Reid's Palace, A Belmond Hotel, Madeira

Reid’s Palace has overlooked the Atlantic outside central Funchal since 1891, occupying a rocky promontory wrapped in mature subtropical gardens. The property feels inseparable from Madeira’s history as a winter escape for European travelers.

Its 126 rooms and suites retain a graceful, traditional character, with many looking over gardens or directly toward the ocean. Specialty accommodations recall famous former guests, including Winston Churchill, while the best terraces use the sea as their primary decoration.

Leisure is built around the cliffside setting. Two heated pools, a tidal pool, direct sea access, tennis and extensive gardens allow guests to spend much of the day outside without ever leaving the estate.

William Restaurant brings Michelin-starred cooking to the hotel, joined by the open-air Italian restaurant Villa Cipriani, afternoon tea on the terrace and more relaxed poolside venues. The combination of food and views makes dining a major part of the stay.

Reid’s Palace is strongest for travelers who appreciate continuity and atmosphere. It offers the rituals of a historic European grand hotel, but the gardens, pools and Atlantic access keep the experience unmistakably Madeiran rather than formal for its own sake.