What it is

A storied 1891 icon perched high above the Atlantic, with manicured gardens, a sumptuous spa and 158 exquisite rooms.

What it isn't

Hungry. The hotel maintains four restaurants, a cocktail bar and even an afternoon tea terrace (yes, that’s a thing).

What we think

James Bond wannabees flock to Belmond Reid’s Palace because it lives up to its name in every single way. Accommodations at the royal-worthy retreat are named for former guests (Winston Churchill, George Bernard Shaw); each one is charmingly outfitted in antique-inspired pieces, dainty patterns and marble-lined bathrooms, and has a private balcony or patio. To sprawl out, we’d recommend upgrading to a suite; they have separate living rooms and more generous floor plans (around 500 square feet), and the Deluxe Suites have the added bonus of a pantry. While you’re here, spend at least a few nights at the cocktail bar, where you’ll find live music percolating and some of the best mixed drinks you’ll ever have (we love the frothy Living Coral, with passion fruit juice, egg white, gin, and madeira that was aged for five years).

You're here because

They haven’t ignored wee guests, who are just as pampered as high-rollers with tiny robes and slippers, kids-only toiletries, custom bed linens and activities that range from baking Madeiran dough dolls to whipping up mocktails with local passion fruit and vanilla ice cream.

The Moment

There is no afternoon tea quite like what you’ll have in a palace, and this palace is no exception—elegant attire is required. When your table overlooks the glimmering sea and your tray includes fresh baked scones with clotted cream and finger sandwiches, would you expect anything less?

Restaurants & Bars

William Restaurant - Traditional cuisine

The Dinning Room - Small plates celebrating local artisanal fare

Ristorante Villa Cipriani - Italian cuisine

Afternoon Tea

Cocktail Bar

Pool Terrace

Location

A cliffside perch in Madeira’s Funchal city, an 11 minute drive from Monte Palace Madeira, a luxuriant botanical garden chockablock with roaming peacocks, black swans and Icelandic white swans.