The Cliff Bay, Funchal, Madeira

The Cliff Bay lives up to its name, perched on cliffs in Funchal's 'Hotel Zone' on the west side of the city and close to the famous Reid's Palace hotel. You can walk into the city centre in 20 minutes or take a taxi for around six euros. Valet parking is provided and transfers to the airport take 30 minutes. Nearby, there are more hotels in every direction along with all types of restaurants, including the recommended Chalet Vicente frequented by both locals and visitors.

By plane: there are direct flights to Madeira from London and Manchester (4 hours). The hotel is a 25-minute drive from the airport. Free parking on-site. Book flights to Madeira.

Fabulous flowers are the first impression: in the lounges, filling the gardens and lining the window boxes. The Cliff Bay is a confident, monumental resort with traditional grandeur others have lost, an island of refinement with wood-panelled lifts, corridors lined with stunning black-and-white photos of yachts and an air of civility.

This multi-level resort is so large a lift takes guests down to sea level where there is a seawater pool and restaurant. Another freshwater indoor/outdoor heated pool adjoins the spa. More exercise can be enjoyed in the fitness centre, pilates studio and tennis court and there's also a games room, library and daily activities such as tai chi (charges may apply).

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Swimming pools
• Games room
• Spa
• Fitness centre
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi

The rooms and suites have a calm grandeur with muted colours, a sofa and chairs and innocuous art such as a close-up of a banana leaf. There are eight categories including standard rooms that look towards the car park rather than the sea. All have a balcony and large bed.

Room types: Standard Room, Family Room, Sea View Room, Funchal Bay View Room, Side Sea View, Superior Top Floor Room, Suites

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with Rituals toiletries, bathrobe, tea and coffee facilities, TV, free Wi-Fi

Get your reservation in early for Il Gallo d'Oro, the dinner-only, two Michelin-starred gastronomic restaurant helmed by French chef Benoît Sinthon. A buzzy alternative is Avista which boasts a Josper grill and garden tables set on the cliffs. Guests on half-board packages dine at the Rose Garden restaurant where buffets follow a daily theme such as 'Italian Romance' and a plentiful breakfast is also served.

Il Gallo d'Oro: two Michelin stars. Set and tasting menus. Open Tues-Sat for dinner.

Avista: Mediterranean cuisine. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Mains from €18.50.