Hotel Quinta do Serrado

Hotel Quinta do Serrado details

If you're after a peaceful retreat, the Quinta do Serrado showcases the best of Porto Santo’s rural side.

This place is the master of peaceful getaways. With the sea in the distance, it’s surrounded by the neighbouring Pico do Facho and Pico do Castelo hills, which means you’ve got prime walking territory on your doorstep. The hotel isn’t completely isolated, though. There’s a shuttle bus that’ll take you to the centre of town in about ten minutes. Plus, you can get to the beach in the same amount of time.

The property itself is traditional looking and built from local basaltica stone. It’s set in acres of gardens, complete with well-established trees and a criss-cross of cobbled pathways. And, because there are only 22 bedrooms here, the whole place has a really exclusive feel.

Talking of the rooms, they’re reminiscent of little cottages. Exposed ceiling beams, chunky pine furniture and fresh cream walls are the mainstays. And bright bed linen and stripy rugs add splashes of colour. But the star turn is your own balcony or veranda – they look right out over the surrounding valley.

Elsewhere, there’s a kidney-shaped pool set among all the greenery. And inside, you’ll find a small gym, a steam bath and a sauna.

Lastly, mealtimes here are all about home cooking. Expect a mix of classic Portuguese dishes like Cataplanas, a seafood casserole, and Feijoada – a hearty bean stew. And if you’re a grape-lover, you’re in luck – the lengthy wine list has been cherry-picked to complement the menu.