Belmond Reid's Palace

Reid’s Palace has a way of making you feel part of its long story the moment you step onto the terrace. We arrived without a reservation yet were placed at a wonderful table overlooking the gardens and the Atlantic. The service was effortless and kind - the sort of hospitality that feels lived rather than staged. Exploring the interiors later, with their quiet grandeur, and seeing the Sisi statue on the neighboring property, we were reminded how many travelers before us sought the same calm. Watching the hotel from the sea at dusk, the whole complex seemed to float between past and present.

Administration is badly organised. There needs to be liaison between reservations, spa and guest services. Staff very courteous and pleasant. Expected a better level from Belmond.

We rather feared this might be an example of faded grandeur - a hotel past its best. We need not have worried. Reid's Palace is still outstanding in terms of ambience, guest service, food and the detailed care and attention all members of the hotel team provide. From the moment we arrived every member of staff was friendly and welcoming and remained so throughout our stay. The room was fine with regular servicing, the breakfasts were excellent and the staff on duty for breakfast were outstanding. Dinner at the Villa Cipriani was a real pleasure and the guest relations staff were well informed and helpful. The hotel has real charm and distinction and is not just another high quality but anonymous establishment in which you could be anywhere. The gardens are a treat to walk round and it's not far to walk into Funchal (if it is there are more taxi ranks in Funchal than I have seen in any other town). There are quite a few hotels in Funchal which offer high quality service but none can match Reid's history and the distinction which comes from many years of excellence.

Strong winds and airplane cancellations resulted in us having a 5 day holiday but a 7 day in addition. delay

Once again, a fabulous experience, largely down to the outstanding staff that give such a warm welcome. I made an unplanned visit from the cruise I was on, as I have previously done so and had such a lovely time, decided to repeat it. From entering and being shown to the poolside restaurant, I was looked after incredibly well which was comforting as a solo traveller. The pool and the views are outstanding, a wonderful setting to enjoy lunch. I ordered the Salmon sandwich, which came with both smoked and cooked salmon on a bed of lettuce and horseradish sauce. The chips that accompanied it were the best I’ve ever tasted. My piña colada, was both pretty and tasty (and strong!) As it was low season, I did not feel rushed, and in fact if I had not felt a little heady from the drink, would’ve stayed for another. Thank you, Reid’s for making my visit so memorable. I hope to revisit and stay sometime.