Pestana Vila Lido Madeira

The location of this hotel is fantastic - directly on the ocean. I believe each room has a view of the water. The staff could not be nicer, offering tips for restaurants and answering questions. The water was rough while we were there, but we are good swimmers, so we were able to swim and snorkel 4 out of 5 days while there. The pool is crystal clear and beautiful and located right on the ocean as well. The rooms are not fancy, but are clean, comfortable and have all that you need, including a small refrigerator with complimentary water and juice upon your arrival. It is lovely to watch the sunrise and moonrise from the balcony. Breakfast was good and offered a nice variety of foods. It was nice to sit outside, once again with a view of the ocean. They had happy hour and live music on some evenings and there were stores and restaurants nearby, which was great if you were jet-lagged. We walked into Funchal several times from the hotel.

We visited the Vila Lido having been shown around in April. The location is spectacular with views across the bay. The staff are so friendly and helpful, the accommodation comfortable and the food delicious. We will certainly be returning.

Pestana Vila Lido is a super hotel if you are looking to chill out and have instant access to the ocean. Bedrooms are a good size with a really good en suite, especially the shower ! You don’t need to bring shampoo and body wash as it is already provided. I would suggest you bring with you mosquito spray or a plug in as we both got bitten quite a fair amount. Breakfast is well worth paying for as the choice is massive and delicious- the buffet is open until 11 so we tended to have a later breakfast and therefore didn’t need any lunch. The breakfasts cater for all allergens and dietary preferences such as vegan, lactose free etc. just be wary when buying the buffet dinner that this does not include wine and we had an unexpectedly high bill for three glasses of wine coming in at €28! The pool staff are very attentive and will come and grab a parasol and set it up when they see you arrive on your sunbed. The pool is quite a good size however perhaps not big enough to do hardcore lengths in- however,the ocean is very close which you can dive right into ! There is a sauna and steam room however these are quite small and don’t seem to be open every day. There is also an outdoor gym which can be used however again, it is rather small and as it is outside, it does tend to be rather in a sunspot making it harder to use.

Absolutely fantastic hotel with clean modern rooms with amazing views. We love the location and management is incredibly responsive, particularly Cristina, who has gone above and beyond to make our stay special. This is an ideal hotel for families.

Love this hotel ! The sea view is amazing , room was spacious and spotlessly clean. Nice balcony and plenty of storage space. Safe and kettle in the room. Staff were super helpful , special mention to Lizbeth. What a delight she is , made us feel very welcome, an asset to the Vila Lido team !! It was very quiet at night apart from the gentle lapping of the waves so a good nights sleep was guaranteed! Loved the sauna and steam room , took advantage of a treatment which was excellent. Breakfast selection was superb , you couldn’t have asked for more. Pool area was pleasant. Not quite the weather for a pool dip but it was spotless and well maintained. Perfectly positioned for a stroll into Funchal but with other lovely restaurants nearby if you didn’t fancy the walk. Would recommend !

We love this place but a few bits of advice for the hotel. Christmas decorations: you must up your game! Put lights on the trees at least, it looks so dull in the evening. Entertainment: there is none or did we miss it? We did several happy hours but no entertainment. Restaurant: breakfast is great but evening meal is moderate only. No atmosphere in restaurant. Needs aimed lighting and candles on tables. Puddings seem to be mostly blamange type and bland. Otherwise our apartment was great, staff are lovely and pool area great.