Castanheiro Boutique Hotel
Traditional charm across restored Madeiran townhouses Rooftop heated pool and whirlpool with Atlantic views Relaxed, boutique atmosphere in Funchal’s old quarter Stunning city, mountain and ocean panoramas from the roof terrace Certified Sustainable Hotel (GSTC-recognised standard) Free Wi-Fi throughout
Overview
Tucked between cobbled lanes in Funchal’s historic quarter, Castanheiro Boutique Hotel strings together a row of lovingly restored townhouses to create a one-off stay full of character. Expect colourful rooms with Madeiran touches, a rooftop infinity-style pool gazing out over terracotta rooftops to the Atlantic, and a soothing spa for Turkish baths and whirlpools after a day exploring the island. With the marina, Old Town and cable car all an easy stroll away, this is a superb base for a stylish Madeira city-and-sea escape.
Gallery
17 photos
Map & location
Funchal, Madeira, Portugal
Right in the heart of Funchal’s historic centre, Castanheiro Boutique Hotel is surrounded by cobbled streets, churches and traditional townhouses. Step outside and you’re moments from pavement cafés, wine bars and viewpoints, while the waterfront promenade and Funchal Marina are just a short downhill stroll away. The famous cable car to Monte, colourful Mercado dos Lavradores and several of the island’s lush gardens are all easily reached, making this a superb base for exploring without needing a car.
- Funchal resort centre in the heart of the centre
- Funchal Marina 500m
- Madeira Botanical Gardens 5km
- Lido complex & coastal promenade short taxi ride or 25–30 minutes’ walk
- Local shops, cafés and restaurants all around the hotel
- Approx. transfer time from airport 50 minutes
Facilities
Pool & outdoors
Castanheiro Boutique Hotel isn’t on the beach, but the rooftop pool more than compensates with its cinematic city-meets-ocean views.
Outdoor rooftop pool
A freshwater pool with infinity-style edge and adjoining whirlpool sits on the roof terrace, surrounded by sunbeds and parasols. It’s heated from roughly November to May, so you can still swim with a backdrop of blue even in the cooler months. Complimentary pool towels are provided.
Indoor pool
The spa area includes a heated indoor pool with whirlpool – perfect if the weather turns or you prefer a quieter swim. There is typically a small local charge for using the indoor pool, though guests usually receive one complimentary entrance per stay.
Madeira’s famous lido complexes and pebble-and-black-sand beaches, including Praia Formosa, are a short taxi ride away for sea swimming and coastal walks.
Spa, sports & wellness
Spa & wellness
The hotel spa is a tranquil space with:
• Sauna and Turkish bath
• Indoor heated pool with whirlpool
• Massages and beauty treatments*
• Relaxation areas
The spa is generally open 10:00–19:00 (from the afternoon at weekends). Minimum age for spa areas is 7 years, with treatments typically for older children and adults. Local charges apply for treatments and some facilities.
Gym & fitness
• Air-conditioned gym with cardio equipment and free weights (minimum age 12 years)
Ideal for a quick workout before breakfast or a stretch after exploring Funchal’s hills.
Evening ambience
Regular live music and low-key evening entertainment run throughout the year (programme varies), giving the hotel a relaxed, grown-up buzz without it ever feeling loud or intrusive.
Other facilities
• 24-hour reception and concierge service
• Luggage storage
• Equipment for hire including fan, kettle, toaster, pushchair*, wheelchair* and mobility scooter*
• Certified Sustainable Hotel status, working to a GSTC-recognised standard
*Charges apply for selected items.
Activities
? Air-conditioned gym with cardio and free weights (min age 12 years)
? Rooftop pool and sun deck for relaxed swims and sunbathing
? Regular evening entertainment with live music (year-round, programme varies)
? Spa experiences including Turkish bath, sauna and whirlpool (charges apply)
? Easy strolls to Funchal’s marina, lidos, gardens and Old Town sights
? Nearby wine bars and restaurants for independent evenings out
Guest services
?️ 24-hour reception and concierge for excursions and local tips
? Luggage storage for early arrivals/late departures
??? Family-friendly services including highchairs and kids’ menu in the restaurant
? Equipment hire including fan, kettle, toaster, pushchair*, wheelchair* and mobility scooter*
? Spa with massages, beauty treatments and on-site hairdresser*
? Free Wi‑Fi throughout the hotel
*Local charges apply for selected services and equipment.
