Elegant hotel perfectly placed to enjoy this stunning island
Perched above the bustling city of Funchal, Casa Velha do Palheiro is a serene sanctuary surrounded by beautiful gardens and a magnificent golf course. This Relais & Châteaux property, originally built in 1804 as a hunting lodge, underwent an extensive restoration in 1997 and is now the perfect spot from which to enjoy the delights of this stunning island.
Excellent blue water fishing and plenty for the non-fisher to enjoy
Madeira is one of the world’s most popular destinations for big game fishing. The summer months between May and October bring with them Atlantic blue marlin and a variety of other billfish. The cooler winter waters, between February through to late April, draw bluefin and bigeye tuna among other pelagic species. The hotel’s private sport fishing boat, Balancal, is moored at Funchal marina and available exclusively to guests of Palheiro. The twin-engine 33ft yacht is suitable for eight and has a half bridge and covered helm position, and a flighting chair positioned at the stern. The boat can be chartered for more leisurely pursuits including whale and dolphin watching, coastal cruises, swimming, and island excursions.
Away from fishing, guests can enjoy one of Europe’s most beautiful golf courses as it meanders through maritime pine and botanical woodland full of lush sub-tropical vegetation. The Palheiro gardens are famous for their incredible variety of plants and beautiful setting in the hills to the east of Funchal. Within the 130-hectare Palheiro Estate are nature trials that can be enjoyed on foot, on horseback or by bike, and after a day of activity, the hotel’s beautiful spa is well worth a visit. There are two restaurants to choose from: the elegant Casa Velha with its classical decor and gourmet cuisine, and the more relace Vista Balancal with a causal menu and golf course views.
Luxurious accommodation in a glorious setting
The guest rooms at Hotel Casa Velha do Pelheiro convey the history and elegance of the estate and combine classic design combined with aspects. Each en-suite room is equipped with all the facilities of a luxury hotel. The three Junior Suites sit in the old house as do seven pretty double rooms. There are three Senior Suites in the Golf Wing along with ten doubles which are slightly larger than those in the old house. The Garden Wing, adjacent to the main building, houses 14 further double rooms.
Beautiful hillside setting close to Funchal
Madeira is just over 600 miles southwest of Lisbon and is a three hour flight from London. The island enjoys a delightfully temperate climate which varies from 25°C in the summer to a pleasant 16°C in winter. Hotel Casa Velha do Palheiro enjoys a beautiful hillside location with stunning views of the ocean and city of Funchal. It is just 15 minutes from Funchal city centre and 20 minutes by car from the international airport.