Madeira revealed itself on my last trip to what’s known as the “pearl of the Atlantic,” not only for the incredible landscapes and places I visited but for the accommodation where I stayed: the Estalagem da Ponta do Sol.
I confess that I knew little about this hotel when I closed my stay there. I knew it was in a strategic location, halfway between Funchal and Ponta do Pargo, a short distance from Ribeira Brava and the road that leads to the north of the island. But what I found most curious is that all the people I spoke to about this accommodation, and who are knowledgeable about Madeira, exclaimed that it was a fabulous place to stay on the island.
I always like to hear opinions, but the conclusions I draw only after visiting the place and experiencing it in full. So, today I can tell you that: Estalagem da Ponta do Sol has joined my top places to stay in Madeira. Without a doubt!
Go up to Estalagem da Ponta do Sol
The first point to highlight this Madeiran accommodation is its location, as I said before, and the fact that it’s on top of a cliff, which gives it one of the best views.
On the north side, the gaze falls sharply on the village that gives the hotel its name and the whole scenery that stretches around, with small houses and banana plantations spotting the hills. To the south, the landscape extends practically to Câmara de Lobos, with Lugar de Baixo peeking out, one of the best-known surf spots on the island.
But don’t think you can park your car outside this inn. The climb, either to the reception or later to access the various interior areas, is done by elevators. Don’t worry if you’re not a fan of lifts or enclosed spaces. The entire hotel can be traversed through pedestrian paths, which are an excellent training to prepare you to do the Madeira Levadas.
Between the green and the blue
Estalagem da Ponta do Sol is a place for all kinds of visitors. As a couple, for those traveling alone, or for those who take the whole family. This is clearly visible at breakfast time when visitors get together, and we can take the pulse of those who are also staying there. This is because the hotel is huge, which allows for some freedom of movement.
Well, at least that’s how I found it during my visit. I believe that at the peak of the high season, it’s different.
One of the best breakfasts on the island!
I take off my hat at breakfast that is served here daily, where some scrambled eggs or an omelet is extrapolated into a colorful dish where there’s no shortage of quinoa, salad, fruit, and nuts. Not to mention natural juices, assorted bread, and fruit salads.
I can’t define the restaurant menu because every day is different, which makes the first meal of the day a very awaited moment.
Another place that brings consensus among guests is the swimming pool, as it should be. And there are two at the Estalagem da Ponta do Sol. An outdoor infinity pool, where you feel like being until the sun goes down. Here the view is divided between the garden and the sea’s blue, with several spaces to stretch the towel.
There’s also an indoor pool, heated and smaller, but incredible to soak your body even on the coldest and rainiest days.
Various options for relaxed days
Next to this last pool is also the inn’s spa. It’s funny because when I travel to Asia, massages are practically part of my daily routine, even to relax from the hours of surfing, but when I travel through Portugal, not really.
I wanted to end this prejudice, and I couldn’t have chosen a better place to do it. With a tired body from the levadas walks, the masseuse’s skilled hands relaxed my muscles in such a way that I was falling asleep twice!
Estalagem da Ponta do Sol offers other spaces to make the best of our stay. We can have a coffee on the spa building’s terrace, with a broad view of the sea; relax after dinner in the reading room, where there’s a snooker table; or have a drink at the bar.
On weekends and during the summer, I learned that the hotel hosts various parties and music shows attracting visitors from all over the island.
Last but not least… the room. After all, we save the best for last. This is because I was housed in a room by the pool, with an unbelievable sea view.
With a small balcony, the accommodation was of simple lines and design, but very comfortable.
What did you think of Estalagem da Ponta do Sol? Would you like to know it? Share your opinion in the comments box below and save the article if you are looking for accommodation for your next trip to Madeira.
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A NOTE FROM MARLENE:
I stayed at the invitation of Estalagem da Ponta do Sol, and I can’t help but thank them for all the sympathy and hospitality I received. But, as always, all the photos and opinions are mine, honestly reflecting the whole experience.
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