Belmond Reids Palace

The iconic Belmond Reid's Palace has been providing a home away from home on the island of Madeira for over 120 years. This 5-star palace features 2 heated swimming pools, one with fresh water, one with salt water; a state-of-the-art fitness centre and 2 tennis courts, and an oceanfront spa with rooms and private terraces.

Rooms vary in shape, size and luxury. Ranging from the classical room all the way to the presidential suites - named after Churchill and Shaw who once stayed in these rooms - the rooms are the epitome of understated luxury. In true Madeiran fashion, the decor is gentle and peaceful. Expect subtle colours and comfortable, luxurious amenities. All rooms offer a balcony or terrace with furniture, marble bathrooms, a sea or garden view, air-con, complimentary WiFi, and an in-room safe. Choose refreshments from the mini-bar and listen to your own tunes with the iPod compatible speakers.

To be expected from any 5-star hotel of this calibre, wining and dining is an utter pleasure. The staff at the Reid's Palace are the glue that holds the smoothly running hotel up to its high standards. Expect dignified service along with a beautiful setting for each meal. First, at the heart of the hotel, is The Dining Room. An elegant restaurant which summarises everything about the Reid's Palace features huge pillars and glittering chandeliers. Open Sundays and Mondays, you're expected to dress to impress, with a jacket required for the gentlemen. At the William Restaurant the Reid's Palace verges on the modern with spectacular glass windows and panoramic views, this restaurant serves international cuisine prepared with mostly local ingredients. There's also an Italian restaurant and a Pool restaurant where you can enjoy light drinks and snacks by the pool if you'd prefer this to a sit-down meal.

Facilities at the Belmond Reid's Palace include two heated swimming pools, one of which is fresh water, and one of which is salt water. This is great as you get to choose which sort of swimming pool you'd like to enjoy, not always a benefit even at 5-star hotels. There's also a tidal pool, direct sea access, and a children's pool. Children are also well catered for throughout the hotel, with a kid's club and child-minding services available.