Savoy Palace

The hotel is located in the hotel zone, which is about a 15-minute mostly uphill walk from the old town. Views of the ocean from our room were lovely, and if you stood far enough back you saw only ocean and not the low-rise buildings between the Savoy Palace and the waterfront. With the door to the balcony closed, the room was very quiet. We were surprised to learn that the hotel opened as new construction in 2021 because our first impression, which was of a super-sized seating area as we entered the hotel from the elevators from the parking garage, suggested authentic mid-century. The pieces of furniture scattered throughout were in perfect condition, but the huge room was stark and awkward. We later learned the hotel was built on the site of the original Savoy Palace, so perhaps the design was intended to recall a past era. Our room was clean, but the bed was rock hard and the air conditioning could not be controlled from the thermostat. We requested a mattress topper, and one was quickly brought, but it was more like a mattress protector than a topper, so it didn't help. As far as the thermostat was concerned, the front desk staff explained that the air conditioning was controlled centrally in room blocks, and did we prefer a warm room or a cold room? Um… We prefer a luxury hotel to allow guests to control the temperature of their rooms themselves. The bathroom had double sinks but they were very close together and the handle for each faucet was mounted on the counter near the edge of the countertop (that was a new one for us!) and consequently there was barely any space to put even a few toiletries. The shower was large with a small but sufficient rain head on the ceiling and a hand-held shower head on a fixed mount on the wall, so the height and angle were not adjustable, which was disappointing. A complete absence of towel bars to hang damp towels was also disappointing. Two hooks inside the shower were not useful – spray from the shower hit whatever was hanging on a hook. A highlight was the opulent breakfast buffet. Another plus was that front desk staff were consistently pleasant and tried to be helpful.

The entire property is lovely, well maintained and full of employees who seem genuinely friendly and helpful. Ms Laura Silva checked us in efficiently and provided us with alot of information to help make our stay easier and more comfortable. Concierge David arranged contact with a medical provider to help with a request we made for a doctor. We also had a bit of an issue at the hotel which was promptly addressed by the team and management and reparations made. The assistant manager João Pedro took the time and attention to help us with priority and attention and we were grateful for the help and resolution. In a hotel servicing hundreds of people, things can go wrong and if you work with the hotel to explain the issue and allow them to help you resolve it and/or make reparations, then you will ensure your stay will be pleasurable. We had such lovely time there. There is enough space in the rooms to move around, beautiful views of the sea and city, and probably one of the best things - plenty of seating throughout the hotel! (how often do you have to wait for kids, parents, friends, taxis when on holiday!!) The lobby lounge overlooking the pool was also a pleasure to enjoy an hour of reading in the afternoon as well - with lovely wine and snacks to enjoy. I love all the corners you can find to relax and unwind yourself be it by the pool or lounge or right in front of your room (trying to escape the kids!). Housekeeping support and doorman staff were both just excellent. Spa facilities were lovely as well although the spa is a bit dark taking a bit of time to adjust but peaceful once you do. Location was also perfect, we were an easy walk to the city centre as well as Forum Madeira - the teenagers were easily able to do the walk themselves. No car rental was required. Uber was also readily available although the hotel can also efficiently arrange taxis which are reasonably priced.

Recently back from another lovely visit. Despite the weather not being great we still had a great time. Small areas are showing signs of wear and tear but overall it is still a wonderful hotel. Staff are very friendly and helpful. Especially the pool team with a special mention to Emanuel who was so helpful sorting out beds and towels. I must admit I was shocked one evening to see one of the receptionists chewing gum at the desk. We cannot wait to return in November.

Amazing hotel. Very easy to check in and amazing facilities. One tip for the people looking to go is to look around the hotel for at least half a day because there are a lot of things hidden away like the indoor pool! The gym is great and the staff were very helpful!

A fantastic hotel - excellent service, brilliant facilities, great location and large comfortable rooms. Excellent for families with indoor heated pool, kids playroom/activities and restaurants all have high chairs/children’s meals. The pools are brilliant, as is the spa. We would love to visit again.