Monte Mar Palace Hotel

The Monte Mar Palace Hotel is a simple mid-range property in Ponta Delgada, offering unbeatable views of the Atlantic Ocean and plentiful family-friendly facilities. It’s away-from-it-all atmosphere is best for those seeking tranquility, and attracts a mix of families, couples, and older guests. One of the hotel’s big selling points is its fantastic setting on clifftop gardens overlooking the ocean. The modern building is surrounded by mountains and set in sprawling green gardens lined with palm trees. The glass-front entrance leads into a bright lobby with polished floors, green plants, and a wood-topped front desk with plenty of comfortable seating areas. Most facilities are family-friendly and geared toward relaxation, with many guests gathering around the outdoor pool and bar in the daytime. Nightly entertainment brings a more lively atmosphere, but the vibe is generally laid-back. Overall, the property is starting to look a little worn and tired, and many previous guests have remarked that the quality here seems to be on the decline. 

The hotel is located in a small village on the north coast of the island, offering total tranquility and a gorgeous clifftop garden setting with stunning ocean views. However, there's no direct access to a beach from the hotel. There's not that much to do in the village and the surrounding area is mostly residential, with a few small restaurants and houses next to the hotel. An ATM, gas station, pharmacy, and cafe are within walking distance, but guests will need to go to Sao Vicente to find shops, restaurants, bars, and local attractions. That town is 10 minutes away by car, or the free shuttle service that runs twice daily. Those renting a car should visit the Sao Vicente Caves, Laurisilva Forest (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and the natural pools of Porto Moniz. The historic capital of Funchal and Madeira Airport are both around a 60-minute drive from the hotel.

The hotel has a total of 111 rooms and and suites. All are bright and simply decorated, with carpeted floors, white walls, huge light wooden headboards, and simple wooden furniture. Unfortunately, some elements -- like the floral drapes and patterned bedspreads -- feel a little outdated. All rooms have spacious furnished balconies with wonderful views of the ocean or mountains, while Suites add separate living areas and sofabeds. Standard in-room amenities include flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, empty mini-fridges, phones, and safes, but there’s no Wi-Fi or electric kettles. Bathrooms are basic and tired, but clean, with shower/tub combos, tube hairdryers, pump toiletries, and bidets. 

Like any proper all-inclusive resort in the Spanish and Portuguese islands, features here are numerous. The free-form outdoor pool has panoramic ocean views and sun loungers for tanning, plus a separate children's pool. There's also an indoor pool and full-service spa, offering massages, body treatments, and hot tubs, plus a steam room and sauna. Guests can workout for free at the fitness center, which has a variety of cardio machines, resistance equipment, and free weights. There's also a squash court and game room with ping-pong, darts, and a billiards table. Putting greens and a children's playground can be found in the gardens.

The buffet-style restaurant serves a variety of international cuisines in a relaxed setting and has an outdoor terrace for alfresco dining. A free breakfast buffet is served daily, with plenty of hot and cold options as well as hot tea, coffee, and hot chocolate. Guests can grab a drink at one of several bars, including a seasonal poolside bar. Room service is available around the clock. All-inclusive rates are available, and include meals and snacks, plus drinks, though food offerings can be repetitive. Hours for all-inclusive plans are also limited and aren't available around the clock. The hotel arranges a daily schedule for activities and nightly entertainment, which often includes traditional dancing and music.

The hotel has a business center and several spacious meeting rooms for corporate guests, as well as an exclusive members-only VIP Lounge with refreshments and fantastic views. Other services include a concierge, luggage storage, airport transfers for a fee, tour assistance, and laundry. Parking is free and Wi-Fi is only free in public areas. There's also a free twice-daily shuttle service to Sao Vicente for guests.