Funchal Design Hotel

Upon landing in Madeira, we headed straight to the hotel to check in. Although we didn't arrive until 11 p.m., the process was smooth. We spent three nights here recovering from jet lag. The property boasts a great location alongside very comfortable and well-appointed rooms. Breakfast was enjoyable, and the customer service was excellent. Special thanks to Isabella for ensuring our first visit to Madeira was a truly memorable one.

None

The location

It seems a bit old: elements of the shower are looser, the corners in the bathroom dirty/ warn, generally dark and the rooms have little charm.

Very nice hotel in an excellent location, which made it very easy to wander and explore the city. The rooms were comfortable, and the breakfast spread was delicious - with fresh fruit, juices, breads, cheeses, meats, smoked salmon, warm cooked food on a daily basis. We stayed 6 nights and enjoyed the variety. But the best asset of the hotel is the staff. Without exception, they were friendly, and Ricardo, the manager, was the best.

It was surprising that filtered water was not available in the hotel. Yet, the staff said that drinking tap water is nor recommended. So, we had to buy water, and add to plastic pollution which would be a problem on an island. So, it would be better if the hotel offers free filtered water in glass bottles that can be re-used.

My room was clean and comfortable. The staff is very friendly and helpful

The concept of the hotel is unusual. It’s supposed to be a 4-star hotel. I would give max. a very weak 3. there’s no common room, no (real) bar and the reception is a simple desk. If you want to use such facilities as swimming pool or sauna, you can go to a sister hotel, which is literally on a mountain and to get there it’s necessary to pre-book a shuttle, or well, you can pay for a taxi. The breakfast is very simple, and always the same. The rooms don’t have tea, coffee, not even soap for the hands - I had to ask for it.