Quinta do Monte Panoramic Gardens

The hotel is located high above Funchal in a wonderfully peaceful location, surrounded by beautiful gardens with stunning views. It does mean a 30-35 minute trip by bus or taxi into the city. We chose to use the local busses of which there is a choice of 3, and are frequent and cheap. The staff were friendly, attentive and very helpful. Our room was spacious with a balcony overlooking the gardens and views of the sea; it was cleaned and beds re-maid daily. The beds were very firm and an extra armchair would have been welcome. We ate in the hotel restaurant on our first night and found it rather expensive. Given the rather isolated location there was limited choice of other cafe's or restaurants so chose to eat in the city most days.

Hotel is beautifully located and has potential but it does not deserve 5 stars being in current condition. It needs updating and more staff. Bar is never staffed and you have to run around looking for a waiter. Swimming pool has mould and jacuzzi does not work despite our remarks. Carpets remember a previous era .If you want to use a safe in your room ,you have to ask for a key which costs 1.5 euros per day (unheard of) .There is no coffee or tea facility in the room which normal is a case in 5star hotels. Hotel is located high on the mountain and surrounded by charming gardens which has sweetened our stay. However it deserves 3 stars at the moment although the owners could easily upgrade it with a bit of will and investment.

Historic quinta beautifully furnished with antigues plus lovely gardens. Indoor pool fine, all staff pleasant and helpful but need more staffing to cover snackbar bar drinks , tea coffee.

Fabio at the reception was great ! Hoyel: not worth the price we paid !