When, in 1888, William Reid chose the clifftop to build what, at the time, he christened Reid’s New Hotel, his knowledge of Madeira Island was already considerable. He had arrived years before, in 1836, on a ship from his native Scotland. The story goes that the 14-year-old only had five pounds in his pocket. He was one of 12 children of a farmer in Kimarnock. Due to his fragile health, he had been advised by a doctor to move to a warmer climate. After arriving in Funchal, he is known to have initially worked in a bakery and later made his fortune in the wine trade. Because of his business connections, Reid began to keep a closer eye on foreigners coming to the island. Like him, many sought out the island destination because they believed Madeira’s warm air had therapeutic benefits for those suffering from tuberculosis. In fact, in the 18th Century, the region was even recognised as one of the world’s famous destinations for «therapeutic tourism». The Madeirans got used to seeing «sufferers from tuberculosis» moor up on their coast. But not only these. The island also increasingly attracted «explorers» interested in the fauna and flora of the area. Whatever the case, Madeira was filling up with foreigners and Reid saw this as an opportunity to expand his business. This is why he bought the piece of land on the rocky outcrop where Belmond Reid’s Palace now stands. Unfortunately, the Scot did not live to see the completion of the hotel he envisioned. The first guests checked in in 1891.
The stunning views over the Atlantic Ocean are breath-taking
Over these last 130 years there have been many distinguished guests. George Bernard Shaw learned to tango there; Winston Churchill painted and wrote in his memoirs of Reid’s; «Sissi», the Empress of Austria, chose the Palace to rest and recover from her health problems. The hotel also became known for its legendary parties and for serving the traditional «five o’clock tea» on the terrace. A service that is still maintained today.
This luxury hideaway specialises in the art of pampering its guests, which has earned it the reputation as one of Funchal's finest hotels. Belmond Reid’s Palace has 158 rooms and suites, four restaurants (one of them, the William Restaurant, with a Michelin star), heated outdoor pools (one saltwater and one freshwater), spa and tennis court. Affords you the chance to descend to a platform that is at sea level and jump directly into the ocean, is surrounded by lush subtropical gardens and welcomes pets (with special conditions).
The stunning views over the Atlantic Ocean are breath-taking. This is a true private oasis. Chances are you won’t want to leave.
The stunning views over the Atlantic Ocean are breath-taking
Over these last 130 years there have been many distinguished guests. George Bernard Shaw learned to tango there; Winston Churchill painted and wrote in his memoirs of Reid’s; «Sissi», the Empress of Austria, chose the Palace to rest and recover from her health problems. The hotel also became known for its legendary parties and for serving the traditional «five o’clock tea» on the terrace. A service that is still maintained today.
This luxury hideaway specialises in the art of pampering its guests, which has earned it the reputation as one of Funchal's finest hotels. Belmond Reid’s Palace has 158 rooms and suites, four restaurants (one of them, the William Restaurant, with a Michelin star), heated outdoor pools (one saltwater and one freshwater), spa and tennis court. Affords you the chance to descend to a platform that is at sea level and jump directly into the ocean, is surrounded by lush subtropical gardens and welcomes pets (with special conditions).
The stunning views over the Atlantic Ocean are breath-taking. This is a true private oasis. Chances are you won’t want to leave.
