Our recent week-long stay at the Enotel Hotel in Funchal, Madeira, was a delightful retreat that left us with fond memories and a deep appreciation for this beautiful island. Nestled in a prime location, the Enotel Hotel offers a perfect blend of convenience, comfort, and stunning scenery, making it an ideal place to unwind and explore.

Location and Atmosphere

Perched along the oceanfront, the Enotel Hotel boasts picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean. It's situated just a short walk from Funchal's bustling city center, where vibrant shops, quaint cafes, and local markets add to the area's charm. The hotel's serene environment, complete with lush gardens and exotic flowers, creates a tranquil oasis amidst the lively city vibes.

The hotel’s atmosphere struck the perfect balance between luxury and comfort. From the elegant design of the lobby to the friendly smiles of the staff, everything exuded a welcoming and relaxed aura, setting the tone for an enjoyable stay.

The Room

We stayed in room 246, which proved to be a cozy and inviting retreat throughout our stay. The room was spacious and simply decorated with a modern touch, maintaining a sense of comfort that made it feel like home. Large windows allowed an abundance of natural light to fill the space, creating a bright and airy atmosphere.

The view from our balcony was particularly striking. To the left, we could see the majestic mountains, their peaks often kissed by misty clouds. Directly ahead, Funchal spread out before us, a tapestry of vibrant rooftops and bustling city life. While the ocean was only partially visible in the distance, the small glimpse of the sea added a touch of serenity to the stunning panorama.

The room was equipped with all the essentials needed for a comfortable stay, the plush bed, although firm ensured restful nights. Amenities included a mini-fridge (empty), flat-screen TV, and a well-stocked en-suite bathroom provided added convenience. After days filled with adventure, returning to the comfort of our room was always a welcome end to the day.

Breakfast

The hotel's breakfast spread was nothing short of impressive. Each morning in the bright and cheerful dining room, we were greeted by a wide variety of culinary delights. Traditional Madeiran pastries paired perfectly with fresh fruits, yogurts, and international breakfast classics.

There was a good selection for the traditional English cooked breakfast and the omelet station, where you can order a cooked to order omelet was particularly noteworthy, offering a personalised touch with ingredients of your choice.

Amenities and Services

Enotel truly excels in the amenities and services it provides. The outdoor pool was a favorite spot, surrounded by comfortable loungers and lush greenery, where we spent several afternoons basking in the sun. The on-site spa offered a sanctuary of relaxation, with treatments crafted to rejuvenate body and mind.

The fitness center was well-equipped with modern machines and weights, which ensured those inclined towards maintaining their fitness regimen wouldn’t miss a beat. Additionally, the hotel staff were all exceptional. Always cheerful and ready to assist, they made dinner reservations for us, provided travel suggestions, and arranged taxis that arrived within minutes.

Exploring Madeira

Our exploration of Madeira was greatly enhanced by Enotel's strategic location. The hotel's proximity to the city centre meant we could easily embark on excursions to various parts of the island.

Making good use of the Yellow tour bus company and their five day travel ticket, we made good use of our time. The all in ticket also included discounts for the Monte Cable Car and a separate bus transfer route to the Câmara de Lobos, Cabo Girão the glass floored viewing platform. Entrance to the platform is not included, but is only two euros per person entry.

The rich culinary scene in Funchal, with its seafood specialties, was a gastronomic delight we enjoyed during our evening outings. Eating out was reasonably priced with the average main course meal costing less than twenty euros, a bottle of house wine costing around eighteen euros.

Our week at the Enotel Hotel in Funchal was a truly enriching experience. The excellent service, top-notch amenities, and inviting accommodations made it the perfect base for exploring the island’s wonders.

For anyone seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation in a sublime setting, I wholeheartedly recommend Enotel Hotel. Madeira’s charm, combined with the warmth and comfort of this lavish hotel, creates a combination that few can rival.