Baia Azul

This is a great hotel in a good location just outside of Funchal. We had a balcony room with a truly fabulous sea-view; ask for a room on the higher floors to really appreciate it.

The hotel itself is clean and spacious with a good bar and reception area. It was November when we visited so didn't go to the pool but in summer it should be fine for sunbathing. As for location, walking into Funchal is easy and if you fancy a longer walk you can get to Camara de Lobos where there are some excellent restaurants.

We felt the buffet was a little limited and lacked variety although there was plenty of food so you won't go hungry. The drinks service was very good and we enjoyed the cocktail selection. Entertainment was a bit dreary - why do hotels assume everyone over 60 wants to listen to old crooners? - although we were treated to a very good Madeiran singing/dancing troupe.

Overall we had a very good holiday at the Baia Azul and would definitely recommend it as a base to explore the area.

We have just returned from a wonderful holiday in Madeira staying at the Baia Azul hotel in Funchal. The hotel is in a beautiful location with stunning seaviews (although do book a high level sea view room for the best view). There are two lovely pools (indoor and outdoor) and plenty of nice spaces to be. There is entertainment every evening and if you want to go out to eat or drink there are bars and cafes close by. All the staff are friendly and helpful and work so hard to make sure guests have a great time. However a really big thank you goes to Mario, Cesar and the waiters and chefs for accomodating my dairy free diet. They made sure that there was always something lovely for me to eat. When you have allergies/intolerances it is often hard to eat away from home. The kindness of everyone at this hotel will not be forgotten.

Spacious, clean and well maintained hotel just on the outskirts of Funchal. But don’t worry there is a complimentary coach service to the city centre or local transport. We enjoyed the pool area and none of this business of early morning towels being put on the sun beds - there was plenty of room for every one to enjoy. Look out for the secret entrance that takes you to the promenade. The rooms are all the same just what you prefer sea view or view of the main road which is marketed as Mountain View. Down side was the Evening entertainment usual out on the sun deck so no avoiding them and they were loud. Only good point was the traditional Madeira folk music dressed in traditional costume that came on during the intermission and then back to the dreary entertainment. The breakfast was on the lower floor with plenty of seating. As vegetarians the buffet was limited. Overall we were disappointed and felt it was over priced for what it was though we booked through Jet2 who weren’t interested in our feedback to them.