Estalagem Ponta do Sol

Estalagem Ponta do Sol is dramatically perched at the top of a green cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Originally an old Portuguese wine estate, the building was renovated with the idea to honor the character of the original architecture and design through a contemporary lens. The property reopened as a hotel in 2002 and is the only hotel in the area to feature a pool, whirlpool, and spa (as of summer 2017). For a hotel in a small village that doesn't claim much tourism, the Estalagem is a surprisingly sophisticated and well-done property with thoughtful features and a relaxing, escapist vibe. While there are some families here, the majority of the guests are couples in search of a romantic retreat and folks who enjoy walking vacations. 

This hotel is conveniently located in the center of the island, giving guests access to any edge of the island in 30 minutes or less by car. There's not much happening in the small village, but the Estalagem Ponta do Sol is within walking distance to most of its shops, two taverns, and few restaurants and cafes. There is a dramatic, cliff-lined beach across the street that is covered in stones and staked with a few tiki-style umbrellas that are more for show than practical use. If you plan on exploring the island, you'll want to rent a car. Free parking is offered on-site.

• Eight-minute drive to Ribeira Brava
• 15-minute drive to Calheta
• 25-minute drive to Funchal
• 36-minute drive to Madeira Airport
• 90-minute flight to Lisbon from Madeira Airport

All 54 rooms here are outfitted with fresh, contemporary decor that purposefully borders on a minimalist scale with the intent to enhance the natural beauty of the surroundings. Rooms have huge picture windows, polished hardwood floors, and black-and-white accents in the striped bedding and framed photographs over the beds. Standard amenities include AC, furnished balconies or terraces, mini-fridges, and kettles alongside coffee and tea. Bathrooms are simple but modern, with single-sink vanities, bidets, shower/tub combos, hairdryers, and quality toiletries. The only differences between the rooms are the views, either garden or sea view. Sea-view rooms have breathtaking views over the cliffside and out to sea, making them well worth the upgrade. 

Features at the Estalagem Ponta do Sol do not disappoint. For starters, the Estalagem is the only hotel in the village to have a pool, whirlpool, and spa. The main pool is built into the corner of the cliffside giving guests stunning infinity views out to sea. A few rows of double beds (some with umbrellas) face the sea with more loungers in a separate "sunning" spot to the side. A long path of steps leads down to the ground level where guests can walk across the road to the beach. However, the beach is filled with stones and not suitable for sunbathing. There's also a small heated indoor pool with natural light and a hydromassage feature. 

The hotel's casual but upscale restaurant serves up international European dishes with spectacular views over the village and hillside banana plantations. The free breakfast includes fresh fruits, yogurt, cereals, pastries, and hot items that change daily. The lobby and lounge bar is a popular place to catch the sunset over cocktails, while the Kapo pool bar serves the pool area. 

If you're looking for wellness, all guests have free access to the hotel's sauna, outdoor panoramic whirlpool, a relaxation cabana area, steam room, and the tiny three-machine gym. Massage treatments and a soak in the panoramic hydromassage bath cost extra. Other activities on-site include a library lounge with chess table, pool table, and TV; yoga and Qi Gong classes; and diving demos in the pool. There are also a free bus to walking trails, mountain bike rental, and bird watching available. Wi-Fi is free throughout.