Pestana Vila Lido Madeira Ocean Hotel

Eccellente la posizione con accesso diretto per fare il bagno nell’Oceano. Tutti i servizi eccellenti.

This hotel advertises itself as five-star luxury, but our experience was shocking and deeply disappointing. Just four hours after check-in, we discovered a clear ant infestation in our suite. Dozens of tiny ants were seen moving rapidly across multiple areas – including floors and walls – and they became more active during the night. The nature of the infestation suggested a suspected Pharaoh ant colony, which are notoriously difficult to eradicate and often indicate a broader structural problem. We consulted multiple AI-based pest identification systems, and all confirmed the appearance and behavior were consistent with Pharaoh ants. However, the hotel denied that these were Pharaoh ants. Pharaoh ants are known for their high risk of spreading via travelers’ belongings, making this infestation especially concerning. Travelers should be warned about the potential for these pests to hitchhike in luggage and personal items, risking further spread to new locations. The hotel’s response was completely inadequate. At 9 PM, there was only one staff member available, who simply handed us an insect spray can – and expected us to handle the infestation ourselves. No one came to inspect the room that evening. The hotel promised to contact us within a week and had the opportunity to investigate the issue together with us, but they never reached out or followed up. The issue was downplayed, our concerns dismissed, and no serious action was taken. The hotel offered only a 50% refund for the first night – despite the unsanitary and unacceptable conditions. We immediately changed to a different hotel after the first night, unwilling to risk further exposure. After leaving, we had to treat all our luggage and clothes extensively (including using high heat) to prevent the risk of carrying ants back home. No guest should have to worry about pest contamination or decontaminating their belongings after staying at a so-called five-star hotel. Don’t be fooled by the hotel’s pretty words and promises — they simply don’t deliver. This hotel completely failed in hygiene, transparency, and responsibility. If you value basic cleanliness, competent service, or any level of professionalism, avoid Pestana Vila Lido.

We stayed 2weeks at the pestana members resort the room was nice and spacious and the walk in shower in the bathroom was lovely the kitchen had everything that we needed we didn’t cook so didn’t use the hob as we ate out every day . We had a nice holiday ,the only down point was we had paid to keep our room on till 4 pm 2 days before but at lunch time the maid was banging on the door wanting to come she didn’t understand English then reception was ringing telling us to leave after a visit to reception the guy apologised for the error but this shouldn’t have happened we were probably just unlucky but everything else was fine

Amazing hotel with a great location! Right on the water. Beautiful views and friendly helpful staff. We didn’t want to leave.

Visited with my elderly mother who has limited mobility, and this hotel was perfect for her. We were on a B&B basis, and the breakfast options were brilliant. Fresh, plentiful, with spotless tables which were quickly cleared. We made use of the supermarket, very close by, for snacks and drinks in the room and it was great to have a little fridge. The hotel location is perfect being close to restaurants, the Lido, and I had a pleasant walk into Funchal and back though there are regular buses and a taxi is about €8 each way. The hotel is very clean throughout, including the pool area where there were plenty of sunbeds. The pool was easy for mum to access for a dip, despite her mobility and being a non-swimmer. The room itself (we had a superior twin with sea view on floor 6) was spacious and clean with plenty of space for clothes, and very comfortable beds. We've already booked again for September and although we didn't use the hotel bar or restaurant for dinner on our June visit, we will do in September.

Fantastic location right by the ocean, with a pool and direct access to the sea (down some steps and straight into deep water). We came here for our first trip to Madeira with our 5 year old daughter, who was very sad to be leaving on our last day, as were we. We stayed in the duplex suite which is an amazing apartment in the grounds of the hotel, this suited us with the little one so she had her own space and we had a separate bedroom. The views of the ocean were 270 degrees as we were right on the rocks. The breakfast was very varied with lots of fresh fruits, breads, juices and hot items. We had the half board for 2 nights, which had a different theme every night and again lots of variety. As a coeliac I had plenty to choose from which can often be an issue with buffets! The area is safe, quiet, lots of hotels and restaurants nearby and there are 3/4 buses that take you into Funchal a short (uphill) walk away. We never had to wait for more than 5-10 mins. You can buy a multi trip card from a kiosk across from the bus stop and it's easier and cheaper to get on and off without counting out coins every time (no contactless payments on buses!). We will be back and I would recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Madeira, as well as the duplex suite if you go as a small family. Special mention to the housekeeping service for the 'fun' turndown of my daughters bed every night, and to Lisbeth, the hotel services manager, who greeted us by name and with a smile every time!

My experience at this hotel was truly exceptional. From the moment I arrived, the staff was warm, welcoming, and incredibly attentive. The check-in process was smooth, and I was pleasantly surprised by the cleanliness and elegance of the room — everything was spotless and beautifully designed. The location is perfect, with easy access to nearby attractions, restaurants, and public transportation. I especially appreciated the peaceful atmosphere and the stunning views from the room and common areas. Breakfast was a highlight every morning — a wide variety of fresh, high-quality options that catered to all tastes. The service was efficient and always with a smile.

This was the second time my family and I lodged at a Pestana Hotel. The first time it was the Promenade and we had a great experience. This time we decided to try another Pestana hotel. We were not at all disappointed. Our experience was amazing. We will certainly return.

Great service! Perfect location to walk around Funchal. Rooms & view from room are amazing!

Fabulous hotel. Lovely rooms. Great staff. On the waters edge with lovely view. Plenty of restaurants within walkable distance Good bus service into Funchal