Photography: Hotel Baia Azul
Hotel Baia Azul
Reviewed by Joeri Van Overloop
Set the scene
Within the sprawling, modern and bright lobby of Hotel Baia Azul, you're greeted with an impressive blend of local Madeiran style and contemporary elegance. Plush, neutral-toned furnishings invite you to relax after a day of exploration, while strategically placed artwork and decor honor the native culture and landscape. The large, captivating windows showcase panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, illuminating the space with vibrant shades of blue and instilling a profound sense of tranquility that is so very characteristic of Madeira.
As you delve further into the hotel, you discover a variety of inviting spaces that encapsulate the exquisite ambience of the property. Gardens brimming with brilliantly colored flowers and exotic plants induce a heightened sense of serenity. The scene within the hotel is a harmonious mix of modern amenities and unparalleled natural beauty, aimed at creating a unique, unforgettable stay in the heart of Madeira.
What can we expect in our room at Hotel Baia Azul
All guest rooms, decked out in a calming palette of light blues and greens, emanate a sense of tranquility that expertly mirrors the surrounding sea-scape of Madeira. Each abode is generously sized and furnished in a contemporary style with a discerning eye towards function and comfort. Carefully considered details such as calming artworks, fluffy pillows, and luxurious linens all contribute to creating a restful haven.
Featuring essential modern conveniences, rooms at the Baia Azul are perfectly equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi, a sleek flat-screen TV, and thoughtful amenities such as an electric kettle and a minibar. The bath facilities, boasting a wonderful rain shower and vessel sink complemented by a selection of eco-friendly toiletries, provide an end-of-day relaxation perfect for washing off the salt and sun of a day at the beach. Not to mention the spectacular balcony views, which offer an idyllic panorama of the Atlantic.
How about the food and drinks
The hotel comes with 3 restaurants called Ocean, Sal & Atlantic which serve Portuguese, Italian and international food. The main dining area, decked in warm hues, offers a well-crafted mix of local and international dishes - a gastronomical delight set against the stunning backdrop of Madeira’s coastline. The freshness of the local produce can be tasted in each bite, while the sea view from the expansive windows adds an extra element of charm to the dining experience.
For the ones seeking a refreshing pause, the hotel hosts a classic bar by the poolside. It offers a wide selection of wines, spirits, and classic cocktails, along with an appetizing snack menu that satiates your mid-day food cravings.
What is the service like
Greeted by a team of diligent, courteous and multilingual professionals at the reception, you immediately feel like an esteemed guest. Each employee at the hotel is seemingly imbued with an innate sense of hospitable charm and helpfulness. Be it requiring recommendations for local sightseeing or reservations at your favorite Madeira restaurant, if you needing urgent help, or dealing with trivial requests, they maintain an effortless balance between being responsive and respecting your privacy.
Not just the reception, the entire service portfolio of Hotel Baia Azul strives to deliver an environment of unrelenting comfort and luxury. The housekeeping team ensures rooms are kept impeccably clean, while the kitchen staff leave your palate enchanted with their culinary expertise. If you desire the true essence of Madeiran relaxation, the in-house spa experts are there to soothe your senses with a wide array of therapeutic treatments.
What’s the neighbourhood scene like at Hotel Baia Azul
Venture out, and you'll discover quaint, narrow streets lined with charming, colorful buildings and an array of fascinating shops. Cafes are scattered around, serving up the invigorating aroma of Portuguese coffee and delightful local pastries. Just a stone's throw away, the historic Mercado dos Lavradores offers you the opportunity to delve into Madeira's rich culture and pick up some handcrafted souvenirs.
If you're more inclined towards nature, the stunning coastline is practically on the hotel's doorstep. You can embrace the sea breeze upon your face as you stride along the promenade and inhale the mix of salty air and exotic, floral scents from the nearby Santa Catarina Park. More adventurous souls might opt for the water sports offered on the shore, like scuba-diving or yachting. Conveyor belts of golf courses are also close at hand for those who seek a round under the warm, Madeiran sun.
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What’s the backstory
The hotel was conceived in the late 1970s when Madeira started blossoming as a coveted tourist destination. The birth of this much-acclaimed hotel arose from the vision of an enterprising local, who perceived the untapped potential of Madeira's hospitality industry. His drive and forethought led to the creation of this stunning property, nestled snugly in the center of Madeira's captivating landscape.
Designed to complement the natural beauty surrounding it, Baia Azul quickly gained prominence, not just within Portugal but across Europe for its unique embodiment of Madeiran culture and hospitality. Over the years, the hotel has been regularly refurbished to maintain its charm and continue meeting the evolving expectations of global travelers.
Price Range
Room rates at the Baia Azul hotel show wide fluctuations depending on the season and specific room category, generally falling within a range of €70 to €150 per night. This includes the cost of the room and the fabulous breakfast buffet, but excludes other meals, drinks, and extras.
The hotel has a clear pricing structure so you can plan your stay to fit your budget. These rates can increase if you opt for their premium services or during the peak tourist season due to high demand. It’s also worth noting that the hotel often runs promotional packages and special deals to attract more tourists, thereby making a luxury vacation at Hotel Baia Azul more affordable for every pocket.
Amenities & Facilities
On first inspection, the outdoor facilities are bound to dazzle. Imagine taking a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool, enjoying a good read in the surrounding garden, or flexing your muscles at the fitness center. The latter boasts state-of-the-art gym equipment to keep gym enthusiasts engaged throughout their stay. The hotel's layout is geared to maximize stunning views, with many amenities, like the pool and wellness, offering panoramic glimpses of the Atlantic Ocean.
The indoor amenities are also nothing short of impressive, further echoing the hotel's commitment to providing premier service. Essential services like 24-hour front desk, room service, and laundry facilities ensure your stay is as smooth as possible. Further elevating your stay, Baia Azul offers a spa and wellness center, where therapists offer a diverse menu of treatments to melt away stress and rejuvenate your senses.
How to get to Hotel Baia Azul in Madeira
If you're in the mood for a scenic drive, the bus route is a convenient and affordable option. Climb aboard bus number 113, which can be picked up directly outside the arrivals terminal. After a ride of approximately 45 minutes, you will find yourself right in front of the Baia Azul hotel.
If a quicker transit is what you desire, a taxi should serve you well. Taxis are highly accessible and can be easily hailed from the rank located outside the Madeira airport arrivals terminal. In about 20 to 30 minutes, the beautiful facade of the Baia Azul will greet you.
Contact:
Address: R. da Quinta Calaça 1, 9004-530 Funchal, Portugal
Phone: +351 291 700 400
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Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed within this article are the author’s alone, not those of any travel/leisure company, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.