“We try to avoid ever saying ‘No’,” said the affable General Manager, as we strolled through the immaculate gardens of this tranquil, elegant hotel. Certainly a bold claim, but it proved to be an understatement by the time we left. With impeccably trained staff who remember your name and greet you with indefatigable warmth, even a short stint here left us feeling like a pampered VIP. Many other guests were on their 10th visit or more, and we quickly saw why. In a world of gimmicks and flashy tricks, Quinta da Casa Branca has managed to curate a delectable environment of casual refinement and old-world glamour.
The 49 rooms and 2 restaurants are spread between the original Manor House and a modern glass-walled Quinta. Acres of surrounding botanical gardens and banana plantations mean you can always find a quiet corner. Unwind with sumptuous treatments in the spa, eat exquisite food (scabbard fish with Champagne mousse, scallops over asparagus puree), read books by the heated outdoor pool. This is the kind of elusive retreat where you can vanish entirely from the clamour of daily life - yet should you want it, the fun of Funchal is just a 15-minute walk away, beyond the high, ivy-clad walls.
Highs
- An excellent fine-dining restaurant, plus a casual garden bistro and bar
- Two heated pools (one adults-only) and a lovely spa for relaxation-to-the-core
- The 5 Manor Suites in the original Manor House, with beautiful antique furniture, 18th-century paintings and modern luxuries
- The staff are polite and professional; the place runs seamlessly
- Close to the centre of Funchal, within walking distance of the sea and Old Town - yet it feels like a hidden retreat
Lows
- Pricey but worth the splurge
- On the larger side (49 rooms), but there's masses of space
- Won't suit those who want a buzzy scene; it's popular with couples seeking peace
Best time to go
Madeira’s gentle sub-tropical climate makes it a lovely destination for sun, year-round. Funchal is at its vibrant best from mid-December until the New Year, when the city and hillsides are aglow with technicolour fairy lights for the festive season.
Our top tips
Visit the charming fishing village of Camâra de Lobos and sit in the sun at one of the seafront cafes to sample the local ponchas (a small but potent cocktail of sugar-cane spirit and fruit juice). Take a taxi rather than drive; it's likely to go to your head!
Location
Quinta da Casa Branca is in the leafy Lido area of western Funchal, surrounded by shops and restaurants. It is a quick walk to the sea and 15 minutes’ walk to the Old Town.
By Air:
Funchal (23km) is the closest airport, a 30-minute taxi ride from the hotel.
By Car:
If you’re in Madeira for any length of time you'd be advised to hire a car as public transport is limited. Parking is tricky in central Funchal, but the hotel has a free car park for guests.
Detailed directions will be sent to you when you book through i-escape.com.
More on getting to Madeira and getting around
Airports:
- Funchal 23.0 km FUN
Other:
- Beach 1.0 km
- Shops 0.5 km
- Restaurant 0.5 km
Our guests' ratings...
Based on 7 independent reviews from i-escape guests
Feedback is only from guests who have booked and stayed through i-escape