Casa Velha do Palheiro

Casa_Velha_do_Palheiro
Casa Velha do Palheiro

Casa Velha do Palheiro

Relais & Châteaux country house with heritage charm Set within Palheiro’s historic botanical gardens Individually designed rooms and suites across main house & garden wings On the edge of a championship 18-hole golf course with clubhouse Certified Sustainable Hotel using home-grown produce from its kitchen garden Free Wi-Fi throughout

Official rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rooms 38 | Blocks: 3 | Floors: 2 | Lifts: None
Board options Bed and Breakfast, Half Board
Child age guideline up to 12 years (no kids’ club; tranquil atmosphere)

Overview

 
Nestled in the lush hillsides above Funchal, Casa Velha do Palheiro is an intimate Relais & Châteaux country house hotel wrapped in centuries-old botanical gardens and overlooking a championship golf course. With just 38 individually designed rooms spread between a charming main house and garden wings, it blends old-world Madeiran elegance with thoughtful modern comforts, refined slow dining and restful pools, all within easy reach of the island’s capital.

Expect ivy-clad walls, polished antiques, deep sofas by open fires in winter and dappled garden terraces in summer. Casa Velha do Palheiro feels more like a private estate than a hotel, with fragrant camellia-lined paths, sweeping views towards Funchal bay and personalised service that makes this one of Madeira’s most characterful luxury hideaways. For couples and discerning travellers seeking Madeira’s garden-fringed charm, Casa Velha do Palheiro delivers a quietly luxurious escape. It’s around 30 minutes from Funchal Airport (FNC), with the city just a complimentary shuttle ride away. See more Madeira holidays.

Map & location


Funchal, Madeira, Portugal

Casa Velha do Palheiro sits in the Palheiro estate, high above Funchal in Madeira’s verdant hills. Here you’re surrounded by manicured lawns, ancient trees and famous camellia gardens, with distant views sweeping down to the Atlantic and the island’s capital below.

The setting feels deeply rural and secluded, yet you’re still close to Funchal’s cobbled streets, lidos and rooftop bars. A complimentary shuttle runs once per day to the city centre, while regular shuttles link you to the Palheiro Golf course and clubhouse, so you can flow easily between garden tranquillity, the fairways and evenings in town.

  • Small selection of bars & restaurants 4km
  • Funchal resort centre & marina 6km
  • Palheiro Golf clubhouse nearby, with shuttle service
  • Madeira lido area & coastal promenade 7–8km
  • Approx. transfer time from airport 30 minutes

Facilities

Pool & outdoors


While Casa Velha do Palheiro isn’t a beach hotel, it makes up for it with serene pool and spa spaces that mirror the gardens outside.

Outdoor Freshwater Pool – A peaceful, stone-edged pool set amid lawns and mature trees, with sunbeds and parasols on a dedicated sunbathing terrace. It’s perfect for a quiet swim, reading in the shade or unwinding after 18 holes. Complimentary pool towels are provided.

Indoor Pool & Whirlpool – Located within the spa centre, this heated indoor freshwater pool includes a whirlpool area, ideal for year-round relaxation, especially in the cooler months.

Facilities may vary by pool and season, and opening times can change depending on occupancy and weather. For sea swimming, Funchal’s famous lido complexes and Praia Formosa’s black-sand and pebble beaches are a short drive or taxi ride away.

Spa, sports & wellness


Casa Velha do Palheiro leans into wellness and the outdoors, with golf, spa time and gentle activities built into the estate experience.

Palheiro Golf – An 18-hole championship golf course with dramatic mountain-and-ocean views and its own clubhouse sits right on the estate. Tee times should be reserved in advance; a minimum age of 6 years typically applies for players. Green fees and equipment hire are at extra cost.

Gym & Wellness – A compact but well-equipped gym (usually open 08:00–19:00) features cardio machines, free weights, and a small wellness area with sauna and steam room.

Spa & Beauty – The spa offers sauna, steam room and a menu of massage and beauty treatments, generally available to guests aged 14+ with charges applying. Opening hours are typically 10:00–19:00 and can vary by season.

Leisure & Activities – Guests can enjoy badminton, snooker, table tennis and tennis (charges may apply), alongside yoga sessions and garden strolls. There’s no loud animation programme here – the focus is on calm, nature and slow days.

