of nature – botanical gardens and ornamental lakes may be a feature of the quinta’s estate. More usually sited away from town centres, quintas typically provide a soothing atmosphere in which to relax on holiday.
Quinta da Casa Branca
A quinta for all occasions
For those looking to unwind, many quintas offer spa, health and well-being facilities and most also feature an outdoor pool. Gastronomists will enjoy the quintas home cooked good which can be enjoyed alongside a fabulous glass of Madeira wine. With a wonderful selection of quintas located around Madeira, you’ll find a property and location to suit you. Our recommendations are as follows.
For golfers
Conveniently located for golf and botanical enthusiast, Casa Velha do Palheiro is a peaceful Relais & Châteaux country retreat nestled between the famous Palheiro Gardens and the magnificent 18 hole championship Palheiro Golf Course. Formerly a 19th century hunting lodge, Casa Velha do Palheiro has been transformed into an elegant country hotel for guests seeking a comfortable and peaceful retreat in beautiful and natural surroundings. Guests receive complimentary access to Palheiro Gardens as well as a discount on green fees at Palheiro Golf Course.
For something different
A member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Quinta da Casa Branca stands away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre in a quiet residential area. A glass turret houses the lounge, reception and terrace bar and offers unique views overlooking the hotel’s extensive mature gardens within which the rooms are very cleverly concealed.
For gourmets
Located in an elevated position with spectacular views over Funchal, Quinta da Bela Vista, formerly a traditional style manor house, has been restored to the very highest of luxury standards complemented by the finest antiques and has an excellent reputation for its first-class cuisine.
For gardeners
Quinta Jardins do Lago is a luxury property with the character of an original 18th century manor house. Overlooking Funchal, the property is situated within six acres of botanical gardens and most of the rooms overlook the exquisite gardens. Quinta do Monte Hotel & Panoramic Gardens can be found in the historical leafy village of Monte high above Funchal. Spacious rooms boast views over the surrounding gardens and close by is Parque Municipal do Monte and Monte Palace Tropical Gardens. Casa Velha do Palheiro offers complimentary daily access to the magnificent Palheiro Gardens with its abundance of camellias, giant ferns, roses and a sunken garden.
Quinta Jardins do Lago