William Reid, a Scottish entrepreneur who arrived in Madeira in 1836, conceived the hotel as a luxury destination. Construction began in 1887 and it opened as The New Hotel in 1891, though he died before it was finished. The building was designed as a hotel from the start. The gardens hold subtropical species and flora, and steps lead from them to the Atlantic.
Rooms and suites have high ceilings and traditional Madeiran decor, and many have a balcony or patio with views of the ocean, Funchal Bay or the gardens. Junior Suites each have a balcony, with sea views in most and garden views in some. Funchal's centre is a short walk or taxi ride away.
William Restaurant, named for the founder, holds one Michelin star and cooks the produce of Madeira with panoramic views of the coast, and sommelier Alberto Luz chooses the wines. Ristorante Villa Cipriani serves Italian dishes on its terrace, Chef Zélia Santos works with Portuguese cooking and a Mediterranean influence, and afternoon tea overlooking the ocean is a long-standing tradition. A bar, a gelateria from Portofino and breakfast by the heated pool complete the table.
The three pools are freshwater, saltwater and a natural sea pool, and there is a children's pool and the Fun@Reid's kids' club. The Maré Spa uses native botanicals, and a gym has views over the water. The concierge arranges levada walks, golf and boat trips.
It suits travellers who want a historic seaside hotel on Madeira with gardens and direct access to the sea. Madeira Airport is a 25-minute drive away.
