Pestana Miramar Garden & Ocean Hotel

"We stayed at the Pestana Miramar half board for two weeks at the end of January and the beginning of February 2026. The hotel is in a lovely old building with plenty of trees and greenery around it and we found the location to be perfect for us (close enough to Funchal to walk in but not too close to be noisy). The staff that we dealt with were all very helpful and friendly and the available facilities were good. The meals were in buffet form and there did seem to be a bit of repetition with regards to the vegetables and salads (although we recognise that it’s not easy to cater for such large numbers of people). We did find the room to be rather tired, with cupboard doors loose and mould in the bathroom, although when we raised the mould with housekeeping they did clean it straight away). We have heard that the hotel is due to be refurbished imminently so expect the rooms to be much better afterwards. We did enjoy our holiday and wouldn’t hesitate to stay again (after the refurb)"

"First, the few downsides: the furniture in the room is perfectly serviceable, but I can see why some reviewers think it's past its best (just don't expect quite the standard - and a bit soulless - furnishings); and I did need to speak to reception about a minor fault in the bathroom, which was sorted out within a few hours. I also mentioned that the fan in the bathroom didn't seem to work, and that wasn't sorted out, though I can see it may well have been a bigger job. On the other hand, it's a really very friendly hotel; special mention must go to Claudia and the team in the Miramar restaurant, and Hasan in the cocktail bar, who really made me feel welcome and at home. Other staff were helpful but never obtrusive - just there when you wanted them. On half board there was the option to eat at the three restaurants at the Pestana Grand - 25 minutes walk or a five minute €2 bus ride away - which all provided good food and service as well. I didn't even try the buffet evening meal as the restaurants were welcoming; the booking system in reception for the restaurants did seem a little restrictive though. The pools and other facilities were clean and in good order. It's again a 25 minute walk or €2 bus ride to the centre of Funchal. Walking straight down the road takes you to the cathedral area; if you follow what initially seems to be a side road on the right just after crossing the bridge a steady hill down takes you to the harbour area instead. Visits to the palace gardens at Monte, a walk on a Levada, a whale/dolphin boat trip, and time spent just wandering round Funchal were all enjoyable."

"Lots to love about Pestana Miramar, and why I return again and again. The location is perfect for walking into the centre, but it’s the wonderful peace and welcoming atmosphere that makes it a little bit of island paradise. This year in particular I have enjoyed the range of fitness and activities on offer. It is so much fun to enjoy the energy of Aquagym, the morning Pilates and Yoga in the gardens under the palm trees to set you up for a perfect day. It is like a spa break too. I have felt welcome to enjoy all the program on offer. Abdel and the salsa dancing has been a particular joy to experience. 5 stars!!"