Reid's Palace, A Belmond Hotel, Madeira

When you book afternoon tea at Reid’s Palace your expectation is to take tea in early 20th Century elegance on the check-tiled terrace overlooking the sea and a stunning view whilst sitting in Lloyd loom or similar chairs. The place makes the occasion. It also makes the €50 per person price tag for a somewhat overrated tea meal worth it. When booking, because we had never been to Reid’s before (because we had never been to Madeira before), we had no idea that the moving of the tea venue (due to non-apparent refurbishment) to another part of the hotel complex would mean an utter downgrading of the experience. Tea is, for the time being, served in a clean but indifferent Italian restaurant building with ice cream shop below some 70m from the main hotel. As far as the aesthetic, when you are sitting three rows back from the window, it doesn’t come close to what you had been expecting. We had such high expectations fuelled by the experiences of friends who had been before. To put it into context, it’s a bit like booking tea at the Ritz and find yourself taking a Ritz tea in a smartish sandwich shop next door. So beware and be careful what you hope for. As for the tea itself: tea (the drink) excellent; sandwiches of variable quality and definitely for indentulate; whipped not clotted cream with the scones; scones good; strawberry compote good but not great; cakes/pastries OK but extremely sticky. Was it worth €50 per person - absolutely not. Would it have been worth it had it been in the main hotel sitting on that glorious terrace - absolutely yes. Because it would have been afternoon tea and an unforgettable memory, not a forgettable, overpriced afternoon tea.

We decided to spend the last few days of our holiday at a luxurious resort, and the Belmond Reid’s Palace exceeded every expectation. From the moment we arrived, we were captivated by the breathtaking views from our room, overlooking the serene expanse of the sea and the stunning botanical gardens that surround the property. It felt like stepping into paradise. What truly made our stay unforgettable was the meticulous attention to detail—every aspect of the resort was flawlessly maintained, and the staff delivered impeccable service. The spa was an absolute highlight, providing a serene and rejuvenating experience. A special shoutout to the cocktail bar, which is absolutely amazing. If you visit, be sure to try their signature cocktail named after Churchill—it’s an unforgettable treat and adds a touch of history to the experience. A heartfelt thank you to the General Manager, Patricia, whose warm hospitality and dedication ensured our stay was nothing short of perfection. She went above and beyond to make everything extraordinary. Belmond Reid’s Palace is a haven of luxury, elegance, and tranquility. The combination of the lush botanical gardens, peaceful ocean views, and world-class amenities makes this place truly magical. We will treasure these memories and cannot wait to return. Highly recommended for anyone seeking an exceptional escape!

Had afternoon tea here and it was great. We really enjoyed the food, finger sandwiches, cakes and scones abound! We chose Reid's own blend tea and it was perfect. Sat on the veranda watching over Funchal, sun shining (a cool breeze was blowing but blanket shawls provided to keep cosy). Reid's staff were all polite and professional, but also charming, friendly and approachable. Overall we had a fantastic afternoon at Reid's, and yes it's a bit of an extravagance and you do pay for it but you have to make the most from life and enjoy it, and so we did!

Had a lovely stay - the service for the most part was great. A few hiccups here and there but overall my family and I enjoyed our vacation. Joanna at guest services was an absolute delight and made my family and I very happy with our stay. Breakfast was amazing. The heated pools, steam, sauna and other facilities were great! Will consider coming back again.

Here’s the revised review: A Five-Star Oasis of Comfort and Elegance at Reid’s Palace During a period marked by uncertainty and financial instability, I had the privilege of staying at Reid’s Palace in Madeira, and it was nothing short of extraordinary. As a jet-setter, I’ve visited many five-star hotels, but few have matched the unique blend of luxury and protection I found here. From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed with warmth and attentiveness, treated like royalty in every interaction. The staff, attentive to the smallest detail, ensured that my needs were anticipated and met before I even voiced them. I felt protected, almost like a king within the sanctuary of the palace walls, which was a priceless feeling during such a turbulent time. The ambiance of the palace exudes elegance and sophistication, with an atmosphere that’s both historic and refreshingly modern. Every space, from the opulent suites to the inviting lounge areas, reflects meticulous attention to detail. The culinary experiences were another highlight—impeccable flavors that speak to the best of Madeira’s local cuisine, artfully prepared to perfection. Reid’s Palace is more than just a place to stay; it’s a refuge for the soul, offering not only physical luxury but a sense of tranquility and security that’s simply priceless. This is a destination for anyone seeking an outstanding, five-star experience with unmatched hospitality and an environment that allows you to feel truly protected and at peace. Thank you, Reid’s Palace, for making my stay unforgettable. I look forward to returning. Dr. Gabriel Martinez-Diaz

Reid's Palace provided a delightful experience during our New Year's Eve stay. The atmosphere was festive, and the hotel's elegant decor added a touch of charm to our celebrations. The service was exceptional, with attentive staff who ensured our every need was met. The family-friendly amenities and activities were perfect for all ages, making it a memorable holiday for everyone. Overall, it was a pleasant stay, and I highly recommend Reid's Palace for a special occasion!

There is not a single negative thing I can say about Reid’s. From the way the doorman welcomed us by name on our first arrival, to the stunning hotel, gardens and pool area, to the sound of waves breaking against the cliffs all night, to the always friendly, helpful and respectful staff, to the magnificent breakfasts, to the perfectly equipped rooms and wonderful maid service, to the lovely spa, gym and sauna. All was perfect. A week was nowhere near enough.

Certainly! Here’s a review based on your experience at Reid’s Palace: A Secure and Historic Retreat at Reid’s Palace My recent stay at Reid’s Palace was a refreshing experience, providing a sense of security and comfort during a difficult time dealing with financial and business-related challenges. The hotel’s blend of historical elegance and modern amenities made it the perfect sanctuary, and I felt completely at ease within its beautifully preserved walls. Reid’s Palace is steeped in history, and the building itself has a story to tell. I found myself drawn to its rich background, and learning about its origins and role in local heritage added a fascinating layer to my stay. The hotel is more than just a place to sleep—it’s an experience in itself, a blend of architecture and ambiance that transports you to another era. I’d highly recommend setting aside a full day or two to fully explore Reid’s Palace without leaving the premises. There’s so much to enjoy here, from the stunning views and unique rooms to quiet reading nooks and impeccably designed interiors that capture the charm of a bygone era. It’s a truly unique destination, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in a setting that combines elegance, history, and a sense of personal peace.