Food & drink
The hotel keeps things intimate with one main restaurant and two atmospheric bars, each channelling Funchal’s café-culture charm.
Tipografia Restaurant
The main à la carte restaurant serves a creative mix of international, Italian and Madeiran dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Expect fresh Atlantic fish, local beef, island-grown produce and excellent Portuguese wines. Highchairs and a children’s menu are available. A smart-casual dress code applies in the evening (no beachwear; long trousers requested for gentlemen).
Iris Coffee, Tea & Cocktail Bar
A cosy lobby-level lounge bar ideal for a pre-dinner aperitif or nightcap. Sip speciality coffees, loose-leaf teas and well-mixed cocktails while soaking up the heritage house setting.
Pretas Deck & Lounge Bar
Up on the roof terrace, this relaxed pool bar serves light bites and drinks with a view. It’s the go-to spot for a lazy lunch between swims or a late-afternoon glass of vinho as the city lights begin to sparkle.
Please note: smart dress codes may apply; openings can vary seasonally. Reservations may be required and some items or venues may carry a supplement depending on your board basis.
Rooms
Deluxe Studio with Kitchenette and Balcony
Sleeps: minimum 2, maximum 2
Adds a private balcony to the studio layout, perfect for a quiet coffee or evening glass of wine.
Includes all Junior Studio amenities plus balcony.
Standard Twin Room
Sleeps: minimum 2, maximum 2
Comfortable twin room for two with stylish décor and thoughtful touches.
Facilities: flat-screen TV, free Wi‑Fi, safety deposit box, bathrobe and slippers, hairdryer, pillow menu, coffee-making facilities, kettle, minibar*, bathroom with shower, air conditioning (seasonal, approx. April–October), daily cleaning, linen and towel changes on request.
Standard Room for Sole Use
Sleeps: minimum 1, maximum 1
A cosy base for solo travellers, with the same high-quality finishes and facilities as the Standard Twin Room, tailored to one guest.
Deluxe Twin Room with Balcony
Sleeps: minimum 2, maximum 2
Upgraded twin room with balcony for those who value a bit of outdoor space.
Facilities as Standard Twin, plus balcony (air conditioning seasonal, approx. April–October).
Deluxe Twin Room with Balcony for Sole Use
Sleeps: minimum 1, maximum 1
All the benefits of the Deluxe Twin with Balcony, just for one guest – perfect for solo city breaks.
Junior Suite
Sleeps: minimum 2, maximum 3
More generous in size with a defined seating area, curated design details and extra comfort.
Facilities: flat-screen TV, free Wi‑Fi, safety deposit box, bathrobe and slippers, hairdryer, pillow menu, coffee-making facilities, kettle, minibar*, bathroom with shower, air conditioning, daily cleaning, linen and towel changes on request.
Suite
Sleeps: minimum 2, maximum 4
The most spacious option, ideal for families or friends travelling together. Expect a separate living space and, in many suites, Juliet/French balconies to let the Funchal atmosphere drift in.
Facilities: flat-screen TV, free Wi‑Fi, safety deposit box, bathrobe and slippers, hairdryer, pillow menu, coffee-making facilities, kettle, minibar*, Juliet/French balcony (in many suites), bathroom with shower, air conditioning, daily cleaning, linen and towel changes on request.
*Local charges apply for items marked with an asterisk. Bed configurations, views and layout can vary by room and building.
*Images indicative; layouts/views may vary.
More info
Funchal is Madeira’s charming capital, known for its botanical gardens, cable car rides to Monte, black-sand and pebble beaches and laid-back café culture. Currency is the Euro (€), language is Portuguese, and there is no time difference with the UK. Flights from the UK take around 4 hours, and the transfer from the airport to Castanheiro Boutique Hotel is about 50 minutes by road.
This property is recognised as a Certified Sustainable Hotel, meeting a GSTC-recognised standard at the time of review. Facilities, entertainment and opening hours can change seasonally or at short notice.
For entry rules and health guidance see the UK FCDO Portugal advice.
Prices & book
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Live availability and real-time offers. Low deposits, full ATOL protection.