There are hotels that stay with you and then there’s Savoy Palace. An elegant and unmistakable landmark rising above Funchal’s harbourfront, this five-star hotel offers an unforgettable island escape. Opt for the hotel’s private transfer from the airport – it’s the perfect way to begin your getaway. Sip on chilled champagne and indulge in handmade chocolate truffles as you soak in the views on the way to the hotel…holiday mode activated.
Whether you’re a solo traveller keen to explore mountain trails and world-class golf courses, a couple balancing sightseeing with spa time and rooftop cocktails, or a family looking to unwind in the sun, Savoy Palace is perfectly suited to every kind of guest – thoughtfully designed to make everyone feel at ease.
Built in 2019, the hotel is both striking and soothing – designed to reflect the gentle movement of the ocean with sweeping curves and architectural lines that bring the outside in. The interiors are a tribute to Madeira’s cultural heritage and lush natural beauty. Local embroidery, for example, appears in sculptural metal bannisters and soft furnishings, while wicker and florals – is reimagined in dramatic lighting features. There’s an immediate sense of space and serenity as you step inside, where floor-to-ceiling glass windows allow light to flood the grand lobby and reflect off the polished stone floors. Palm trees outside ripple into view in the water of the main pool, creating a picture-perfect sense of calm.
The hotel’s location is another highlight. A short stroll takes you to many of Funchal’s most-loved sights – ride the cable cars for breathtaking views, explore the cobbled streets of the Old Town, wander the waterfront, or visit the Cristiano Ronaldo CR7 Museum – all without needing transport. But truth be told, many guests find themselves drawn back to the hotel before the day is done. It’s a place you want to linger.
There are 309 rooms across 16 floors, and each one offers a cool, calm retreat with floor-to-ceiling windows, real greenery on the balconies, and curated design details that continue the theme of modern Madeira elegance. Expect soft lighting, warm wood, bespoke embroidery patterns flanking each side of the bed, and bathrooms stocked with Guerlain toiletries. There’s a pillow menu for those picky about their perfect sleep setup – but trust us, the hotel has already selected the cream of the crop. Turndown service includes a Toblerone waiting on your pillow for that perfect bedtime treat.
Children are equally well looked after. Kids receive an adorable toiletry bag, a game book with a pencil for scribbles or puzzles, and a welcome treasure chest of sweets. Adults are greeted with a glass of Madeira wine and a platter of fresh fruit on arrival, setting a relaxed tone from the very beginning.
The outdoor glass lifts are worth noting – if you’re lucky enough to ride one, the view is quite something as you glide up to your floor. If not, the outlook when you get there more than makes up for it. All floors feature real plants, creating the feel of an indoor garden at every level. This harmony with nature is no accident – every design detail has been thoughtfully inspired by the island’s landscape.
Dining is an adventure of its own at Savoy Palace. With six restaurants to choose from, no two evenings are the same. A must-visit is Pau de Lume, a modern twist on Portuguese cuisine where table sharing is encouraged. The flavour of meats and fish cooked over fire takes centre stage, with in-house ageing of meats and cheeses adding depth. Don’t miss the all-day brunch menu here, either.
Terreiro is another standout – a traditional restaurant flying the flag high for local farmers, with generous terrace seating. The chorizo grilled at your table was a starter highlight, as were the local red snapper and the Terreiro steak with beer sauce. Galáxia Skyfood, perched on the 16th floor, offers fine dining with panoramic views across the city and out to the ocean. From sea-fresh seafood to local specialities with a creative twist, each dish is beautifully presented.
Breakfast is one of the best – expect a generous buffet with an array of pastries, Madeiran sweet treats, local honey, a live cooking station, island speciality dishes, fresh fruit, smoked salmon, local hams and cheeses, barista-made coffees, and freshly squeezed juices. There’s even a dedicated children’s station.
Throughout the hotel, you’ll find a range of stylish bars and lounges where you can sip a pre-dinner cocktail or sample Madeira’s signature drink, Poncha. Weekly cocktail-making classes are a fun way to learn a few tricks from the in-house mixologists, whether it’s mastering an ultra-smooth espresso martini or shaking up the Savoy’s take on a dark and stormy. For those who want to explore further, there’s also a rum and cigar masterclass, wine tastings, and seasonal culinary experiences.
The five swimming pools – yes, five – offer options for every mood, from quiet morning dips to lazy afternoons in a private cabana. The adults-only infinity pool on the 16th floor is a particular highlight, with sweeping Atlantic views. For days when the weather dips or when you need a break from the sun, there’s also a large heated indoor pool in the spa, which is a destination in itself.
Inspired by the island’s Laurissilva Forest, the Laurea Spa is the largest in Portugal and manages to feel both expansive and inviting. From the moment you step in, the scent of essential oils and soft lighting calms the senses. Your shoulders relax with the first inhalation. It’s the kind of place where you instantly think – this is what every spa should be like.
Facilities include a hydrotherapy pool, steam room, Turkish bath, sensory showers, halo-therapy salt room, and even a Champagne nail bar. The relaxation area features comfy loungers, soft blankets, bespoke Laurea tea, and delicious homemade cookies – so good, you’ll want to take a box home, which you absolutely can.
The spa menu is extensive and thoughtful, featuring classic beauty treatments, ancient therapies, and Savoy-exclusive rituals such as the hiker’s and golfer’s special. We highly recommend the 90-minute Laurea massage. Designed to reset the body and mind, it uses a bespoke oil inspired by the Laurissilva forest and works with hot and cold stones in harmony, treating one side of the body at a time and finishing with the delicate sound of chimes.
Even outside the spa, wellness is clearly at the heart of the hotel’s philosophy. The 24-hour gym is beautifully maintained and fitted with Technogym equipment. Weekly classes are available, from yoga to Pilates. There’s a well-curated kids club too – so there’s always time for a little me-time. The kids club itself is a standout. Interiors are so charming they may inspire you to redecorate at home, and the activities range from movies and face painting to crafts, cookie baking, and pizza masterclasses.
Every aspect of Savoy Palace feels carefully considered – from the warm welcome to the thoughtful touches that create lasting memories. It’s not just about looking good (although it does, in every light), but about how it makes you feel. Relaxed, inspired, cared for – like a home from home.
Savoy Palace, Av. do Infante 25, São Martinho, 9004-542 Funchal, Portugal
