History
We fall in love with this place every day.
For its colours, for its stories.
Quinta Bela Vista is more than just a hotel: it is the story of a family spanning generations, a refuge preserved with dedication and care. Since 1844, this property has been a place of meetings, memories, and transformations, always keeping its essence intact.
Madeira's Quintas
Madeira’s Quintas are much more than beautiful properties—they are living testaments to the island’s history and identity. Once family residences and agricultural estates, they have evolved over time into welcoming destinations without losing their original character. Surrounded by lush gardens and walls that hold centuries of memories, these quintas preserve architectural details that tell stories—sash windows, antique shutters, discreet chapels, and the charming Casinhas dos Prazeres, small garden retreats inviting contemplation. Today, they welcome those seeking authenticity, beauty, and a glimpse of the past, where every corner keeps Madeira’s essence alive.
Quinta da Bela Vista
Built by the ancestors of the current owners, the Quinta has passed through generations within the same lineage, witnessing changes without ever losing its soul. At the end of the 20th century, it was carefully restored, becoming an elegant five-star hotel where past and present meet in perfect harmony. Today, surrounded by lush gardens with stunning views over Funchal, Quinta Bela Vista remains a place of welcome and charm. A space where every detail tells a story and where every guest becomes part of this living heritage.
The Manor House
In 1989, the hotel was born here. Today, it hosts a Fine Dining restaurant, a Cocktail Bar, a library, and cosy sitting rooms—one with a fireplace. For those seeking a stay with soul, four Junior Suites within this house offer exclusivity and charm—a true journey through time.
Casinhas dos Prazeres
The Gardens of Quinta Bela Vista
Nature carefully tended and nature free in all its abundance: two spirits in harmony in Quinta Bela Vista’s gardens. Here, the landscape dialogues with time and history. These gardens guide visitors along paths lined with magnolias, jacarandas in bloom, and native Laurisilva vegetation. Lakes, fountains, and sculptures punctuate the route, while bougainvilleas and orchids add colour to the scenery.
Native Laurisilva Trees:
Laurel (Laurus novocanariensis): Evergreen tree of Macaronesia, with aromatic leaves.
Ocotea (Ocotea foetens): Endemic to Madeira, with glossy leaves and small flowers.
Persea (Persea indica): Medium-sized, edible fruits, and valuable wood.
Large Trees:
Magnolia (Magnolia sp.): Ornamental tree with large, fragrant flowers.
Kapok (Ceiba pentandra): Tropical species with a voluminous trunk and aerial roots.
Jacaranda (Jacaranda mimosifolia): Medium-sized, trumpet-shaped blue-lilac flowers.
English Oak (Quercus robur): European oak with strong wood.
Madeira Laurel (Morella faya): Endemic to Macaronesia, adaptable to various climates.
Fruit Trees:
Banana (Musa sp.): Perennial plant with banana bunches.
Mango (Mangifera indica): Tropical tree with juicy fruits.
Avocado (Persea americana): Fruit tree with healthy fats.
Custard Apple (Annona sp.): Tropical, with sweet and aromatic fruits.
Surinam Cherry (Eugenia uniflora): Small tree with aromatic, sweet fruits.
Lemon (Citrus limon): Citrus with a refreshing aroma.
Orange (Citrus sinensis): Juicy citrus fruit.
Ornamental and Aesthetic Trees:
Camphor Tree (Cinnamomum camphora): Aromatic with essential oil.
Dragon Tree (Dracaena draco): Slim, rosette foliage, branched trunk.
Flame of the Forest (Brownea grandiceps): Medium-sized, striking red inflorescences.
Chestnut (Castanea sativa): Large tree, known for its chestnuts.
Prickly Pear (Opuntia ficus-indica): Cactus with juicy fruits and paddle-shaped leaves.
Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica): Ornamental, pink, purple, or white flowers.
Holly (Ilex aquifolium): Evergreen with shiny red berries.
Tulip Tree (Liriodendron tulipifera): Ornamental, tulip-shaped flowers.
Illawarra Flame Tree (Brachychiton acerifolius): Ornamental, red flowers and abundant foliage.
Mimosa (Acacia dealbata): Yellow fragrant flowers and delicate leaves.
Weeping Willow (Salix babylonica): Drooping branches, often near water bodies.
Tropical and Exotic Plants:
Corinocarpus (Corinocarpus laevigatus): Perennial with spherical fruits.
Virginia Juniper (Juniperus virginiana): Shrub or tree with dark blue berries.
Papyrus (Cyperus alternifolius): Ornamental, fan-shaped leaves, and small flowers.
Kentia (Howea forsteriana): Ornamental palm with elegant leaves.
Plants with Distinct Aroma:
Canary Island Date Palm (Phoenix canariensis): Large, fan-shaped leaves, robust trunk.
Jacaranda (Jacaranda mimosifolia): Medium-sized, trumpet-shaped flowers.
