Royal Savoy Hotel

While first impressions of the Royal Savoy hotel can certainly lack a little in wow factor, a smartly dressed doorman ushering guests up polished granite steps to a shimmering metal entrance does lend more than a note of class from the get-go. Stepping through the revolving door, the lobby is bright and welcoming with soft furnishings, contemporary lighting, and tribal artwork, creating an eclectic and homey vibe. While the original hotel dates back to the early 1900s, the modern incarnation that stands today was opened around a century later in 2002, at a cost of close to €40 million. To the rear of the hotel, undulating pastel pink balconies overlook spacious sun terraces and gardens lined with tropical flora and palm trees, and just beyond that is the deep blue of the Atlantic Ocean. The resort attracts vacationing couples of all ages -- though mostly the more senior end -- while also being popular with time-share holders.

The hotel is situated in a quiet area on a stretch of rocky coastline overlooking the Bay of Funchal. There are a few restaurants within a short stroll, and the striking Casino da Madeira is under a 10-minute walk away. Funchal's city center is about a five- to 10-minute drive away (or a 20-minute downhill stroll) and is full of museums, bars, and eateries, as well as the quaint cobbled streets of Old Town. It's a 15-minute walk to Marina Funchal, where cruise ships dock and ferry connections to Porto Santo island are offered. Madeira Airport is about a 20-minute drive.

The hotel has 174 rooms, suites, and apartments, all of which are traditionally decorated with island-style touches, floral fabrics, and a mixture of homey wooden and rattan furnishings. The effect is pleasant and comfortable, though some might find it a little old fashioned. All rooms open to furnished balconies that overlook the sea (though some views are somewhat obscured by tall trees). Amenities include free Wi-Fi, minibars, and flat-screen TVs with some premium channels and pay movies. Suites and one-bedroom apartments also include kitchenettes, and in-room dining is available. Bathrooms are bright and clean with designer toiletries and terrycloth robes.

A particularly generous buffet breakfast is served in the hotel's Armada Restaurant (and included in the rate), though many guests choose to take breakfast in-room. The restaurant is also open for lunch and dinner, and usually set menus and half-board rates are available (prices tend to be quite high). A cocktail piano bar has nightly live music. The hotel's large outdoor terrace includes a saltwater pool with a poolside bar, plus a separate splash pool for kids. There are also a heated indoor pool, a whirlpool tub, sauna, and steam room. The spa offers a good range of massage and body treatments, and there's a small fitness center.