Hostel Casal São João

I had been travelling for 22 hours and just needed somewhere to sleep, but ended up booking another place at the last minute after finding bed bugs on the wall beside the bed. With the lights on, they were out where I could see them. The kitchen was in ruins, smelled of mold and cat urine, and had paint peeling from the walls. Getting inside was a mess too. My flight was delayed, so I contacted the property ahead of time and was assured someone would check me in. When I arrived late, I sat in the back garden for two hours with nobody answering the door. The phone went unanswered, then straight to voicemail on my second call. I was finally let in at 2:15. Booking.com returned my money almost immediately the next morning after I left. They also refunded people who'd stayed a couple of nights without knowing why red marks were appearing on their bodies, and who thought it was allergies. Avoid this place. The pictures say plenty.

My first hostel stay was about a year and a half ago, so I'm very late writing this 🤪. I wasn't sure what to expect, but Heldér and his family welcomed me so warmly and made me feel at home. I loved staying there. Thanks so much to Heldér, his family, and Lukas 🐕

The location is a great base for motorcycle trips, and you get good value for Madeira. The building is in decent shape and the staff are nice. The furniture is old, though, and getting to the beach means a 45-minute walk because the hostel sits on top of a mountain. That elevated spot does give it an amazing view.

I spent three weeks here, and the people and the home-like feel made any downsides of the property worth it. Carla and helder have such kind hearts, and they love meeting new people and learning about them. I'll always remember the experience and have so much love for the family who live there. Don't come expecting a five-star resort with marble halls and butlers. Come for a comfortable home, welcoming people and staff who make it feel like you're part of a family.