Pestana Carlton Madeira Hotel in Funchal, Portugal

A large modern hotel set on the cliffs along Funchal's coastline, the Pestana Carlton Madeira offers impressive views of the town has direct access to the beach via its palm filled, tropical gardens. The 330 air conditioned guestrooms feature light, contemporary decor and all have balconies with views of the sea, pool or mountains. Each room comes with satellite television, direct dial telephone and dial up Internet connection and a minibar.
The six restaurants offer a range of options to suit all tastes, from buffet meals and snacks to fine dining and outdoor barbeques, with live music and entertainment on offer at the pub and the poolside bar. Guests can lounge beside a choice of two outdoor swimming pools; one at ocean level with direct access to the beach and a heated pool surrounded by terraces flanked by palm trees. Younger guests are kept busy in the children's play area and can splash in their own separate swimming pool; the whole family can enjoy mini golf and giant chess in the hotel's gardens, tennis on the floodlit court and ping pong in the games room. The health and fitness centre incorporates an indoor lap pool as well as a gym, sauna, solarium and steam room. A range of beauty treatments and therapeutic massages are available on request. The more adventurous can sign up for lessons at the diving school or join organised island excursions and Levada walks. There is Internet access in the lobby (fee) for those wishing to check their mails. Room service is available around the clock. Those wishing to explore the town can stroll into central Funchal, one kilometre away, and visit the Botanic gardens. The yacht harbour is within two kilometres and the nearest golf course is Palheiro, less than five kilometres away. Golfers can book sessions though the hotel, which also offers a shuttle service to the green. Madeira airport is 20 kilometres and about a 15 minute drive away.