Other Facilities – Reception provides concierge services, currency exchange (local charge), luggage storage, and a shuttle bus into Funchal and to the golf course (subject to availability and schedule). Fans and kettles can be requested for hire if not already in your room.

Activities


⛳ Championship 18-hole golf course next door (Palheiro Golf, reservation required)
? Badminton, tennis* and table tennis
? Snooker and indoor games
? Yoga sessions* in tranquil garden surrounds
? Indoor pool with whirlpool and outdoor freshwater pool for gentle laps
? Strolls through Palheiro Gardens and surrounding walking trails

*Some activities and facilities may carry a local charge or require advance booking; availability can vary by season.

Guest services


?️ Reception and concierge for restaurant bookings, excursions and tee times
? Luggage storage for early arrivals or late departures
? Currency exchange services (local charges may apply)
? Complimentary shuttle bus to Funchal centre once per day
? Shuttle service to Palheiro Golf course throughout the day (subject to availability)
? USB charging points in selected room types
? Spa reception for treatment bookings (14+; charges apply)
?‍?‍? Highchairs available in the restaurant for younger guests

Services and schedules are subject to change and may vary depending on season and occupancy.

Food & drink

Dining at Casa Velha do Palheiro celebrates Madeira’s bounty, with much of the produce sourced from the hotel’s own kitchen garden and local suppliers.

Casa Velha do Palheiro Restaurant – An elegant à la carte restaurant serving refined international and Madeiran cuisine at breakfast and dinner. Expect seasonal menus, tasting-style presentation and attentive service in intimate dining rooms. Highchairs are available, and gentlemen are typically requested to wear long trousers in the evening.

Pool Bar – Open roughly between 10:00 and 18:00, this relaxed spot by the outdoor pool serves a selection of local and international drinks and light bites, ideal after a morning on the fairways or exploring the gardens.

Vista Balancal Bar – A cosy lounge bar, usually open from 09:00 until midnight, perfect for pre-dinner aperitifs, Madeira wine tastings or a nightcap by the fire or on the terrace, depending on the season.

Restaurant opening hours, dress codes, reservations and board inclusions can vary; some à la carte items and premium drinks may carry a supplement, especially on Bed and Breakfast. Information is based on the previous season and may change.

Rooms
Junior Suite Main House


Sleeps: minimum 2, maximum 3
Spacious suites set in the historic main house, with classic décor and a sitting area. Facilities include flat-screen TV, Wi‑Fi, safety deposit box, bathrobe and slippers, hairdryer, ironing board and iron, coffee-making facilities, kettle, turndown service, Juliet/French balcony, USB charging port, minibar (chargeable), and a bathroom with bath and separate shower. Air conditioning, daily cleaning and linen/towel changes on request.

Junior Suite Main House for Sole Use


Sleeps: minimum 1, maximum 1
All the character and features of the Junior Suite Main House, tailored for solo travellers seeking extra space and comfort, including Juliet balcony, separate bath and shower, and turndown service.

Senior Suite


Sleeps: minimum 2, maximum 2
Elegant suites with even more space and a touch of indulgence. Facilities include flat-screen TV, Wi‑Fi, safety deposit box, bathrobe and slippers, hairdryer, coffee-making facilities, kettle, USB charging port, minibar (chargeable), and a bathroom with whirlpool bath and shower. Air conditioning, daily cleaning and towel change on request.

Superior Golf Wing Room


Sleeps: minimum 2, maximum 2
Located in the Golf Wing, these rooms are ideal for golfers and those who prefer a more contemporary feel. Expect flat-screen TV, Wi‑Fi, safety deposit box, bathrobe and slippers, hairdryer, coffee-making facilities, kettle, turndown service, minibar (chargeable), bathroom with bath and separate shower, seasonal air conditioning (typically 01 May–31 Oct) and daily cleaning with towel change.

Superior Golf Wing Room for Sole Use


Sleeps: minimum 1, maximum 1
A comfortable option for solo guests who want to stay close to the course, with the same facilities as the Superior Golf Wing double rooms and seasonal air conditioning.

Standard Double Garden Wing Room


Sleeps: minimum 2, maximum 2
Set in the Garden Wing, these cosy rooms open onto the estate’s greenery. Facilities include flat-screen TV, Wi‑Fi, safety deposit box, bathrobe and slippers, hairdryer, turndown service, minibar (chargeable), bathroom with shower, seasonal air conditioning (01 May–31 Oct), daily cleaning and towel change.

