Les Suites at the Cliff Bay - PortoBay

After researching literally all the 5-star options in the Funchal area, and consulting with my travel agent, who had just done site visits to two other top-tier places I was considering, I settled on Les Suites at The Cliff Bay for its seaside location, its spacious and modern suites, and the excellent reviews here and elsewhere. It ended up being the perfect choice. I booked our six-night stay directly on The Cliff Bay website and chose the “Holiday Package” rate that included airport transfers, breakfast, and three dinners at Avista. We were picked up at Funchal airport by a charming driver in a sleek Mercedes sedan and checked in at the intimate and inviting Les Suites lobby. It was a pleasant surprise to discover that we had been upgraded to a Sea View Garden Suite. First impressions were terrific: the suite was incredibly spacious, with the most storage space we’ve ever had at any hotel (huge double closets with lots of hanging space and drawers). We were welcomed with a chilled bottle of champagne and a platter of fruit. The décor was contemporary, with some stylish mid-century modern touches. The bathroom was large, bright, pristine, and well-stocked with plush towels, bathrobes, slippers, and Bvlgari toiletries. The suite felt very residential—like an Auberge or Edition property—its ample living room housing a leather sofa, arm chair with ottoman, and writing desk. There were two large televisions and a Marshall Bluetooth speaker. Coffee cups and a variety of stemware and glassware were provided, and there was a generous minibar filled with pricey snacks and beverages. Coffee and tea were complimentary and replenished daily (as was the fruit platter). Outside was a generous terrace with more seating, and beyond that two lounge chairs with an umbrella on the lawn overlooking what must be one of the best views in all of Funchal. We spent a lot of time outside just drinking in that intoxicating view. After unpacking, we toured around Les Suites and The Cliff Bay next door. We were impressed by how quiet Les Suites was: even though the hotel was at full capacity, there was plenty of space around the infinity pool, and we rarely saw other guests in the hallways. I expected The Cliff Bay to be much more crowded and noisier, but it too had a surprisingly serene vibe. Yes, it was much more crowded, but people were just quietly enjoying the pools and the views. On our first night we had the first of three dinners at Avista, and it was so impressive. Since dinners were included, I wasn’t expecting much, to be honest, but this was Michelin worthy dining. Both the Asian and Mediterranean options were innovative, delicious, and artistically presented. The service was incredibly warm and polished, and the views…spectacular. We looked forward to our breakfasts at Avista every morning. The hostess had the restaurant running like a well-oiled machine. We enjoyed the generous buffet offerings and always ordered something else from the a la carte

We were travelling as a family with a 9 month old (our first trip abroad) and the team at PortoBay made it such an effortless and enjoyable experience for us. The rooms were perfectly appointed and provided all the essentials for us with a baby: cot, high chair, baby bath, etc. They also went above this and provided very nice complementary touches such as some swim nappies and fruit smoothie pouches each evening for our baby to enjoy. The hotel is faultless and we really enjoyed our break.

Outstanding holiday spent at Les Suites at The Cliff Bay, Truly exceptional service, polite, friendly staff who also recommended some great places to see. fantastic rooms matched with the sea views- In-house restaurants, particularly AVISTA is highly recommend for either lunch or Dinner.

We stayed in one of the duplex suites at Les Suites. It is modern and so well decorated and presented. For the first time at any hotel we've stayed in, absolutely everything worked as it should! The tech was perfect, with screen mirroring or hdmi cable connections to either TV meant we could watch our own selection of entertainment faultlessly. And USB-a sockets everywhere, including out on balcony. Will definately be returning.

Everything at this hotel is perfect from the minute you arrive until you leave. Staff very welcoming and helpful. Food excellent in the restaurants.

Everything at the hotel from the spacious room, the location, and particularly the food and the service was excellent. One of the best hotels we've ever stayed at.

A wonderful stay. The suite was amazing and food in Avista outstanding. Service and friendliness of staff is exceptional.

Another trip to this wonderful hotel will be back soon. Staff excellent and facilities at Les Suites wonderful, peaceful and private luxury break. David and Pauline

My wife and I have been long term supporters of the Portobay Group having been to their hotels in Madeira over the last twenty six years. We think they are a really professional outfit, particularly when measured against competing hotel groups on the island. We’ve just got back from two weeks at Les Suites and our enthusiasm for the group and what they provide is undiminished. The laudatory comments posted by other reviewers on this site are well deserved and need no repeating by me, except in one regard. As I am sure all guests will agree, it’s very nice to have good quality fittings and fixtures, delicious food, fine linens and bedding, surroundings of all descriptions, but the real difference between hotels of similar star ratings is in the standard of service provided by the individual members of staff. In this respect Les Suites is on a different plane. They excel in all areas. We’ll be going back. Soon. However, there is a problem with Les Suites; once you’ve been here, you, like us, will be spoiled for anywhere else. You have been warned!