Quinta da Saraiva Review – A boutique B&B in Madeira
Updated: January 12, 2024
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A historic property, Quinta da Saraiva provides a fantastic base in Madeira, complete with a pool, hot tub and amazing views. The location of the property not only means the vistas are fantastic, but that easy access to most parts of the island is possible thanks to the nearby bus stops and highways.
Still in the hands of the family descendants, the focus here is on relaxing hospitality, delivered by a small friendly team, whilst leaving you to enjoy the Quinta at your own pace due to the Boutique B&B guest-house style lodging.
The price point is more than reasonable, the location is stunning, and the property is finished to a high standard – as such this has been deemed a ‘Guide2Portugal Unforgettable Stay’ – and you can see exactly why in this video.
Read on below for our full review of Quinta Da Saraiva, with a special €50 discount for our readers when booking direct!
The reception and bar area in an old wine cellar
Arrival and check-in – 8/10
Arrival to Quinta da Saraiva was smooth and quick from the airport. Opting for a taxi, it took just over 20-minutes to reach the Quinta.
It’s well located next to the highway, and the local driver handled the narrow final road with ease, though if you’re not used to Madeiran roads, you might want to swing those wing mirrors in. Parking exclusively for the Quinta is found alongside the property, including an electric car charging station.
Due to a delay, my arrival was out of hours, and the team had provided me with codes for the main gate, and also for the bedroom doors – all of which use smart technology and code systems, making it smooth and easy. Waking up the next morning to realise how stunning the view was being a fantastic surprise.
Check-out was processed in the Reception area, located in the old wine cellar, and which doubles as a bar area. It was smooth and quick, with credit card payments and invoicing handled with ease.
All bedrooms in the Quinta have individual touches
Bedrooms and amenities – 8/10
Recently renovated, Quinta da Saraiva provides the perfect boutique B&B experience. A historic property, the Quinta has been loving restored and is ready to welcome guests like a part of the family. Being a 3* B&B some of the facilities of larger hotels are lacking, but this is more than made up for with the setting and service, for those who want a relaxing and traditional get away without paying for all the faff of a five-star.
Each room at the Quinta has been styled individually, with sweet-touches such as painted tiles on the doors and Portuguese patterns on the soft furnishings. The ground floor rooms retain the properties original exposed brick-work, while the upper floors are more modern. Behind the main house are some larger suites, ideal for families or those who prefer self-catering facilities.
The pool and hot-tub framed by amazing views
The rooms are equipped with Smart TVs, USB chargers, and spacious modern bathrooms. We particularly appreciated that no miniature toiletries were used, supporting the properties aim of being as environmentally friendly as possible – right down to the Quinta’s goats who make sure there is no food waste!
The property dates back to the 18th-century, and photos, artefacts and stories can be found in the hallways – including local art and traditions like embroidery.
Still family-run, it’s a perfect blend of classic and modern. The star feature though is undoubtedly the swimming pool and hot tub with their incredible views, especially at sunset. Set amongst 5000 square meters of agricultural land, vines, banana plants and various fruits and vegetables are in the gardens and the surrounding landscapes. This means that agro-tourism activities, such as caring for the goats or hens and learning about the vines and plantations of the island are possible on site – especially fun I imagine for the little ones.
Breakfast is a delightful spread
Dining and drinking – 9/10
As well as the aforementioned bar in the cellar-area, which turns into an honesty bar out of hours, Breakfast is the food offering in the Quinta and they do it very well.
Of course, you can grab a banana at any time from the grounds, or get some fresh eggs in the morning to go with your breakfast. Breakfast is severed either in the formal dining lounge or the terrace with incredible views.
A delightful spread, and included with the stay, expect individual platters of fresh fruit, jam, breads, cheese, salads, hams, pastries and local juices and coffee.
Local wine tasting or Madeiran BBQs can be arranged on the on-site facilities via the manager Roberto. Lunch and dinner aren’t offered by the Quinta, but there are many local restaurants in the close-by area.
From time to time the Quinta hosts special events – such as Sushi dining experiences, or special menus, so be sure to enquire if these are an option during your visit.
Set amongst banana plantation and vineyards
Location 9/10
Situated upon a hill, in Camara do Lobos, the views are incredible across the valley and out to the Atlantic.
This positioning means you are very close to the highways, and bus stops, which allows you easy access to not just Funchal in around 10-minutes, but also all popular driving destinations and day-trips on the islands.
While there are a supermarket and restaurants in the immediate vicinity, the port, which retains an authentic fishing atmosphere is a 20-minute downhill walk away.
Here you’ll find to plenty of bars and restaurants, it also has claims to fame, such as being home to the islands signature rum cocktail, Poncha, and a favourite destination of Winston Churchill.
This part of the island seemed much more relaxed and authentic than the tourist developments closer to Funchal – with the prices and local atmosphere reflecting that. Overall, our week here out of a one-month trip to the archipelago was our favourite place to base ourselves.
Opt for a balcony room with a sea-view
In summary – 9/10
Thanks to the wonderful team, delightful furnishing, history of the property and especially the sunset soak in the hot tub, we fell in love with the Quinta.
We were very impressed with nearly all aspects of the Quinta da Saraiva – especially given its price point. It is very fairly priced, which perhaps it due to the recent opening and current 2020 situation – we would expect the price to increase in times to come, so book in now to enjoy a fantastic deal.
Book Quinta da Saraiva with a discount
For the best rates book direct at www.quintadasaraiva.com – for our readers, you may enjoy a special discount when booking direct courtesy of our travel writer Dan. When booking, simply enter the code DANFLYINGSOLO to receive a €50 discount on any stays of over 4 nights. This also includes breakfast for two, free park, and a fruit and water welcome pack. (Code valid for reservations until 31/12/2021)
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