Quintinha de Sao Joao

Quintinha_de_Sao_Joao
Quintinha de Sao Joao

Quintinha de Sao Joao

Traditional quinta manor with 18th‑century charm Intimate, small and friendly – ideal for couples Exceptionally personal, attentive service Lush subtropical gardens and tranquil pool terraces Gala meals included on key festive dates (seasonal) Free Wi-Fi throughout

Official rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rooms 42 | Floors: 5 | Lifts: 1
Board options Bed & Breakfast, Half Board
Child age guideline up to 12 years

Overview

 
Tucked away on the hillside above Funchal, Quintinha de Sao Joao is a beautifully restored 18th‑century quinta wrapped in subtropical gardens. With just 42 rooms, a serene spa, indoor and outdoor pools and exceptionally warm service, this boutique hideaway feels like staying in a private Madeiran manor – perfect for couples who want heritage character within easy reach of the capital’s restaurants, lidos and harbourfront.

A classic Madeiran quinta brought gently up to date, Quintinha de Sao Joao mixes old‑world charm – polished wood, antiques and shaded verandas – with resort comforts including a heated indoor pool, tranquil spa and leafy outdoor pool terrace. You’re close enough to stroll into Funchal, yet cocooned in gardens scented with jasmine and bougainvillea. For couples seeking Madeira’s charm with a peaceful, characterful base, Quintinha de Sao Joao delivers the perfect balance. It’s approximately 50 minutes from FNC airport by road, with complimentary hotel shuttle into Funchal on selected days. See more Madeira holidays.

Map & location


Funchal, Madeira, Portugal

Set slightly above Funchal in a leafy residential area, Quintinha de Sao Joao feels wonderfully tucked away yet keeps the city on your doorstep. Wander 500m to local cafés, bars and mini‑markets, or head 1.5km downhill into the historic centre for cobbled lanes, botanical gardens and the harbour promenade. The famous Lido complex and coastal walkway are around 2.5km away, and a complimentary hotel shuttle operates to Funchal five days per week.
  • shops, bars & restaurants 500m
  • Funchal resort centre 1.5km
  • Lido bathing area & promenade 2.5km
  • Complimentary hotel bus to Funchal 5 days per week
  • Approx. transfer time from airport 50 minutes

Facilities

Pool & outdoors


The quinta’s outdoor freshwater pool is framed by mature trees, terracotta tiles and cushioned loungers, creating a sheltered, sun‑dappled spot to unwind with a book. There’s also a heated outdoor freshwater pool section and a peaceful sunbathing area with sunbeds, hammocks and parasols, plus complimentary pool towels.

On the roof terrace you’ll find a heated indoor freshwater pool – ideal for cooler days or a quiet swim after exploring Funchal. Madeira is more about dramatic coastline and lidos than long sandy beaches; the seafront bathing complexes and Praia Formosa’s pebbly bays are a quick taxi or local bus ride away.

Spa, sports & wellness


Wellness facilities include a small yet well‑equipped gym with cardio machines, free weights and a stretching area (typically open 07:00–20:00 for guests 16+). The intimate spa offers a sauna, steam room and whirlpool alongside a choice of massages and beauty treatments (local charges apply; 16+).

For leisurely evenings there’s a games room with pool table, table tennis, chess and draughts, plus regular low‑key entertainment such as live music in the piano bar throughout the year. The hotel’s lush gardens, quiet lounges and terraces complete the picture for a slow, restorative stay.

Activities


? Gym with cardio equipment, free weights & stretching zone (16+)
? Games room with pool table, table tennis, chess & draughts
? Regular evening entertainment including live music in the piano bar (year‑round, programme may vary)
? Relaxation in subtropical gardens and on shaded terraces
⛳ Reduced green fees at Santo da Serra & Palheiro golf courses when booked via the hotel (subject to change)

Guest services


?️ 24‑hour reception & concierge
? Luggage storage
? English newspapers (local charge)
? Complimentary shuttle bus to Funchal (5 days per week, schedule subject to change)
♿ Motorised scooter & wheelchair hire, plus charging points (local charge)
? Spa with sauna, steam room, whirlpool, massages & beauty treatments (16+, charges apply)
? Daily housekeeping with towel changes on request
? Certified Sustainable Hotel initiatives supporting eco‑friendly stays

Food & drink

Start the day with a generous buffet and cooked‑to‑order dishes in A Morgadinha, the hotel’s main restaurant, which focuses on classic Madeiran and international flavours in a warmly traditional setting. In the evening it serves an à la carte and table d’hôte menu, with Half Board guests typically dining here.

The poolside Bar da Piscina serves drinks and light snacks during the warmer months, perfect for lazy afternoons by the water. As the sun goes down, the Vasco da Gama Bar & Terrace becomes the social heart of the hotel, with a piano bar atmosphere, cosy nooks and occasional live music that pairs beautifully with a poncha or Madeira wine.

