Casa Velha do Palheiro, Relais & Chateaux

Casa Velha do Palheiro feels like a retreat in a less-travelled part of Madeira, and it wouldn’t be fair to compare it with hotels in Funchal. The premises are set apart by their quality and careful upkeep, and the place has a distinct character in an island with so many hotels. Its history and the gardens brought back memories of visiting National Trust properties back home. The Blandy family, known for the excellent Madeira wine sold under their brand name, bought the Casa Velha do Palheiro in 1885 and developed and maintained the gardens for more than 100 years. What wonderful gardens. I wouldn’t have expected the camellias we know so well in Britain to grow so nicely in Madeira, but they do. This is much more than a pleasant boutique hotel. The restaurant deserves a recommendation too. The cook is clearly very experienced and skilled, and we had a wonderful, unforgettable meal combining local and French cuisine. The serving staff were careful and attentive without imposing. We could enjoy our privacy while still receiving outstanding service. We aren’t golfers, but the property also has a large golf course. There’s a very pleasant Tea Room at the edge of the gardens, next to the golf course area, where we also enjoyed good service. A paradise of a hotel and gardens, away from the crowds of hotel offers elsewhere. We warmly recommend Casa Velha do Palheiro for a stay. It’s also a good starting point for excursions around the island and into downtown Funchal, which is well worth taking time to explore on foot.

The room was okay, but the spa and pools were too small and felt a bit neglected. Breakfast was limited and bland, and there seemed to be staff shortages while I was there. The main restaurant was expensive, with food and presentation that didn’t really meet the mark. The informal food was very poor for vegetarians. They kindly agreed to go off-menu, but the result was the bare minimum. The hotel is at the top of a long road with hairpin bends, so drive carefully. For me, this was a decent three-star experience, and I wouldn’t return.

The pools, both indoor and outdoor, and the dry and wet saunas were nice and clean during our spa day pass visit. The massage stood out most, one of the most professional and genuinely relaxing treatments I’ve had. We had an amazing experience. Thanks so much. Highly recommended!

We visited the property for weddings and events, and it’s the best of its kind in Madeira. We also had lunch at Oxalis restaurant, where the food presentation was impressive and the meal was mouth-watering, with a high level of service. The hotelier, Tatiana, is super professional, welcoming, and knowledgeable. If you’re having a wedding or social event here, you can feel sure you’re in the best hands in Madeira! BR, Lana Olifer Lana Wedding Planner & WEMA Global