Hotel Quinta Jardins do Lago in Funchal

Elegant stay amid botanical splendour in Funchal

Once upon a time, in the 18th century, someone decided to build a mansion. Fast forward to today, and you've got Quinta Jardins do Lago, a place where the rooms are as roomy as a giant's shoe closet. The balconies? Let's just say the views are the kind that make you forget your Instagram password. With 600 plant species, the gardens are like Noah's Ark, but for plants, minus the boat.

Eating here is a bit like traveling without moving. At Beresford Restaurant, you get dishes with flavors that tango between continents. And if you're thirsty, there are bars. Not one, but two. One's by the pool, where mango trees throw shade—literally. It's a setup that might make you wonder whether you stumbled into a postcard.

Quinta Jardins do Lago isn't just about looking pretty. It's got a lagoon pool that could double as a mermaid hangout, a gym for those who feel guilty about eating too much local delicacy, and a sauna that might just sweat the stress out of your bones. A mere 1.5 km from Funchal's hustle and bustle, there’s free parking for those brave enough to drive and a shuttle for those who aren't. It’s the kind of place where couples might find themselves whispering sweet nothings, or perhaps just discussing the peculiarities of Portuguese wine.

Practical information about Quinta Jardins do Lago