Quinta da Casa Branca is the stay that best captures the Madeiran quinta, the country estate with a manor house and gardens that wealthy families built on the hills above Funchal. It sits on Rua da Casa Branca on the western side of the city, on an estate of more than twenty-eight thousand square metres that is part botanical garden and part working farm, with tropical and subtropical trees from around the world and its own banana plantation. The rooms are in contemporary low buildings set into the garden, and all forty-three have a private terrace, with some on the ground floor opening straight onto the lawns. A swimming pool lies beside the estate’s nineteenth-century villa, and dining is split between the relaxed Casa da Quinta Restaurant and Bar and the more formal Dining Room. It is rated five stars, belongs to Small Luxury Hotels of the World and feels calm and private, a garden retreat that is still within reach of the city.
Location and getting around: the quinta is in the residential hills west of the centre, above the hotel zone of Estrada Monumental and the Lido. The seafront promenade, the Lido bathing complex and plenty of restaurants are within walking distance downhill, and the old town is a short taxi ride or a longer walk along the seafront. Taxis are easy to call from reception, and local buses run along the main roads below. For island excursions, many tour operators pick up in this area, and the meeting point for the jeep tours on Estrada Monumental is close by.
The rooms: modern, light and uncluttered, with natural materials, large windows and terraces facing the garden. Ground-floor garden rooms suit those who like to step straight outside; upper rooms catch more of the view. Ask for a quiet garden-facing room away from the entrance if you are a light sleeper.
Who it suits: couples, garden lovers and travellers who want a peaceful, design-minded base with space to relax between excursions. It is a good choice for longer stays and for a winter escape.
Good to know: breakfast is a highlight, served with views of the garden. The walk back up from the seafront is steep, so many guests take a taxi in the evenings. Check what is included in your rate and ask about parking if you are hiring a car.
Why stay here
- ✓Private terrace in every room
- ✓Botanical garden estate
- ✓Outdoor swimming pool
- ✓Casa da Quinta Restaurant and Bar
- ✓The Dining Room restaurant
- ✓Ground-floor garden rooms
- ✓Small Luxury Hotels of the World member
- ✓Walk to the Lido and seafront
Good questions
Where is Quinta da Casa Branca?+
It is at Rua da Casa Branca 7, in the hills west of central Funchal above the hotel zone. The seafront promenade and the Lido are within walking distance.
Do all rooms at Quinta da Casa Branca have a terrace?+
Yes, all forty-three rooms have a private terrace. Some ground-floor rooms open directly onto the garden.
Is Quinta da Casa Branca good for couples?+
Very. The quiet garden setting, the pool and the two restaurants make it one of the most romantic bases in Funchal.
