Our first trip together in Madeira and our first stay at Cliff Bay Hotel.

The hotel is well situated for those who like to or can walk into town. The view from our room (5th floor) was excellent and better than one offered as an upgrade (6th floor). We looked out over the sea, marina and the town. The room size was good although the decor and finish is not the same as some Asian 5 star hotels we have stayed in (eg Shangri La, Bangkok, Singapore). The drinks in the Cliff Bar as typical 5 star hotel prices (£4 for a coffee). We were B&B and pleased we did not go half board - we enjoy eating out in local restaurants. The price of the buffet looked very high at 39.50 Euros per person and other reviews suggest that it can be repetitive as most buffets are! Breakfast choice and quality were very good, although some of the hot food served in the tureens (bacon, tomato etc) looked a little past its prime.

The Spa facilities were good but again a little lacking when compared to other 5 star hotels. We were a little disappointed that although not obviously busy, the beauty treatments were rarely available at short notice. Having come back from an excellent tour of the island, a relaxing body massage would have been nice but wasnt available, not through being full as the treatment rooms were not in use, but lack of available staff. I can understand the economics of not having staff around just in case, but it did feel rather 'shoestring'.

Pool and sun lounge areas were good and staff friendly and attentive. Again it is a shame that even when quiet and staying for over a week, the prices of pool side drinks (tea for one 4 Euros) is a little disappointing but again 5 star hotel pricing. One day someone will catch on to the real benefit that having paid 1500 Euros for 9 nights accom includng breakfast, hotels do not really need to keep charging silly prices for drinks when I am sure they dont buy better products or pay their staff so much more in wages!

Bar areas are comfortable and relaxing and quiet (albeit in winter). The local patiserie about 400 yards away is excellent for take away pastries, rolls, and local delicacies.

The best way to see the island in our opinion is not to hire a car or go on an organised tour, but talk to the local yellow taxis - we had a fantastic English speaking driver with whom we spent two days seeing all the island and getting places that the regular tours dont go to. We paced the day to suit ourselves. At 100 euros for a five hour plus tour with guide, it is more that the tours would cost but you see so much more. And no queues for the WC when the coaches all pull in!

Cliff Bay Hotel clearly attracts many people back as does Madeira itself and I can see the attraction of the island. I am not sure going back to the same hotel year on year is our bag anyway but the Cliff Bay, whilst very good, did not have the WOW factor to make us change our minds.

All round summary, good but not mind blowing - mind you we have been lucky enough to have been really spoilt in the past couple of years.