Madeira all-inclusive hotels for beach vibes, thrilling activities and decadent gastronomy

Unwind by the glittering Atlantic when you stay at Pestana Ocean Bay All Inclusive. You’re right on Formosa Beach, so a calming morning walk along the shoreline is moments away, though sun worshippers might prefer to linger by the turquoise pool. Top up your tan on a comfortable lounger (complimentary cocktail in hand, of course) before jumping in the Jacuzzi for a soothing soak.

While meals are all included, each room has its own kitchenette – ideal for whipping up breakfast in bed to treat your special someone. Be sure to hit the hotel’s tempting buffet though, to try the likes of fluffy pancakes and freshly baked bread.

Explorer types might take the free shuttle into nearby Funchal. Slip through the island’s heritage-rich capital, marvelling at the 15th-century cathedral and meandering through indigenous flora at Jardim Botânico (Botanical Garden).

With its five-star rating, you’d be right to expect a lot from Pestana Royal All Inclusive. This opulent oceanfront hotel houses an impressive array of features including two outdoor pools and a slick onsite spa. Rooms are decadent, too – all 324 abodes are decorated in soothing neutral tones and have luxuries such as a free minibar. Cheers!

Days can be as busy as you like here, with plenty to do both onsite and nearby. Stroll in just minutes to Formosa Beach for water sports and sunbathing, or hit the hotel’s tennis courts for a lively match. There’s mini golf for family fun and a Kids’ Club to entertain younger guests, while the open-air solarium is a great place to relax with a gripping holiday read.

Bask in the beauty of Funchal’s waterfront when you stay at the Enotel Lido. This five-star delight exudes a sense of exclusivity, with designer decor and a range of high-end amenities, including a tranquil spa.

A variety of restaurants will keep you well fed with dishes from around the world. Feast in Kai Restaurant on the likes of fresh sushi and rum-laced pineapple flambé, or sample local specialities such as espetada (beef skewers) in Madeiran eatery O Bailinho. When you’re not busy satiating your appetite, use the hotel’s direct access to Funchal’s promenade for a swoon-worthy walk along the coast.

Rooms come in chic earthy tones, complemented by colourful textiles and sleek wooden flooring. Snag yourself a suite for an extra treat – we’re talking two feather-soft double beds and a generous outdoor terrace for those sundowner drinks.

Migrate to Madeira’s picturesque southwest to find the four-star Savoy Calheta Beach. Nestled in a relatively undiscovered corner of the island by one of Madeira’s only golden sand beaches, this place is an oasis of calm.

Grab yourself a lounger to chill out poolside – preferably close to Pôr do Sol, an inviting pool bar serving mouthwatering snacks and a range of local drinks. Alternatively, venture into nearby Calheta, for a wander round the marina and to explore the quaint historic churches that the village is famous for.

Luxury rooms unlock views over the majestic mountains and sparkling sea, with floral wallpaper and colourful linens instilling a distinctive, modern flair. The hotel also has a range of high-end facilities including a fitness room and traditional Turkish bath – ideal if you’re aiming to completely unwind.

Eager to really get away from it all? The four-star Vila Baleira Resort
can assist. This exquisite hotel is located on the tiny Madeiran island of Porto Santo, about 43km from Madeira itself. In a spacious suite, you’ll savour the luxury of two bedrooms robed in tranquil terracotta decor. There’s also a generous balcony with awe-inspiring sea views – morning coffee in the sunshine, anyone?

Fringed by unspoiled beaches with sands that are said to have medicinal qualities, this is a hotel geared towards wellness. In between a spot of scuba diving and learning new moves at a salsa class, indulge at the Baleira Talassa and Spa with innovative balneotherapy – an ultra-rejuvenating form of hydrotherapy that uses mineral waters.

Sample traditional Madeiran dishes at the onsite restaurants and hit Navegador Bar later on for drinks such as rum-laced cocktails – they’ll see you through a music-filled theme night in the hotel’s sparkling amphitheatre.

Beach, spa and unlimited gastronomy – what’s not to love about the Hotel Riu Palace Madeira? You’re just 10 metres from the sea here, so dive in for a swim or maybe slip on scuba gear and discover the local marine life. There’s plenty to do on land too, with tennis courts and a steamy sauna, plus two nearby golf courses for those handy with a set of clubs.

Hugging the coast around Caniço in Madeira’s sunny southeast, this four-star hotel blends indulgent facilities with effortlessly elegant rooms – think calming cream decor and deep mahogany furnishings. In a Junior Suite, the separate lounge provides ample space to sip your chosen beverage, while the ocean-facing balcony is ideal for unwinding in the balmy sunshine.

The food here is pretty special, too. From the likes of indulgent waffles and hearty omelettes at breakfast to traditional Madeiran dishes created from a range of local ingredients at dinner, there’s something to suit all tastes.

Soak up the paradise-like surrounds of Ponta Delgada when you stay at the Monte Mar Palace. Flanked by cloud-fringed mountains that stretch down into the ocean, this four-star gem is also partially encircled by the lush Laurissilva forest. Trace woodland trails or rugged coastal paths to explore the best of Madeira right from the hotel’s door.

You’ll sleep soundly in terracotta-toned suites that are designed for supreme comfort – some even have their own bubbling spa baths. There are two outdoor pools for swims in the sun, though the Jacuzzi and steam room will likely tempt you indoors for a bit of extra pampering.

Once you’ve balanced your chakras with a massage in the Spa and Therapy Centre, head to the Montado restaurant for a bountiful buffet featuring the likes of colourful salads, fish dishes, succulent meats and other locally inspired creations.

Back on Madeira’s sister isle is five-star dazzler Pestana Porto Santo All Inclusive. Lauded as one of Europe’s best all-inclusive hotels, this accommodation has everything from turquoise pools and a sumptuous spa to 30,000 square metres of manicured tropical gardens.

Revel in your prime location on one of Portugal’s finest beaches, taking morning walks along golden sands. A free shuttle will zip you over to the cobbled streets of central Vila Baleira, or you could just stay onsite – with a games room, volleyball court and a diverse selection of daily classes, there’s plenty to keep you entertained.

Treat your taste buds at the hotel’s six restaurants and five bars. Koi Restaurant serves dishes like freshly sliced sashimi, while Sunset Bar has your holiday cocktail needs sorted with drinks such as creamy piña coladas.