Hotel Baía Azul

From check-in through check-out, everything went wonderfully. We enjoyed the half board, with buffets that had something for everyone. There are also good restaurants and a shopping centre within walking distance, and the hotel runs a free shuttle to the marina. The staff were very kind and accommodating. It was our first visit, but it won’t be our last.

I was pleasantly surprised that our street-facing room was fine. The hotel is very clean, modern, and fancy, with lovely decor, beautiful views, and comfortable beds. There are lovely pools, lots of seating and loungers, and nice patios for drinks. Breakfast was good, and the location by the water is great, with restaurants just across the street. My only complaint is the charge to use the safe. I’ve never come across that before and it felt like a rip-off, but we had no choice and paid for it. Apart from that, everything was excellent.

We got back last week from a week’s holiday at the Bia Azul Hotel. Sadly, near the end of the week my wife slipped on a wet floor just inside the hotel, fell hard, and broke her leg. The doctors say she’ll be unable to move around for about seven weeks. It was a very sad end to our holiday. Before the accident, we had nothing but good things to say about the stay. Our room was a decent size and cleaned daily, with a lovely veranda where we could sit early in the evening and watch people go by. The cleaners were friendly and willing to help with anything. Breakfast was superb, with so much choice and different places to sit indoors or out. I’d say it was the best hotel breakfast we’ve had in many years. The breakfast staff were first class too, quickly handling any request with a smile. We used both pools several times, and they were each a pleasant temperature. I preferred the outdoor pool, my wife the indoor one. We usually like swimming in the sea in Madeira, but the weather was poor, the lido areas were closed, and the sea was rough, so we couldn’t. Evening entertainment varied through the week. We enjoyed some acts more than others, but always like the local folk singing and dancing, especially with a Guinness from the bar. The location was okay, though we’d have preferred to be closer to Funchal. We used the free shuttle both ways, walked into town once and back on foot one evening, and found it a lovely walk. The weather put us off walking more, so we mostly used the shuttle and taxis. A Bolt taxi cost just 5 euros each way. A special thanks to the breakfast team boss, whose name I can’t remember. He went above and beyond to help my wife with a wheelchair and her broken leg. The reception staff also deserve a mention for always being there with a smile.

We had a very pleasant October stay at Baia Azul and would gladly come back on our next Madeira trip. The rooms are a good size, and there are useful facilities including an indoor pool, gym, and plenty of terraces for meals or relaxing. The sea views are fantastic, and the location is close to Funchal, with a bus stop right outside and restaurants nearby. Breakfast had lots of choices. For us, it’s a five-star experience.