The Residence Porto Mare - PortoBay

We stayed at the Porto Mare for a week with family. The hotel was excellent, the grounds beautiful and well kept with lovely sea views. There are lots of loungers available and we could always find one! The location is great. You can walk into Funchal but there are plenty of taxis and a bus stop outside the hotel if needed. We only booked breakfast which was fresh and plentiful. We didn't eat in the hotel buffet or restaurants but people I spoke to said that both options were excellent. There are plenty of restaurants within walking distance. All staff are friendly and professional. If I was being really picky the service at the Veranda bar could be a little slow but we weren't in any real rush! Overall a great holiday.

Back at the Residence for another year, we can find nothing that was not wonderful! So clean and tidy. Gardens are beautifil. Food at the restaurants is so good and the staff friendly and attentive. Plenty of pools to cool down in and never feels crowded.

This has got to rank among one of the best hotels we have ever stayed at. Our room was immaculate and well appointed, I cannot find anything negative to say about it. We were bed,breakfast and evening meal and the food was plentiful, lots to choose from and very nice, something for evryone. The hotel inside and out was in excellent condition, very well maintained and the outside pool and gardens were constantly attended. Like all holiday hotels you will get the usual suspects putting towels on the sunbeds around the pool, there are signs saying that this will not be tolerated but I never saw it being policed whilst I was there. However, we always managed to get two sunbeds together no matter what time we got to the pool. The age groups of the hotel guests varied but I would say mostly 50+ the children that were there were all having a great time in the many child friendly pools. Loads of places outside the hotel for food and drink and there is a bus stop just outside the hotel to catch the very cheap bus into Funchal.

First time in Madeira so had no idea what to expect. It is a beautiful island with lots of trips and tours to keep you busy-quite expensive though. July is not wall to wall sunshine- it was drizzling when we arrived and the weather in the mountains is a lot cooler and wetter so bring a light rain jacket if you plan to walk the levadas- and good non-slip walking shoes/trainers. The Residence is great to come back to after a busy day- our studio apartment was large and had a double aspect view - we could see a lovely park and the sea. I had read some rooms were noisy and I can see that those overlooking the street would be, but ours was quiet and comfortable. Rituals toiletries are provided, so no need to pack shampoo, conditioner, body wash, body lotion or hand wash. Pool towels also provided and a hairdryer, iron, ironing board and safe. We had two electric rings and a microwave so ate in a few nights - the nearby supermarket is well stocked and reasonably priced. There was also a little box of tricks in the bathroom with kits of useful things. Staff were mainly very friendly and helpful - they answered our queries where possible but could probably be a bit more proactive in suggesting where to eat etc if not booked on a full board basis. A couple of the males at reception were a little brusque. Housekeeping staff were particularly nice and work hard to maintain a high standard. Location is good with plenty of restaurants nearby. There was never a struggle to get a sunbed- I have never seen so many at one location. We were booked for bed and breakfast - which was served up until 10-30am. Great selection of food available. Really loved this hotel and will hopefully be back- I hope to be able to get the same room as it was ideal for us.

We loved this place, wonderful hotel, fabulous gardens, great staff. Our 1 bed was huge very clean and very well equipped. I used the gym which was very nice.

It's like coming home when my annual fortnight holiday comes around. 16 years ago we purchased a garden apartment Time Share and have had some wonderful holidays. It's such a safe, friendly place that even after ian died I knew I could come on my own. The food is amazing in all the restaurants but the Portuguese Night at the Alfarna is a must. Staff are so accommodating and nothing is too much trouble from Patricia (Bar Varonda)who knows my morning drink before I open my mouth, Virgilio Rodriques (Porto Fino Bar) who also knows which wine I drink to the staff in Atlantida who welcome me each day with my name. Paolo and Cindy (Residence) are lovely people. Paolo especially gives great hugs. The main person I would single out who makes my holiday so memorable is Luis Soares. A joy to know, so kind and caring, loved by guests, respected by his staff and works far too hard! It's always sad saying goodbye to these special 'friends'. Porto Bay complex is a very pleasant place to spend a holiday. Easy bus service into Funchal, good entertainment in the hotel at night, wide choice of eating places in and around the complex. Weather usually good and a the pools very inviting for a dip when its hot.