Pestana Carlton Madeira

The smart and sprawling building that holds the Pestana Carlton Madeira dates back as far as the 1960s, which comes as a bit of a surprise considering its contemporary feel on arrival. The reception area is a pleasant mix of modern beach-chic and traditionally high-class elements. Expect to see tons of polished marble as well as seating areas done in pleasant cream and tan hues, with casual throws adding a dose of relaxed coziness.  Access to the hotel's grounds is via an external lift in the main building that connects to sea-level and expansive sun terraces. An abundance of colorful flowers, palm trees, and other tropical plant life make for an inviting area to kick back and catch some rays. With multiple restaurants, bars, and pools, there are plenty of places to socialize, though it's all a low-key affair. The atmosphere is upmarket and relaxed, drawing predominantly mature couples from the U.K.

The hotel is situated in a quiet area of Funchal, on a stretch of rocky coastline overlooking the Bay of Funchal. There are a few restaurants within a short stroll, and the striking Casino da Madeira is under a 10-minute walk away. Funchal's city center is about a five- to 10-minute drive away (or a 20-minute downhill stroll) and is full of museums, bars, and eateries, as well as the quaint cobbled streets of Old Town. It's just under a 20-minute walk to Marina Funchal, where cruise ships dock and ferry connections to Porto Santo island are offered. Madeira Airport is about a 20-minute drive.

The hotel has 286 spacious, air-conditioned rooms, most of which are bright, modern, and decorated in understated earth tones and autumnal colors. Each room has at least 31 square meters of space (334 square feet). Contemporary light-wood furnishings and patterned carpets and drapes could use updates in some rooms, but others have bold accent walls with soft all-over floral prints and attractive light-colored accents. All rooms extend to fairly large, wicker-furnished balconies or terraces, most with lovely views over the bay. Amenities include minibars (with soft drinks), flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, and tea/coffee facilities -- though these are only free on arrival and there's a charge to refill. Free Wi-Fi is available, though it doesn't cover all rooms. Double Classic rooms with mountain views are the smallest and most economical option, while the Carlton Junior Suites feature two balconies as well as separate living rooms and bedrooms. 

Marble-clad bathrooms are roomy, with shower/tub combos (or shower stalls only in some Double Classic rooms), wall-mounted hairdryers, and separate toilets with telephones. Toiletries and makeup mirrors are provided. A large building was under construction in front of the hotel at time of writing (mid-2016) so some building noise is inevitable during the day in street-facing (or mountain view) rooms.

Most meals are served in the Os Arcos buffet restaurant, which provides an excellent breakfast service of hot and cold dishes, and even sparkling wine. Breakfast is included in the standard rate and can be taken onto a sea-view terrace. Options are plentiful. There's also the medieval-themed Taverna Grill and alfresco terrace of the Garden Pool Restaurant and Bar. Three bars include a quaint, English-style pub with TVs, and Taverna Bar, which has live evening entertainment. All-inclusive options are available. 

The resort has a nice number of leisure facilities as well. There are an impressive four swimming pools (two indoor and two outdoor). One outdoor pool is enormous and set in the gardens, and the other is perfect for swimming laps. Braver swimmers also have direct access to the sea, though it's not recommended as the coast is rocky and the surf can be treacherous. There's a small and slightly dated spa, while more active leisure facilities take the form of a dive school and tennis courts. The fitness center also looks dated (and it gets almost no natural light), but it has a decent number of weight and cardio machines. Children are also well catered for with a splash pool, playground, and some supervised kids' activities, plus a game room and mini-golf. 

Guest computers are available as well as extensive event space that includes a massive ballroom for up to 500 people. On-site shops sell basic groceries and a selection of Madeiran gifts. Parking is available for a fee. Pets are also permitted, with fees.