Please note a smart casual dress code may apply at dinner, and restaurant opening times, supplements and reservation requirements can vary by season and board basis.

Rooms
Standard Twin Room with Balcony


Sleeps: minimum 2, maximum 3
As Standard Twin but with a balcony or terrace offering extra space to enjoy the garden or town views. Facilities include TV, Wi‑Fi, air‑conditioning, kettle, bathrobes, hairdryer, minibar (charge), safe and bath with shower attachment.

Standard Twin Room for Sole Use


Sleeps: minimum 1, maximum 1
Ideal for solo travellers wanting space and comfort. Facilities mirror the Standard Twin, with turndown service and air‑conditioning as standard.

Standard Twin Room with Balcony for Sole Use


Sleeps: minimum 1, maximum 1
Single occupancy of a balcony room, giving solo guests a pleasant outdoor area along with the full list of amenities.

Junior Suite with Balcony


Sleeps: minimum 2, maximum 3
More spacious accommodation with a sitting area and balcony or terrace. Bathrooms feature both a bath and separate shower. In‑room amenities include flat‑screen TV, Wi‑Fi, air‑conditioning, kettle, turndown service, bathrobes, hairdryer, minibar (charge), safe and daily cleaning.

Junior Suite with Balcony for Sole Use


Sleeps: minimum 1, maximum 1
All the extra space of a Junior Suite with the comfort of sole occupancy – perfect for longer stays or solo guests who like to spread out.

Suite with Balcony


Sleeps: minimum 2, maximum 3
Suites provide a separate living/sleeping feel and a balcony or terrace, ideal if you enjoy in‑room relaxation. Facilities include TV, Wi‑Fi, air‑conditioning, kettle, turndown service, bathrobes, hairdryer, minibar (charge), safe and bathroom with bath and shower attachment. Daily cleaning and linen changes, with towel change on request.

Suite with Balcony for Sole Use


Sleeps: minimum 1, maximum 1
A generous option for solo guests looking for full suite comfort and a private balcony or terrace, plus the same amenities as Suites.

*Images indicative; layouts/views may vary.

More info

Practical information for stays at Quintinha de Sao Joao, Funchal
• Location: Funchal, Madeira, Portugal
• Flight time from UK: around 4 hours (direct)
• Transfer time: approx. 50 minutes by road
• Time difference: usually same as UK (GMT; no time difference for most of the year)
• Currency: Euro (€)
• Language: Portuguese (English widely spoken in tourist areas)

Dress is generally smart‑casual in the evenings, especially in A Morgadinha restaurant. As a small, traditional quinta, the atmosphere is relaxed and refined rather than resort‑style. Information, opening times and services may change seasonally or without notice.

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
What type of hotel is Quintinha de Sao Joao?
Quintinha de Sao Joao is a traditional Madeiran quinta – a historic manor or country house converted into an intimate boutique hotel. With just 42 rooms, mature gardens and period features, it feels more like a private residence than a large resort, offering a relaxed, homely atmosphere and very personal service.
Is Quintinha de Sao Joao suitable for families or better for couples?
Children are welcome (child age guideline up to 12 years), but the hotel’s ambience, facilities and entertainment are geared more towards adults and couples who value peace, classic décor and good food rather than kids’ clubs or large entertainment programmes. It’s particularly popular with couples, solo travellers and friends looking for a quiet base close to Funchal.
What board basis can I book at Quintinha de Sao Joao?
Stays at Quintinha de Sao Joao are usually on Bed & Breakfast, with the option to upgrade to Half Board. Breakfast is served in A Morgadinha, and Half Board guests typically dine there in the evening from a table d’hôte menu. Drinks are not generally included with Half Board unless stated on your booking confirmation.
Does Quintinha de Sao Joao have a pool and spa?
Yes. Outside there is a charming freshwater pool with sunbathing area, hammocks and parasols, plus a heated section. On the roof terrace you’ll find a heated indoor pool. The spa area includes a sauna, steam room and whirlpool, along with a menu of payable massages and beauty treatments for guests aged 16 and over.
How do I get from the hotel into Funchal centre?
You can walk downhill into Funchal in around 20–25 minutes depending on your pace, or take a short taxi ride. Quintinha de Sao Joao also operates a complimentary shuttle bus to and from Funchal five days a week (subject to schedule changes), which is convenient if you prefer not to walk back up the hill.
Are there any special offers or extras at Quintinha de Sao Joao?
Subject to season and availability, honeymooners staying a minimum of seven nights may receive a welcome bottle of sparkling wine and a tropical fruit basket on arrival, and golfers can usually benefit from around 10% discount on green fees at Santo da Serra and Palheiro courses when arranging rounds through the hotel. Offers can change, so ask your Travelisto consultant for the latest details.
Is Wi‑Fi included at Quintinha de Sao Joao?
Yes, complimentary Wi‑Fi is available throughout the hotel, including most public areas and guest rooms, so you can stay connected, stream or work if needed.