Enotel Lido Madeira

The Enotel Lido Madeira is a huge resort with a relaxed atmosphere and architectural designs that make it look like a docked cruise liner. The 10-floor building curves around the outdoor pool, offering beautiful Atlantic Ocean views from many different angles. The interior design matches the seaside setting, especially in the Ocean Lounge, which has palm trees in an indoor garden and an aquarium. The sixth-floor lobby has large windows to let in natural light, and contemporary green and orange sofas where guests often curl up with books. A large percentage of guests are retirees, but the all-inclusive deals, ENOKIDS club, and seaside location also appeal to families with kids. There’s sometimes friction at the indoor pool between families with playful little ones and guests who want to swim laps. The spa’s saltwater pool has a quieter and romantic vibe with ceiling lights that mimic the night’s sky. If you’re looking for a party scene, this isn’t the right hotel. The low-key entertainment doesn’t typically cater to younger crowds. 

Those looking for an all-inclusive stay won't find many other options in Funchal. The Pestana Bay Ocean Aparthotel has all-inclusive packages and is more affordable, but its rooms are even more basic. 

Unlike the hillside hotels in Funchal, this property is in a walkable area without steep inclines. The resort is on a busy two-lane street in a popular tourist area with a lot of other hotels, restaurants, bars, and markets nearby. There's direct access via a tunnel by the pool to the oceanfront Lido Promenade, which links the Lido area to Formosa Beach -- about a 30-minute walk away (or 10-minute drive for those who don't want to stroll). The Forum Madeira shopping center is within a 15-minute walk. This area, however, doesn’t suit guests who want to be right in Old Town Funchal, as the Marina Funchal, historic sights, and museums are a 15- to 20-minute drive or bus ride (some may choose to make the 30- to 40-minute walk). A bus stop is on the same street as the hotel, which is convenient for guests without cars. The Monte Cable Car is a 20-minute drive, and it’s a 25-minute drive to the Madeira Airport. For guests with cars the hotel has free parking.

Rooms don't live up to the hotel's advertised five-star status, but they are clean and spacious. Blond wood furniture is paired with light blue fabrics and carpeting or wood floors. Photos of Hollywood icons like Marilyn Monroe are a fun touch in some rooms. A big draw for guests are the sea views (full or partial) from the balconies. Keep in mind: balconies don’t have dividing walls, so there’s not much privacy. Standard Rooms and Family Rooms have roughly the same size and layout, but Family Rooms have three beds instead of just two. Note that double beds are two twin beds pushed together, which couples may not appreciate. 

Upgrading to a suite gets you a large terrace with better views, and a separate living and dining area; the Tower Suite has a full kitchen. All rooms have safes, lightly stocked minibars with sodas and water, and flat-screen TVs that offer 30 channels. Suites also have tea-making facilities, which are available in other rooms upon request. Bathrooms are standard with shower/tub combos and in some cases, separate showers; suites have whirlpool tubs.

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a nice selection of drinks are included in all-inclusive rates. The main dining room, the Atlantico Restaurant, has buffet meals. Three theme restaurants also covered under all-inclusive rates; guests staying three nights can make one reservation, guests staying five nights can make two, and guests staying seven nights can make three. There’s Japanese cuisine at the Kai Restaurant, Madeiran food at the O Bailinho, and Italian at the Vela Di Canale, which also has a cafe. There are a bar and a cafe in the lobby. The Sports bar offers darts, a pool table, and numerous flat-screen TVs to catch games. The Moonlight Disco Pub has a stage for live entertainment. 

In addition to its outdoor pool and kiddy pool, the Enotel Lido Madeira has an indoor pool that’s heated. The spa also has a saltwater pool, and guests get free access to the sauna, the steam room, and the hot tub. A hair salon and a mirrored, windowless gym with a spin studio are also available. There are eight conference rooms for guests in town on business and three computer terminals.