The Cliff Bay (PortoBay)

The jewel in the crown of PortoBay Hotels & Resorts, The Cliff Bay sits on a natural promontory above the bay of Funchal, reached through subtropical gardens that terrace down to a private bathing platform in the ocean.

Highlights of the stay:

• Il Gallo d'Oro: Two Michelin stars, a Michelin Green Star and a Michelin-awarded sommelier — Iberia's table for Madeira.
• Ocean spa: Eight treatment rooms, Turkish steam bath, jacuzzi, sauna and relaxation rooms.
• Sea-level pool deck: Outdoor saltwater pool at sea level, heated indoor/outdoor pool and a private bathing platform in the ocean.

Rooms face the gardens, the bay or the open Atlantic; dining beyond Il Gallo d'Oro runs from the Rose Garden buffets to the Blue Lagoon pool restaurant and Avista Ásia. For many guests this is the island's perfect balance — grand-hotel service, an edible destination, and the sea a staircase away.