Golden Residence

The resort's dramatic setting and stunning vistas is a magnet for couples seeking a quiet, romantic getaway. The hotel attracts some families, too, given its extensive amenities, and the space that apartment-style accommodations afford. Most days, guests can be found lounging around the delightful pool, which has a courtyard with an ivy-covered wall facing the ocean. Another favorite spot is the garden promenade -- a great place to watch the sunset -- with panoramic views of the ocean and distant cliffs. Guests also frequently head off on day trips to Funchal. Less time is spent in the resort's on-trend common areas, which include a chic restaurant and an airy lobby. 

Perched on the Ponta da Cruz with a backdrop of the steep cliffs of Cabo Girao, the hotel sits at the southernmost point of Madeira. This is a quiet, somewhat residential setting, and there are also a few restaurants and a shopping mall (Forum Madeira) within an eight-minute walk from the hotel. Funchal's historic center, with its pretty streets and numerous restaurants, bars, and cafes, is 15 minutes away by car. The hotel doesn't have direct access to Praia Formosa (Madeira's largest beach), and the hike is just beyond walking distance for most travelers. The beach is also accessible by local bus in about 15 minutes, or just under 10 minutes away by car. Madeira Airport is a 20- to 25-minute drive. 

Guest rooms are bright and comfortable, with details like tapered-leg tables, cane-backed armchairs, and single orchids that coordinate with throws making spaces feel elegant and pulled together. Furnished balconies with ocean or countryside views are a bonus. Units are also all equipped with flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, electric kettles, china cups and saucers, free Wi-Fi, and safes that are available for a fee, but beds are two twin-size mattresses pushed together. Bathrooms are basic and streamlined, with large walk-in showers and bidets, but they lack toiletries. Suites and Apartments add separate living rooms with sofas, and fully equipped kitchenettes with cooktops and microwaves. 

This resort boasts a solid lineup of amenities, and its rooftop terrace and garden promenade -- both with panoramic ocean views -- are its crowning jewel. The outdoor lap pool is a close second. It has a narrow, grassy area, as well as a concrete sundeck with loungers and umbrellas. The resort also has an indoor pool with an accessible ramp and a hot tub. No direct beach access is the hotel's main drawback in terms of features, and the property doesn't offer shuttle service into town. 

For dining, the buffet restaurant serves international cuisine and has an outdoor terrace. Breakfast is free, and all-inclusive rates are also available. An attached cocktail bar has two sections; a sunny lounge that opens to a deck with pool views, and a more casual (and less exciting) space off the lobby with a billiards table. There's and additional poolside bar at the far end of the property. 

Wellness amenities include a spa with several treatment rooms, a sauna, and a Turkish bath, plus a fitness center with free weights and a row of cardio machines. There's also a hair salon, a business center, and a small library, and Wi-Fi is free throughout.