Standard Double Garden Wing Room for Sole Use


Sleeps: minimum 1, maximum 1
All the essentials and charm of the Garden Wing rooms, ideal for solo travellers wanting a peaceful base amid the gardens.

Deluxe Room Main House


Sleeps: minimum 2, maximum 2
Refined rooms in the main house with period features and a more generous footprint than standard categories. Facilities include flat-screen TV, Wi‑Fi, safety deposit box, bathrobe and slippers, hairdryer, turndown service, minibar (chargeable), bathroom with shower, seasonal air conditioning (01 May–31 Oct), daily cleaning and towel change.

Deluxe Room Main House for Sole Use


Sleeps: minimum 1, maximum 1
A deluxe option in the main house crafted for solo guests, with the same charming décor and amenities as the double version.

*Images indicative; layouts/views may vary. Local charges may apply for some in-room services and minibars.

More info

Casa Velha do Palheiro offers a peaceful, country-estate take on Madeira, best suited to couples, solo travellers and relaxed families who value gardens, golf and slow travel over nightlife. The island’s climate is mild year-round, but evenings in the hills can feel cooler than by the coast, so packing layers is a good idea, especially outside summer.

Local essentials: Language – Portuguese. Currency – Euro (€). Time difference from the UK – usually the same (UTC+0). Approximate direct flight time from the UK to Madeira (FNC) – around 4 hours.

Hotel information, facilities and opening times are based on the previous season and may change. Some services are weather-dependent or may incur a local charge. For entry rules and health guidance see the UK FCDO Portugal advice.

Prices & book

Find your dates

Live availability and real-time offers. Low deposits, full ATOL protection.

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FAQs
Is Casa Velha do Palheiro a beach hotel?
No – Casa Velha do Palheiro is not on the beach. It is located in the hills above Funchal within the Palheiro Gardens estate. You’ll have access to an outdoor pool and an indoor spa pool on site, while Funchal’s lidos and Praia Formosa’s beaches are a short drive or taxi ride away.
How far is Casa Velha do Palheiro from Funchal centre?
Casa Velha do Palheiro is approximately 6km from Funchal resort centre. The hotel usually operates a complimentary shuttle bus into the city once per day, and taxis are readily available if you’d like more flexibility in your schedule.
What is the transfer time from Madeira Airport (FNC)?
The approximate transfer time from Madeira’s Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (FNC) to Casa Velha do Palheiro is around 30 minutes by road, depending on traffic and time of day. Private transfers can be quicker and more direct.
Is Casa Velha do Palheiro suitable for children?
Children are welcome, typically up to 12 years under the child age policy, and highchairs are available in the restaurant. However, there is no dedicated kids’ club or waterpark-style facilities, and the ambience is very tranquil, so it’s best suited to older, well-travelled children and families who enjoy gardens, nature and quiet time.
What spa facilities does Casa Velha do Palheiro have?
The spa includes an indoor heated pool with whirlpool, sauna, steam room and a range of massage and beauty treatments. Access is usually for guests aged 14 and over, with treatments at extra cost. Opening hours are typically 10:00–19:00 but can vary with season and occupancy.
Is Wi‑Fi available at Casa Velha do Palheiro?
Yes. Complimentary Wi‑Fi is available throughout the hotel, including guest rooms and most public areas, making it easy to keep in touch or plan your next day’s exploring.
Do I need to pre-book golf at Palheiro Golf?
Tee times at Palheiro Golf are subject to availability and should be reserved in advance, especially in peak months. Green fees, buggy hire and equipment rental are payable locally. The hotel can assist with reservations and transport via the regular shuttle service.
What is the dress code for dinner?
A smart dress code generally applies in the main restaurant in the evenings – typically smart-casual, with long trousers requested for gentlemen. This keeps the ambience in line with the property’s Relais & Châteaux country house feel.
Is Casa Velha do Palheiro accessible for guests with limited mobility?
Casa Velha do Palheiro is a historic property spread across several low-rise buildings with no lifts. While some rooms are on the ground floor, the gardens and older architecture may present challenges for those with significant mobility needs. If accessibility is important, please discuss specific requirements with a Travelisto Travel Designer before booking.