Camphor Tree (Cinnamomum camphora): Aromatic leaves and essential oil.
Orange (Citrus sinensis): Juicy and aromatic.
Plants with Striking Inflorescences:
Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea sp.): Climber with colourful bracts.
Hydrangea (Hydrangea sp.): Globe-like flowers in blue, pink, or white.
Camellia (Camellia sp.): Shrub with large flowers.
Orchids (Orchidaceae): Complex and varied flowers, admired for beauty.
Our Awards
2023
Jet2Holidays Quality Award Winner British Airways Customer Excellence Award Winner TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice 2023 Nominated for World’s Leading Boutique Hotel 2023
2022
Jet2Holidays Luxe Collection – Quality Award Winner 2022 Nominated for World’s Leading Boutique Hotel 2022 Nominated for Europe’s Leading Boutique Hotel 2022
2021
Nominated for World’s Leading Boutique Hotel 2021 Nominated for Europe’s Leading Boutique Hotel 2021
2020
Nominated for World's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards Nominated for Europe's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards Nominated for Portugal's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards
2019
Customer Excellence Award by World Travel Awards Winner of Europe's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards Nominated for Portugal's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards TripAdvisor® - Certificate of Excellence - 2019 - Hall of Fame
2018
Winner of Portugal's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards British Airways Holidays - Customer Excellence Award 2018 Recommended on HolidayCheck 2018 TripAdvisor® - Certificate of Excellence - 2018 Guest Review Awards 2018! @Booking.com Luxury Travel Guide - Winner of Elegant Luxury Hotel of the year 2018 Nominated for Europe's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards
2017
Jet2holidays - Quality Award 2017 Winner TripAdvisor® - Certificate of Excellence - 2017 Luxury Travel Guide - Winner of Elegant Luxury Hotel of the year 2017 Luxury Travel Guide - Restaurant of the year 2017 Nominated for Europe's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards Nominated for Portugal's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards
2016
Schauinsland Reisen - Top Hotel Partner 2016 TripAdvisor® - Certificate of Excellence - 2016 Guest Review Awards 2016! @Booking.com Nominated for Europe's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards Nominated for Portugal's Leading Boutique Hotel by World
2015
Schauinsland Reisen - Top Hotel Partner 2015 TripAdvisor® - Certificate of Excellence - 2015 TripAdvisor® - Travellers' Choice® 2015 Winner - Best Service Nominated for Europe's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards Nominated for Portugal's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards
2014
TripAdvisor® - Certificate of Excellence - 2014 TripAdvisor® - Travellers' Choice® 2014 Winner - Top Hotels TripAdvisor® - Travellers' Choice® 2014 Winner - Romance TripAdvisor® - Travellers' Choice® 2014 Winner - Luxury Nominated for Europe's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards Nominated for Portugal's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards
2013
TripAdvisor® - Travellers' Choice® 2013 Winner - Best Service Venere Top Overall Ratings 2013 - Awarded by Venere.com Venere Top Clean 2013 - Awarded by Venere.com Nominated for Europe's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards Nominated for Portugal's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards
2012
Winner of "Certificate of Excellence" TripAdvisor® Nominated for Europe's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards Nominated for Portugal's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards
2011
Winner of "Certificate of Excellence" TripAdvisor Nominated for Europe's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards Nominated for Portugal's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards
2010
Nominated for Europe's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards Nominated for Portugal's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards
2009
5th Best Luxury Hotel, Europe by TripAdvisor® Travelers Choice Award 10th Best Luxury Hotel, World by TripAdvisor® Travelers Choice Award Nominated for World's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards Nominated for Europe's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards Nominated for Portugal's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards
2008
Winner of "Expedia Insider’s Select" by Expedia Travel Winner of Portugal's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards Nominated for World's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards Nominated for Europe's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards
2007
Winner of Europe's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards Winner of Portugal's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards Winner of "Most Excellent European Charming Hotel" by Condé Nast Johansens Nominated - World's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards
2006
Winner of Portugal's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards Nominated for Europe's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards Nominated for "Most Excellent Hotel Restaurant Europe" by Condé Nast Johansens
2005
Winner of Portugal's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards Nominated for Europe's Leading Boutique Hotel by World Travel Awards Sovereign Award for "Excellence for providing outstanding quality and service" by Sovereign customers
2004
Sovereign Award for "Excellence for providing outstanding quality and service" by Sovereign customers
2003
Sovereign Award for "Excellence for providing outstanding quality and service" by Sovereign customers
2002
Sovereign Award for "Excellence for providing outstanding quality and service" by Sovereign customers
2001
Winner "The Most Excellent European Waterside Hotel" by Condé Nast/Johansens
1998
Winner "The Best Countryside Hotel in Portugal" by The Magic Travel Group