We loved staying at theHotel Pestana Vila Lido in Funchal. What makes this place so special is its exceptional location, literally on the edge of the ocean.
In this article, you’ll find details of our stay, along with plenty of photos to help you discover this unique place!
This review is completely independent, we stayed anonymously and paid our bill in full.
Why stay at Hotel Pestana Vila Lido?
This luxury hotel offers a unique setting for your stay. In fact, it’s one of our picks for the best establishments in Madeira. Here are its 3 main assets, in our opinion:
- Magical setting: located by the ocean, you’ll be lulled to sleep by the sound of the waves at night! Outdoor spaces invite contemplation. The views are breathtaking, and the elegant architecture blends seamlessly into the natural landscape.
- Swimming pool: directly facing the ocean, surrounded by comfortable deckchairs, it’s the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring, with a cocktail in hand!
- Peaceful location: tucked away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Funchal, the hotel enjoys a truly tranquil setting. The sound of the waves replaces that of traffic, creating a true bubble of serenity!
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OUR TIPS FOR RENTING YOUR CAR AT Madeira
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Take a car with a good engine for hilly roads, but not too big for manoeuvring.
- There’s plenty of demand and few cars, so book early.
Is the Hotel Pestana Vila Lido worth it? Our review
Totally! We really liked the Hotel Pestana Vila Lido. In fact, it’s one of the best beachfront hotels in Madeira! In addition to its heavenly oceanfront location, it boasts a magnificent swimming pool and direct access to the sea. We have very fond memories of our night in this establishment. With the bay window wide open, we drifted off to sleep, lulled by the movement of the waves.
Decoration and atmosphere
The Hotel Pestana Vila Lido seduced us with its tropical and contemporary decor, with touches of traditional elements. The ubiquitous shades of green recall Madeira’s lush nature and blend perfectly with the outdoor garden and nearby ocean.
The atmosphere is relaxed and conducive to letting go, with nature-inspired decor reflecting the exceptional setting. The hotel complex is organized around several buildings, including one with a singular architecture that literally sits on the water’s edge, offering a totally exotic setting.
OUR FAVORITE ACTIVITY IN Madeira
Catamaran tour to see dolphins and Madeira’s giant cliffs.
The room
Our room exuded a cosy, soothing ambience, with a bohemian decor that subtly blended green and wood tones. Every detail seemed designed to create a warm atmosphere: from the pretty blankets at the end of the bed, to the headboard adorned with organic motifs, to the wicker light fittings. These elements added a real touch of character to the ensemble.
In terms of comfort, a kettle was provided in the room, along with tea bags and instant coffee, perfect for enjoying a moment of relaxation on our balcony overlooking the ocean.
From the balcony, the breathtaking view of the ocean offered a permanent spectacle of changing light and infinite horizon. At night, with the bay window wide open and the sound of the waves lulling us to sleep, we enjoyed a deeply relaxing experience!
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The bathroom
Our bathroom featured a large walk-in shower that opened onto the room, clad in magnificent dark green tiles. The attractive marble-effect countertop added a touch of sophistication to the space. Soft bathrobes and pairs of slippers were waiting for us to make our stay all the more relaxing. Castelbel Porto hygiene products were also available.
VISIT Funchal
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The breakfast
Breakfast takes the form of a large buffet offering a variety of international and local products, such as Bolo de mel de cana and Pastel de nata. We appreciated the wide choice of options, both sweet and savory. With fresh fruit, Viennese pastries, a variety of breads and cold meats, everyone could compose their own plate to suit their tastes.
Meals are served in a beautifully decorated room bathed in natural light and open to the outdoors. We particularly appreciated the opportunity to sit out on the terrace, facing the ocean, to enjoy our breakfast in a peaceful, sunny atmosphere.
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Swimming pool with ocean view
Nestled on the water’s edge, the hotel’s swimming pool offers an exceptional view of the ocean. The water seems to merge with the horizon, creating an absolutely magical impression of infinity. The place invites you to relax: comfortable deckchairs, plants that dance in the wind, and the gentle lapping of the waves in the background. Here, you can bask for hours in the sunlight and the calm of the surroundings. It’s the perfect place to recharge your batteries between two explorations of the island.
Equipment and common areas
The hotel offers you a variety of spaces in which to relax, recharge your batteries or stay active, all in an exceptional setting. The outdoor garden, overlooking the ocean, is a haven of peace where you can stroll or read, lulled by the movement of the waves. Wellness enthusiasts can take advantage of the spa with sauna and Turkish bath, ideal for releasing tension after a day of exploring.
To keep in shape, an indoor gym is available, albeit without windows, as well as some outdoor equipment for training in the fresh air.
In our opinion, the real asset of this establishment? A rare and precious form of private access to the ocean, where you can bathe in peace and quiet in a picture-postcard setting.
The restoration
The establishment offers a refined culinary offering in perfect harmony with the idyllic setting. Restaurant Vila Lido, housed in a historic building, offers a fine selection of dishes and a wine list. Its ocean-view terrace makes every meal even more enjoyable. The hotel’s main bar is also located here. There’s also a pool bar next to the pool.
Practical information about the Hotel Pestana Vila Lido in Madeira
Type
Hotel Pestana Vila Lido is a 5-star establishment ideally located on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean.
See current offers at Hotel Pestana Vila Lido!
Where is the hotel?
The establishment is located in the Lido district, at 15-17 Rua do Gorgulho in São Martinho.
- 25min drive from Madeira Airport,
- 2-minute walk from the Lido beach complex,
- 6-minute walk from Praia do Gorgulho – Gavinas.
How to get there?
To explore the island, we strongly recommend renting a car as soon as you arrive at the airport. The hotel is easily accessible by car. Just take the main road ER101 for about 20min, then take exit 8 to leave the dual carriageway. Continue along Avenida Dom Teodoro de Faria, before joining Avenida Mário Soares and Estrada Monumental. Finally, turn onto Rua Simplício dos Passos Gouveia, and follow it to Rua do Gorgulho, where the hotel is located, 2 steps from the ocean.
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING YOUR CAR AT Madeira
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Take a car with a good engine for hilly roads, but not too big for manoeuvring.
- There’s plenty of demand and few cars, so book early.
Parking
The hotel offers private on-site parking for a fee. Electric vehicle chargers are also available.
For people with reduced mobility
The hotel has rooms adapted for people with reduced mobility. It is equipped with elevators for easy access to the various floors. Bathrooms are also fitted with alarm cords to ensure the safety of disabled people. For detailed information on accessibility and services, we recommend that you contact the hotel directly on (+351) 291 709 200.
Is Hotel Pestana Vila Lido family-friendly?
Yes! The hotel is particularly family-friendly, with rooms for up to 4 people. It features in our selection of the best family resorts in Madeira! Its large swimming pool with a secure, gated area and low water level is ideal for young children. And with direct access to the ocean, even the most adventurous can take a dip in the island’s turquoise waters!
PLAN YOUR STAY IN Madeira
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Things to do in Madeira
Most beautiful viewpoints
Madeira’s most beautiful beaches
Most beautiful gardens
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Practical advice
Getting around Madeira
Rent a car in Madeira
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