We loved this hotel! Staying in one of the deluxe rooms with a private balcony the loudest thing we could hear was the birdsong in the mornings. Service was exemplary, as befits a 5 star hotel, with a varied and plentiful breakfast. The old-world charm of the establishment was very relaxing and the room was comfortably understated. The staff were unfailingly friendly and helpful. There is a free shuttle bus several times a day between the hotel and Funchal, last return at 1815.
No-where is perfect; the excellent pool opens at 9am and closes at 7pm, preventing an early morning or evening swim. The shuttle bus only runs Monday-Friday so at the weekend it's a choice of a 10 euro taxi or the local service bus, the no. 8 or any other marked 'Centro' for 1 .8 euros. I do not recommend trying to walk to town along the busy roads. The grounds are walled, but the surrounding area is residential and some parts did not look too welcoming.
For us, the gardens were the star of the show; well maintained and like a botanic collection with their mix of worldwide and native species. The walk through the garden to breakfast was one of the pleasures of this hotel.
If we ever returned to Madeira we would certainly stay here again.
