Pestana Palms

The Pestana Palms is a four-pearl aparthotel that appeals to vacation-seekers with its immaculate grounds and seafront location. The property comprises the main colonial-style house which houses reception, another room block, and the more striking circular building seemingly perched in the water. This setting means guests have direct access to the water via a private staircase, which is a rarity in the area. Guests generally are taking advantage of this or utilizing the sea-view pool, though pretty vistas also abound at the A Flor do Mar Restaurant and some rooms. While some interiors are chic and sophisticated, such as the Vila Lido Bar's lime-green couches and striped wallpaper, others have dated wood furniture and mismatched patterns. Still, most past guests have been willing to overlook some of the more old-fashioned elements.  

Pestana Palms Ocean Aparthotel has a superb location along the coast, allowing for direct access to the water. It also boasts close proximity to the town center (a 20-minute walk) and Lido Promenade (a four-minute walk) -- both key destinations for tourists in Madeira. However, it's located away from the tourist strip of hotels down a steep hill, which may be cumbersome for some -- though it's only a two- to three-minute walk and this means there's less road noise. Travelers who plan to take advantage of the kitchenettes can find a well-stocked Pingo Doce supermarket opposite the property. For those looking to dine out, a few restaurant options are across the road. The Madeira Airport is a 25-minute drive away, and the hotel offers free parking. Carless travelers will also find regular buses at the top of the hill and can arrange a shuttle to the airport via the front desk.

Apartment-style rooms are generously sized but have a dated feel due to their striped brown carpet, pastel wall colors, and honey-toned wood furniture. There are pleasant damask wallpaper and attractive white wooden furniture, too, which give the spaces more appeal and a homey vibe. All rooms have furnished balconies or terraces, either with garden views or gorgeous sea vistas. Most notable is that all have fully equipped kitchenettes with mini-fridges, stovetops, kettles, and all necessary cookware. Also standard are small flat-screen cable TVs, free Wi-Fi, and in-room safes (for a fee). Bathrooms have light-colored tiling with a couple stripes of teal, marble sinks, and floral artwork. They feature shower/tub combos, magnifying mirrors, wall-mounted hairdryers, and toiletries. Some higher-category rooms add bathrobes and slippers. Rooms range from Studios to Two-Bedroom Apartments, with the latter being a good choice for groups of friends and families. 

Pestana Palms has an excellent array of offerings, but it particularly stands out against the crowd for its direct access to the water via a staircase. An on-site diving school also means guests can swim, snorkel, or scuba dive from the property. The well-maintained pool is another drawcard, as it overlooks the water and is surrounded by loungers. One downside, though, is that umbrellas will cost extra. Facilities are a bit dated, but the spa offers a range of treatments, sauna, and whirlpool overlooking the sea. Also available are a game room with billiards, library with shelves of books, and gym that's small and in need of an update. Wi-Fi is free but can be spotty.

For guests not cooking in their rooms, there are two quality restaurants on-site, plus bed-and-breakfast, half-board, and full-board options. The A Flor do Mar restaurant has sea-inspired blue-and-white decor, and an outdoor terrace with breathtaking views. The Vila Lido Bar & Bistro has a chic dining and cocktail area by a fireplace, plus there's often live music. A pool bar is available for snacks and drinks during the day.