We have recently returned home from an 11 night break at Eden Mar, and if I could have mark out of 10 it would score 9+.
Situation and Welcome. Slap bang in the 'hotel zone', therefore well sited for the promenade, lots of restaurants (a number of which I have commented on), shops, tour outlets and the like, being about one mile (say a 20 minute walk) from Funchal centre. Lots of eye contact and smiles from the friendly and knowledgable reception staff.
Suite. We stayed in Room 1135, a 'superior' suite overlooking the Eden Mar gardens and outside dining area. Reasonably roomy, with a pleasant balcony, flooded with light in the mornings and kept immaculately clean by our maid. Useful small 'kitchenette' with fridge, hot plates, and basic crockery and cutlery.
The Hotel. Part of, and next door to, the Porto Mare (slightly posher than Eden Mar) which is, in turn, next door to the third arm, The Residence - a timeshare operation. The Eden Mar and Porto Mare share the same gardens, pools, restaurants, bars, on-site gift shops and other facilities. As it's such a large complex, it's well worth while listening to your receptionist when you first arrive to 'get a handle' on the extent of the 'estate', then to orientate yourself at an early stage with the map you are given.
Gardens. Extensive and superb. The hotel are very proud of their gardens, and there are...We have recently returned home from an 11 night break at Eden Mar, and if I could have mark out of 10 it would score 9+.
Situation and Welcome. Slap bang in the 'hotel zone', therefore well sited for the promenade, lots of restaurants (a number of which I have commented on), shops, tour outlets and the like, being about one mile (say a 20 minute walk) from Funchal centre. Lots of eye contact and smiles from the friendly and knowledgable reception staff.
Suite. We stayed in Room 1135, a 'superior' suite overlooking the Eden Mar gardens and outside dining area. Reasonably roomy, with a pleasant balcony, flooded with light in the mornings and kept immaculately clean by our maid. Useful small 'kitchenette' with fridge, hot plates, and basic crockery and cutlery.
The Hotel. Part of, and next door to, the Porto Mare (slightly posher than Eden Mar) which is, in turn, next door to the third arm, The Residence - a timeshare operation. The Eden Mar and Porto Mare share the same gardens, pools, restaurants, bars, on-site gift shops and other facilities. As it's such a large complex, it's well worth while listening to your receptionist when you first arrive to 'get a handle' on the extent of the 'estate', then to orientate yourself at an early stage with the map you are given.
Gardens. Extensive and superb. The hotel are very proud of their gardens, and there are weekly trips around them, with trees, cacti and flowers from all over the world.
Facilities. Comprehensive. Indoor and outdoor pools...Numerous sunlounger areas (with no towels on the lounger reserving allowed)...Poolside bar...Bars...Indoor and outdoor restaurants...Gift Shops...Wine store...Themed evenings...Visiting musicians...the list goes on.
What could be improved? Very very little, but I think the managament are missing a trick or two with the bars. (1) One evening my wife and I dropped off at one of the bars for cocktails before venturing out for a meal. There was no atmosphere and service was slow. However, we'd have been happy to stay for two (prices are OK) but before I could ask I was presented with the bill to sign! I did, and we left. (2) The poolside bar staff keep the sunlounger tables clear by removing empty glasses and generally tidying up as they go along. Fair enough, but why wasn't I asked if I'd like another beer at the same time? 9 timesout of 10 I would! Nil cost to the hotel (the staff are on duty anyway) but increased sales for the bar. .
This was our first time on Madeira, but it won't be our last. It is a delightful island with superb scenery and lots to do and see. Wherever we went (and we did three trips out and walked round Funchal a lot) the locals were smiling and friendly. Last but not least, it somehow seems to have missed out completely on the stag and hen brigade and the crowds of young, same sex holiday makers. The Tourist Board have obviously found a niche which works for them. Long may it continue to prosper, We'll be back - to both Madeira and Eden Mar.More
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