Book Your Stay at Quinta Jardins Do Lago, Funchal (Madeira)

The hotel sits within 2.5 hectares of botanical gardens that contain more than 600 different plant species, including centuries-old trees and tropical plants. A giant Galapagos tortoise named Colombo, approximately 67 years old, lives in a dedicated area of the grounds and is a resident attraction for guests. The gardens are maintained by a team that includes a Kew Gardens-trained botanist, who leads guided tours of the property.

Accommodations are spread between an 18th-century mansion and a newer wing, with 31 double rooms, 4 historic junior suites, and 5 premier suites. Several rooms in the original house feature four-poster beds and private roof terraces, while all standard rooms offer balconies overlooking the gardens. The property also includes a villa with space for up to 8 guests, which has been offered as a complimentary upgrade to families.

Beresford Restaurant, named after General Beresford who once lived in the house, serves Madeiran and international cuisine in a room that displays a sideboard from the Napoleonic Wars. Breakfast is served in the gardens, on the terrace, or in the Jade Room, with fresh eggs and other dishes made to order alongside a daily changing buffet. The poolside Colombo Bistro offers light lunches and afternoon tea, and O Visconde Bar hosts live music every evening with a happy hour from 9 pm.

A large heated lagoon-style swimming pool is surrounded by sun terraces, with the water kept at 25°C and a separate hot tub at 34°C. Wellness facilities include a gym, sauna, Turkish bath, and a relaxation room, with towels provided for all areas. Guests also have access to a library, a billiards table, a croquet lawn, and table tennis, plus evening entertainment with live music and singing performances.

The hotel is situated 1.5 km from the centre of Funchal on a hill, with views over the city and the sea from the gardens and upper-floor rooms. A complimentary shuttle service runs to and from the city centre at scheduled times, with additional trips arranged when the shuttle is full. Madeira International Airport is 18 km away, and the hotel offers secure gated parking, a tour desk, and car hire assistance through reception.

Gardens: 2.5 hectares with 600+ plant species

Resident: Colombo the giant Galapagos tortoise

Rooms: 18th-century mansion with 4-poster beds

Dining: Beresford Restaurant with Napoleonic-era sideboard

Wellness: Heated pool, sauna, Turkish bath, hot tub

Location: 1.5 km from Funchal with free shuttle

Family: Villa accommodation for up to 8 guests