With trails to hike, whales and dolphins to watch, cable cars to ride, magical gardens to explore and endless white-sand beaches a ferry ride away, Madeira is a top choice for a family vacation. Enjoy it any time of year for its spring-time climate and brilliant flowers perennially in bloom.
Savoy Hotels make it easy with resorts that cater to every family travel style.
Royal Savoy Hotel
Set on its own ocean frontage, a short walk from the center of Funchal, Royal Savoy Hotel couldn’t be more convenient. Its swimming and splash pools stretch across a palm-shaded terrace with Atlantic surf rippling just below its walls, giving it the feel of a remote tropical beach resort. But in just a few minutes you can be boarding a Zodiac to look for sea life or the kids can sail on a replica of Columbus’s flagship, the Santa Maria. Or take an exciting sled ride down the city’s steep cobbled streets.
Savoy Calheta Beach
The all-inclusive Savoy Calheta Beach is outside the city of Funchal, about 45 minutes away in a small coastal village with its own protected beach. It is especially designed for families with meals, entertainment, a well-equipped play room and easy access to fishing and whale-watching excursions from Calheta’s harbor. Along with the sand beach, the resort offers outdoor and indoor swimming pools, and a terrace with lounge chairs and games.
All meals and even all-day snacks are included and unlimited. The buffet is so extensive, the most finicky child will find favorites. We especially like the variety that gave us a chance to sample several local specialties (kids will like the chance to try all the local pastries and tropical ice cream flavors). Hot dishes include grilled meats, seafood, combination dishes, pastas and stir-fries. A variety of cold dishes include green hearty salads, sliced meats and cheeses. Choices range from kid-friendly pizza and fried chicken to exotic local seafood prepared with tropical fruits. One entire section is meat free, and dishes are well labeled for ingredients.
The dining room atmosphere is casual, friendly and welcoming, so parents needn’t worry about children disturbing other diners (there’s a separate fine-dining restaurant for those guests who prefer an adult atmosphere and table service). Each evening there is entertainment by local performers, musicians and dance groups. One night on our stay, a folklore dance group performed and taught guests of all ages, who joined the dancing — a real hit for the kids.
Savoy Saccharum Resort & Spa
A third hotel, the Savoy Saccharum, is also in Calheta, a short walk away, but quite different in style. A 5-star resort with a full (and exceptional) spa, the property was designed in a stunning contemporary style by Nini Andrade Silva. From the dramatic soaring lobby to the serene guestrooms and suites with balconies overlooking the ocean, the entire property is fresh and inviting. While this resort is not as specifically designed for families as the neighboring sister hotel is, it is well suited for children, featuring a bright play room, a heated indoor pool and two outdoor swimming pools with large sun terraces. Dining options are flexible, with a buffet restaurant, an à la carte restaurant and terrace dining in the summer overlooking the infinity pool.
Although these properties appeal to different tastes and budgets, Savoy Hotels’ dedication to family travel is clear at each.
Read This Next
#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedMultigenerational
Apr 4, 20245 Eco-Friendly Properties to Stay at for Earth Month
Book family travel at one of these five eco-friendly properties around the world for Earth Month.
Sponsored Content
Interior Upgrades Begin Rolling Out Across United Fleet
United Airlines is in the midst of a major initiative to modernize its fleet over the next several years. After first announcing the plan in 2021, planes fitted with United’s signature interior are finally beginning to appear across the airline’s narrowbody fleet of Boeing and Airbus planes. United flyers are sure to notice these enhancements from the moment they step on board: Each new or updated plane sports remodeled seats, seatback entertainment screens for everyone, Bluetooth connectivity and more, all adding up to a better experience on every journey.
Multigenerational
Apr 2, 2024Princess Cruises Offers Accessible, Affordable Multigenerational Travel
According to a National Tourism Association study, multigenerational vacations continue to be a popular choice for family travel, with about half of all vacations taken by parents and grandparents considered multigenerational. Additionally, 45 percent of all leisure travelers brought kids on their trips last year.
Multigenerational
Mar 28, 2024Unforgettable Family Adventures Await at These 4 Multigenerational Destinations
The best type of family travel is when the whole family gets involved. For your next family trip, consider these multigenerational destinations and resorts.
Sponsored Content
Travel Tips to Help Protect Your Health and Your Trip
Five Tips to Help Minimize Potential Travel Problems
North America
Mar 26, 2024Don’t Miss Grande Lakes Orlando’s Modern Willy Wonka Golden Ticket Experience
If you hear the phrase “golden ticket,” you’re apt to think of Willy Wonka and the popular films to have come from the franchise. But did you know Grande Lakes Orlando takes the golden ticket concept one step further? This spring, the popular resort pays homage to the classic film and recent movie Wonka with a one-of-a-kind Golden Ticket Experience.
ShareThis